Pathways to Policing

City of Bloomington•Bloomington, MN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Pathways to Policing Program is designed to bring non-traditional candidates into the field of law enforcement by removing barriers for those who wish to enter the career. Candidates with cultural competency skills and experience living or working with culturally diverse populations will be given preference to align departments with the communities they serve. This program is for individuals looking for a new career path and a way to make a difference in their communities. Meeting deadlines is an essential part of the selection process; failure to meet specified deadlines may result in disqualification. The City values and expects employees to model and contribute to a positive work environment, communicate effectively and respectfully, work cooperatively as a team, and embrace the City’s shared values by being creative, innovative, continuously learning, and communicating clearly.

Requirements

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.

Nice To Haves

Experience living or working with culturally diverse populations.
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.).

Responsibilities

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 accelerated training/skills program.
Successful completion of the program will result in a change in employment status to probationary police officer.