- Home
- Departments
- Police Department
- MPD Careers
- Police Cadet
Police Cadet
Become a Police Cadet
The Midland Police Department is looking for motivated and courageous individuals to join our team as police cadets. With a focus on safety, service, and integrity, you’ll receive top-tier training, competitive pay, and the chance to make a real difference every day. If you're driven by a passion for public service and want to contribute to the safety of our community, consider a career with us and help shape a safer, stronger Midland.
Get Started
1. Complete the Eligibility Survey
Start by completing our online eligibility survey to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for the Police Recruit position. If you qualify, a member of the Midland Police Department recruitment team will reach out to you with next steps on how to apply.
2. Physical & Written Exam
Physical Exam: physical assessment includes a 1.5-mile run, 30 sit-ups, and 20 push-ups, with uniform standards for all applicants. Failing three consecutive assessments leads to a one-year testing ban. Bring a valid driver’s license, suitable clothing, and water. Testing is at Midland Police Range, 4214 FM 307, Midland, TX 79706.
Written Exam: given to applicants who pass the Physical Fitness Standards. It is a four-part law enforcement P.O.S.T. test covering Math, Reading, Grammar, and Writing. Calculators, dictionaries, and telecommunication devices, including watch alarms, are not permitted.
IMPORTANT: Failing 3 assessments leads to a 1 year testing ban.
Upcoming Testing Dates
Location: Midland Police Range, 4214 FM 307, Midland, TX 79706
Physical Testing Overview: 30 Sit-Ups, 20 Push-Ups, 1.5 Mile Run (16m:00s)
Dates: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 9 AM and Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 9 AM
3. Interview with Police Recruitment Team
After passing the physical and written tests, candidates will participate in an interview with our recruitment team to discuss your motivation, qualifications, and suitability for the role. This is an opportunity to showcase your commitment and alignment with our department’s values.
4. Background Check
Candidates must complete and return a Personal History packet by the specified deadline. The Police Department will conduct a comprehensive background check, verifying all details provided. Any omissions or falsifications will result in disqualification. Background investigators will reach out once they begin the process, which generally takes between one week and two months.
Education Requirements
- High School Diploma.
- Must complete a minimum of 12 college hours each fall and spring semester and attend assigned classes in a dedicated and timely manner.
- Must maintain a "C" or better in each class and a GPA of 2.0 to remain in the program.
- May work up to 30 hours a week during the school term and up to 1000 hours per calendar year.
- Can remain in the program until 60 college hours are completed with a GPA of 2.0 or higher.
- College hours must be from one of the following accreditation agencies:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
- Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Physical Testing Requirements
30 Sit-Ups, 25 Push-Ups, 1.5 Mile Run (14m:46s)
Additional Requirements
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- .Applicants must be between 18 and 20 years old
- Within six months of their 21st birthday and obtaining the required college hours, the applicant is expected to apply for and test for a police officer position with the department.
- Normal hearing, with uncorrected hearing loss not exceeding moderate.
- Ability to pass the Department’s Physical Assessment Standards.
- Valid Texas driver’s license at the time of employment.
- No felony convictions or Class B misdemeanors or higher in the past 10 years, and no domestic violence offenses. A clean record with no history of criminal or improper conduct or poor driving is required.
- For applicants with prior military or law enforcement experience, an honorable discharge is required. All other discharges will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- Must meet all conditions necessary to obtain TCLEOSE Basic Peace Officer Certification.
- Must comply with the same standards of conduct, on and off duty, as those required for a police officer.
The current starting pay for a Police Cadet is $15 an hour. Additional incentives are not calculated for pay scale.
| Rank | Hourly |
|---|---|
| Police Cadet | $15 |
Additional pay can be earned as follows:
| Course / Degree Completed | Monthly |
|---|---|
| Associate Degree (any field) | $99.00 |
| Associate Degree (Police Sciences) | $250.00 |
| Bachelor's Degree (any field) | $180.00 |
| Bachelor's Degree (Police Sciences) | $400.00 |
| Master's Degree (any field) | $230.00 |
| Master's Degree (Police Sciences) | $500.00 |
|
|
|
| Intermediate TCOLE Certificate | $60.00 |
| Advanced TCL Certificate | $110.00 |
| Master TCL Certificate | $150.00 |
|
|
|
| Maximum Incentive Pay Cap | $1000.00 |
| Major Schools Pay-FBI National Academy and Law Enforcement Management Institute | $75 |
Longevity is paid at a rate of $6.00 per month per year of service.
College tuition reimbursement is also available to those officers wishing to continue their education. Employees have easy access to a community college and an upper-level university.
Last Updated: 02/03/2026