The Pathways to Policing Program is designed to bring non-traditional candidates into the field of law enforcement, thereby removing barriers for those who wish to enter the career. Specifically, candidates with cultural competency skills and tools and those with experience living or working with culturally diverse populations will be given preference in order to more closely align departments with the communities they serve. Individuals looking for a new career path and a way to make a difference in their communities are encouraged to apply. - Please note that meeting deadlines is an essential part of the selection process. Failure to meet specified deadlines may result in disqualification from consideration for this position. - CITY VALUES & EXPECTATIONS - Models and contributes to a positive work environment, culture of communication, engagement and safety. Communicates effectively and respectfully with employees and the general public, including but not limited to those of diverse racial, ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds. Works cooperatively as a member of a team; develops and maintains effective working relationships with diverse coworkers and community members; consistently brings a high level of self-awareness and empathy to all personal interactions. Embraces the City’s shared values and contributes towards accomplishing the City’s vision and goals by being creative, innovative, continuously learning, and communicating clearly. HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS - Successful applicants will be hired as police trainees by a participating police agency. This is a full-time position with a starting wage of $26.30 per hour, plus insurance and pension benefits. As a police trainee, individuals will attend 40 hours a week of college coursework and training at Hennepin Technical College in Brooklyn Park, MN, for approximately 22 weeks and then take the licensing exam for police officers. All course fees and equipment are provided and paid for. Upon graduation and successful completion of the licensing exam, trainees will be promoted to probationary sworn police officers and begin their career in law enforcement just like any other new officer. NOTE - This program effort aims to provide a non-traditional pathway to a career in law enforcement. ANTICIPATED TIMELINE - May 18th to June 3rd: Participating agencies post Pathways to Policing job posting. June 11th and 12th: Tentative First Round Interviews. June 22nd and 23rd: Tentative Second Round Interviews. July - August: Background Investigations, Conditional Offers, Psych/ Physicals/ Drug Tests. September: Candidates hired, and classes begin at Hennepin Tech Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL DUTIES - Attend and actively participate in the identified education and skills program. Complete all course work associated with the program. Maintain appropriate physical conditioning to ensure successful completion of the skills training component. Upon completion of training program, successfully attain POST licensure eligibility. Agree to provide an employment commitment of at least two years as a law enforcement officer. Conditional employment offers will be extended to police trainees for the period of time required to complete the aforementioned accelerated training/skills program. Successful completion of the program will result in a change in employment status to probationary police officer Minimum/ Desirable Qualifications MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS No previous police experience is required. Must have a 2-year or 4-year degree from a regionally accredited institution in any discipline as of June 3rd, 2026 (Must attach a copy of the degree to application)Must be a U.S. Citizen. Must possess a valid driver's license, or ability to obtain. Must have no felony convictions. Must NOT have completed a MN Skills program or taken the MN POST or reciprocity exam. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS - Experience living or working with culturally diverse populations. We seek individuals who will assist us in serving our very diverse communities. Priority will be given to candidates who have cultural competency skills and knowledge, and community engagement experience that can be applied to police work. Ability to speak a second language, in addition to English that has a recognized presence in the community. (Spanish, Somali, Vietnamese, Chinese Mandarin, Cambodian, etc.)