Get fit, get paid,
before the academy!
The Law Enforcement Aide Program (LEAP) is designed to prepare and support aspiring police cadets who are committed to joining the ranks of law enforcement but need additional time to meet physical entrance standards. LEAP has proven to be a successful stepping stone — increasing the number of cadets in our academy classes and empowering participants to achieve their goals.
Pay & Benefits
LEAP participants earn $19.75 per hour through a temp agency while building the fitness and professional experience needed for the academy.
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LEAP Hourly Pay
$19.75 / hour
- LEAP Hourly Pay $19.75
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Core Benefits
- Get paid $19.75/hour through a temp agency while preparing to meet physical entrance standards.
- From 8AM to 2PM, gain real insights into law enforcement through administrative duties.
- Spend 1.5 to 2 hours each afternoon in dedicated PT — and get paid the whole time.
- LEAP is designed to get you across the finish line and into an APD academy class.
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Incentive Pay
- Hourly Pay $19.75 via partner temp agency
- Weekly Hours Up to 40 (Mon–Fri)
- Daily Schedule 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Paid Fitness 1.5–2 hours daily PT
Who Can Apply
LEAP is open to aspiring APD cadets who are committed to law enforcement but need additional time to meet physical entrance standards.
Eligibility
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Must be committed to becoming an APD police officer
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Must be available Monday through Friday, 8AM to 4PM
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Must be ready to participate in daily physical training
Your Commitment Matters
Your Commitment Matters
LEAP is designed for individuals who are ready to commit to a career in law enforcement. If you're motivated, coachable, and willing to put in the work, LEAP will help you get there.
How to Join LEAP
Getting started is simple. Contact APD Recruiting to learn more and find out if LEAP is right for you.
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1
Contact APD Recruiting at (505) 343-5040 or email apdrecruiting@cabq.gov
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2
Learn if LEAP is right for you and confirm program availability
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3
Complete required paperwork through the partnering temp agency
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4
Start your LEAP journey and begin preparing for the academy
Start Strong
LEAP gives you the time, training, and support to build the fitness and professional foundation needed to succeed in the APD academy — and beyond.
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Hourly Pay
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Max Hours / Week
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8AM – 4PM
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Paid PT Hours Daily
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about APD's Law Enforcement Aide Program.
How much does LEAP pay?
$19.75 per hour through a partnering temp agency, up to 40 hours per week.
Who is eligible for LEAP?
Anyone committed to becoming an APD police officer who needs additional time to meet physical entrance standards. You must be available Monday through Friday, 8AM to 4PM.
What does a typical LEAP day look like?
You’ll complete administrative duties from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, then spend 1.5 to 2 hours in paid physical training before the end of your shift.
How do I apply for LEAP?
Contact APD Recruiting at (505) 343-5040 or email apdrecruiting@cabq.gov to learn more and confirm program availability.
Get Started
Your Academy Journey Starts Here
Take the first step toward becoming an APD officer. LEAP is designed to prepare you, support you, and help you succeed — while paying you along the way.