University of Delaware Police Department, Cadet, Ongoing

Anticipated Start Date: Ongoing 

Estimated Pay: $15 an hour

Number of Jobs Available: based on need 

Schedule: There are a variety of assignments available throughout the day and night; however, most schedule shifts extend past midnight. Employment requires a minimum of two shifts per week, and all new hires should expect at least one permanent shift on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night.

Location: 413 Academy Street

About the department / center:

UDPD’s Cadet Program staffs approximately 40 part-time employees with varying levels of interest in law enforcement and public service. Cadets serve as the “eyes and ears” of campus, supporting daily University safety initiatives and contributing to a secure and trusted campus environment.

Primary Responsibilities:

Cadets assist UDPD and the University community through high-visibility foot patrols, HML front desk security, safety escorts, building security checks, supplemental event security, blue light phone testing, and other duties as assigned. Cadets work closely with the Police and Security Divisions in the department, gaining firsthand experience operating within a structured public safety environment while learning the responsibilities of University Police. Cadets receive hands-on training, priority access to ride-alongs, and unique opportunities to build professional connections within the department.

The program emphasizes leadership, accountability, professionalism, integrity, and sound decision-making. We seek students who are dependable, motivated, and committed to earning and maintaining the trust of the department and the community we serve.

There is opportunity for promotion to Supervisory Cadet positions based on job performance, experience in all facets of Cadet duties, and demonstrated leadership.

There are a variety of assignments available throughout the day and night; however, most schedule shifts extend past midnight. Employment requires a minimum of two shifts per week, and all new hires should expect at least one permanent shift on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night.

Many former Cadets have gone on to careers in law enforcement and public safety, and the program provides valuable experience for students pursuing those career paths.

Qualifications:

• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing and interact well with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to drive motor vehicles.
• Ability to resolve customer complaints and concerns.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow specific instructions and procedures.
• Ability to understand and follow safety procedures.
• Ability to detect problems and report information to appropriate personnel.
• Skill in utilizing building security and lock systems and procedures.
• Ability to use computing equipment related to the University Police Department operations.

Special requirements:
• Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license.
• Must also pass a background investigation including fingerprinting, driving record, and criminal history.

Environmental Factors/Occupational Exposures:
• The primary physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in both extreme heat and cold conditions, as well as conditions that are wet/humid, dry and during times when temperatures are below 32°F for more than one-hour periods.
• The employee may be required to bend, squat, stretch, stand, walk, and run for prolonged periods of time.

Hiring Timeline:

This is an ongoing, or evergreen, position that requires continuous hiring throughout the year to backfill vacancies or bring on additional support as needed. Applications will be reviewed, and interviews and offers extended, only when there is an active need for recruitment. Applicants will be contacted based on the timing and availability of open positions.

For undergraduate student applicants:

Eligibility for Undergraduate Student Employment

Applicants must be undergraduate students at the University of Delaware. Work study eligibility can be found here. Applicants who are not enrolled as undergraduate students at the University will not be considered for this position. Employment Limitations and Exceptions

For graduate student applicants:

Eligibility for Graduate Student Employment

Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate program at the University of Delaware and be in good academic standing. To be considered for additional on-campus employment, applicants combined on-campus employment, including teaching, research and graduate assistantship, must not exceed 29.5 hours per week.

Graduate students on contract may hold additional employment, on campus or off, up to 29.5 hours per week total without approval by the student’s program, the student advisor or the Graduate College. However, graduate students on contract are encouraged to discuss additional employment with their advisors to avoid any situations that might hinder timely progress toward the degree.