Sheriff's CadetAt — County of Orange

The Orange County Sheriff’s Cadet Program (paid temporary position) provides valuable training and experience to those interested in a career in law enforcement.  In a training capacity and under direct supervision, Cadets perform a variety of progressive law enforcement related duties of greater responsibility. Incumbents in this position provides Sheriff’s Department personnel with assistance in record keeping and filing, assistance with equipment inventory and maintenance, assistance with inventory of supplies, and provide vehicle transportation. In addition, cadets must be service-oriented and possess knowledge of basic office practices, business English, including spelling, grammar, and punctuations.  Strong communication skills and the ability to read and understand laws, rules and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department policies and procedures. 

Tasks:

Duties may vary depending upon current project needs of the OC Crime Lab. Examples of duties may include observation of Forensic Scientists and Forensic Specialists to gain a better understanding of their individual job roles in the lab. Speaking with law enforcement personnel both in the field and in the office. Providing records/administration tasks related to ongoing projects.

Training:

At the time of hire, Cadets will attend a mandatory employer orientation with the OC Sheriff’s Department Professional Standards Division. Cadets assigned to the Orange County Crime Lab will have an additional orientation. All Cadets are expected to gain an understanding of accreditation practices, read and complete modules on Ethics and Criminal Law, Civil Law, and Testimony training. Training also includes completing assigned Health & Safety on-line course. Cadets assigned to the Crime Lab will be assigned for approximately a 6-month period and have an opportunity for job shadowing events throughout the varying sections of the crime lab. The sections fall under the 5 Bureaus of the Crime Lab and consist of Cal-ID, Criminalistics, DNA, Forensic Chemistry, and Identification. Additional training will be section specific.

Learning outcome:

By the end of the job assignment, the Cadet will have a better understanding of:
• OC Crime Lab policies and procedures
• Varying job assignments within the OC Crime Lab/Sheriff’s Department
• Education, job functions, and responsibilities required of personnel in OC Crime Lab/OC Sheriff's Department

The Cadets will also have had the opportunity to:
• Gain interpersonal skills
• Increase confidence serving in a professional work environment