Louisiana State Police

Louisiana State Police

Detailed listing

Delivery

In person source value: In-Person

Length

About 22 to 26 weeks source value: 151 - 180 days

Branches

Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, Space Force

Target MOCs

All

Career field

Community and Social Service, Computer and Mathematical, Legal, Life, Physical, and Social Science, Military Specific, Protective Service

Summary

The Louisiana State Police (LSP) SkillBridge Cadet Program provides eligible transitioning service members the opportunity to attend the Louisiana State Police Training Academy as part of their final months on active duty. This immersive, full‑time program places participants directly into a structured, paramilitary academy environment where they train alongside LSP cadets and receive hands‑on instruction in the core competencies of state‑level law enforcement. Through this SkillBridge pathway, participants gain firsthand experience in areas such as patrol procedures, Louisiana criminal and traffic law, emergency vehicle operations, firearms training, defensive tactics, report writing, physical fitness, crisis response, and professional ethics. Each Intern attending the LSP Academy will proceed alongside a traditional LSP cadet, thereby gaining an in‑depth understanding of the expectations, demands, and culture of the Louisiana State Police. Participation allows transitioning military members to apply their discipline, leadership, and operational experience in a public‑safety context. Completion of the SkillBridge Academy experience does not obligate participants to seek employment with LSP, but those who choose to do so may be guided through the agency’s hiring and post‑academy training processes. This opportunity is available to active-duty personnel who meet DoD SkillBridge eligibility requirements and receive command approval.

Eligibility

Requirements to Become a Louisiana State Trooper: Be a United States Citizen. Meet one of the following criteria: Two (2) years of experience as a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Level 1 (or out-of-state equivalent) certified peace officer in a full-time position, whose job duties include armed duty with the power of arrest; orA minimum of sixty (60) semester hours from an accredited college or university, (must provide transcript or degree); or Any two (2) year combination of Options 1 and 2 above, whereby thirty (30) semester hours will be equivalent to one (1) year of experience; or Three (3) years of continuous active military duty in the United States Military, (must provide a DD-214 or letter from current commanding officer verifying service), effective October 1, 2001.Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language. Must possess a high school diploma or equivalency. Must be at least twenty-one (21) years old at time of application. Must possess a valid Louisiana Driver's License at time of appointment. Must pass physical examination and physical fitness test. Must submit to a drug screen and a risk assessment. An applicant will be disqualified if there are any indictments or bills of information pending against him in which he is charged with a felony, or if he has been convicted within the past three (3) years of hit and run or driving while intoxicated. An applicant who has been convicted of a felony will be disqualified until relief from the disabilities imposed by the state and federal law is granted.*Copy of POST certification must be provided with application

What the work involves

An LSP SkillBridge Cadet is an entry-level trainee enrolled in the Louisiana State Police Training Academy. Cadets undergo a comprehensive, paramilitary-style training program designed to prepare them for commissioning as Louisiana State Troopers. This role requires commitment, discipline, physical fitness, and the ability to operate in a high‑stress, structured learning environment. Key Responsibilities • Participate fully in all academy training activities, coursework, and evaluations. • Learn and apply Louisiana criminal, traffic, and constitutional law. • Develop proficiency in firearms handling, defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operations, and officer-safety procedures. • Demonstrate competency in physical fitness, drill and ceremony, and stress-management techniques. • Complete classroom instruction, examinations, practical exercises, and scenario-based training. • Maintain professionalism, integrity, and adherence to LSP policies, standards, and the Academy code of conduct. • Work effectively as part of a team and follow instructions from Academy staff and instructors. • Prepare for transition into field training and the responsibilities of a commissioned Louisiana State Trooper. Minimum Qualifications • Must meet all Louisiana State Police hiring requirements. • Must successfully pass background checks, medical and psychological evaluations, and physical fitness assessments. • Must possess a valid driver’s license and be eligible for employment in the State of Louisiana. • Must demonstrate strong moral character, sound judgment, and the ability to learn and apply complex material. Preferred Attributes • Prior military, law enforcement, or public‑safety experience. • Strong communication and problem‑solving skills. • Ability to work in a disciplined, team‑oriented environment. • Dedication to public service and community safety. Working Conditions • Highly structured training environment with early hours, physical demands, and strict performance standards. • Exposure to strenuous physical activities, weapons training, and real‑world law enforcement scenarios. • Requires long periods outdoors and in varying weather conditions. Career Path Upon successful completion of the Training Academy and all associated requirements, Cadets become Level 1 POST-certified, commission as Louisiana State Troopers, and begin their field training assignment within the agency.

Locations

• AK