Career Information-Police Officer

Police Officer

Employment Prospects There are many different types of law enforcement. Police, detective or investigator, and there are several jobs in Federal Law Envorcement.

Training Requirements To become a police officer, you must complete a 16 week police academy and pass a written, physical test and the Cooper's Test. A college degree is not required but it makes you more knowledgable about your job. One must have a High School degree or GED. Although it is not required, I know several officers that do karate and other forms of martial arts. It makes them more confident in their ability to defend themselves.

Kiley Raica Period 1 11/4/09

Job Availability There is always a place for a police officer. There is never a time when one is not needed. However they are a limited number of jobs in this profession.

Earnings Levels The majority of people who work as police officers make anywhere between $35,000 and $47,740 a year. However those who work in Federal law enforcement can make between $60,000 and $131,000

Job Duties Police are responsible for keeping the public safe, enforce the law and arrest those who break it, give first aid to those who are injured, patrol areas on foot, horse, bike or vehicle, investigate traffic accidents, testify in court, investigate suspicious activities and safety hazards, gather information by interviewing witnesses and suspects, direct the flow of traffic, assist the public with solving problems and fighting crime, write citations or tickets for drivers who violate traffic laws. http://www.azcis.intocareers.org/info2.aspx?FileID=Occ&FileNum=100414&TopicNum=0

Working Conditions As a police officer, you are outside most of the time. Since you are outdoors, you are exposed to disease, infections and other contaminants. Being a police officer is one of the most dangerous lines of work. You have to have a high level of social contact, work well with others, and must be exact in there work because errors could result in serious injuries to yourelf or others. You are always dealing with angry, discourteous and sometimes violent people.