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Police Officer Job Description
The primary duty of sheriffs and police officers is to enforce the law. They help the community fight criminals by making arrests, assisting people with emergency situations, investigating crimes, helping prosecute criminals by collecting and securing evidence, testifying in court, and writing detailed reports.
Police officers generally work in towns or cities, but deputies have authority in rural areas where no police departments are located. Police officers often work in specialized areas in bigger cities including rape, homicide, and traffic. In rural areas and smaller communities, sheriff's deputies and police officers must be able to respond to a wide spectrum of emergencies and situations. This is due to the employment of fewer law enforcement workers because of lower crime rates in these areas.
Education
Educational requirements needed to begin a career as a sheriff's deputy or police officer differs in each area. Larger cities and communities often require a four-year degree in criminal justice. A high-school education is the only requirement in some small communities. However, the majority of places are now requiring formal job training, commonly an associate degree. Students take courses in criminal investigation, administration, the study of criminal law, corrections, the criminal justice system, and community relations. Additional training is provided at a federal or state law enforcement academy after an officer is hired.
Special Skills
To become a law enforcement officer, excellent communication skills, good judgment and decision-making skills, and keen listening skills are necessary. Officers must be able to write concise and coherent reports that will be understood in court. Background knowledge in accounting, computers, weapons, business, special driving skills, and foreign languages is useful. Law enforcement officers must also be in good physical condition possessing strength, dexterity, and good vision.
Salary and Benefits
Police officers entering the field can expect to earn on average between $22,000 and $26,000; however, some areas pay as low as $18,000. After six years of service, police officers earn an average salary of $34,000 or more for those who climb the later in their field. Life insurance, medical benefits, and retirement plans are offered by the majority of police departments.
Working Conditions
Police officers and sheriff's deputies perform duties anywhere in his area of jurisdiction. Officers may spend time in an office writing reports; helping with community events; patrolling a standard beat; visiting courts, businesses, and jails; and working as a school resource officer. Law enforcement officers usually work 40-hour weeks with occasional overtime. Working in law enforcement can be physically demanding, stressful, and dangerous in some areas.
Career Outlook for Police Officers
As crime rates continue to increase nationwide, police officers and sheriff's deputies will be increasingly needed. Unfortunately, budget restrictions lower the number of job openings available.
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