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The Minnesota State Patrol is looking for new troopers and is ready to pay you over $65,000 a year-- and you don't have to have any law enforcement experience to join the ranks.

Growing up, I REALLY wanted to be a police officer. My dad was an officer for over 30 years in my hometown back in Wisconsin, and seeing him in his police uniform every day and driving that squad car with all the lights, bells and whistles on it was pretty cool when I was a little kid.

And even though the bug to be on the radio bit me and took me down a different path, I still very much appreciate the service that my dad-- and ALL law enforcement officers-- provide each and every day to keep us safe and help us out when we most need it. I've talked to many officers over the years, and many say the same thing: it's not so much a job, as it is a calling.

And if you think that calling might be for you, the Minnesota State Patrol wants to hear from you. They're looking for new recruits to join the nearly 600 state troopers already protecting the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and their annual hiring campaign is underway right now-- but ends this Sunday, September 19th.

You don't necessarily need to be a current law enforcement officer, either. As long as you have a two or four-year degree (in any discipline), you can apply for the State Patrol's Law Enforcement Training Opportunity.

And, if you're selected, they'll pay you while you train. The State Patrol's website explains:

While attending the Trooper Candidate School, trainees are compensated at the base trooper salary which is $65,499/year or $31.49/hour. Room and board is provided at no cost. Top pay for State Troopers is $87,920 and is reached after 8 years.

But you have to hurry, though, as applications are set to close this Sunday, September 19th. You can find out more about how to apply HERE.

Now if working as a trooper with the Minnesota State Patrol isn't quite something you think you'd enjoy-- but you're still looking for a different job-- keep scrolling to check out the list of the 30 different jobs that pay the most here in Minnesota!

Listen to Curt St. John in the Morning
weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m. on Quick Country 96.5

MORE TO EXPLORE: The 30 Highest Paying Jobs in Minnesota

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