This year's exam is on Jan. 25, but those interested in taking the test must register at police headquarters before the Jan. 16 deadline.
SPRINGFIELD — Anyone between the ages of 17 to 23 is eligible to sign up for an upcoming exam to become a cadet with the Springfield Police Department.
The cadet program, the equivalent of a full-time, paid internship, is widely viewed as an inside track to becoming a future Springfield police officer. Many cadets typically earn criminal justice degrees and pass state civil service exams before becoming police officers.
This year's exam will be held on Saturday, Jan. 25, in the cafeteria of the High School of Science and Technology in Springfield. But before anyone can take the exam they must first register at the police station clerks' office, located on the second floor of headquarters at 130 Pearl St. Registration is Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and runs until Jan. 16.
Those interested in registering for the test must do so in person (someone else can't register for you). They also must bring a valid driver's license or school ID and two No. 2 pencils.
On Exam Day, Jan. 25, those taking the test must sign in at the high school between 8 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. The exam begins promptly at 9 a.m. and is scheduled to end by 1 p.m.
Police officials have asked potential cadets to arrive on time for registration, noting that anyone who's late will be turned away. And anyone who completes the test before 1 p.m. will be asked to leave school grounds once they're finished.
The job of "Police Cadet" is a full-time, paid, administrative position within the Springfield Police Department with a starting hourly salary of $12. Cadets typically perform clerical work and other duties at police headquarters.
More information is available by going to the department's Facebook page or by calling the office of Springfield Police Commissioner William Fitchet at (413) 787-6313.