Laws were created to enact order and preserve safety within communities, and law enforcement officials are responsible for upholding these laws. Many think of police officers when they imagine a career in law enforcement; however, there are many other related law enforcement careers.
Learn about different ones, the needed educational paths to take, plus access salary information for each position.
ACCIDENT INVESTIGATOR
Accident investigators are needed for any type of vehicular accident — including cars, boats, and planes. It’s usually insurance agencies that employ accident investigators, and they prefer their recruits to have some background in law enforcement. Although a college degree isn’t necessary, most employers prefer their candidates to have a minimum of an associate degree. Since this field is highly competitive, a degree may give you an edge in the hiring market.
To become an accident investigator, you must first have your high school diploma or GED. You must have an eye for detail, since you will take charge of piecing accidents together, collecting and examining evidence, and even interviewing potential witnesses or victims. If you are organized and have strong people skills, you may find that you are a natural at accident investigation.
Licensing
Each state has their own licensing requirements for accident investigators. Check with your state to determine what exactly you may need to receive your license. Some states may require pre-licensing education in addition. There are also many states that require a certain number of continuing education credits per year to renew your license.
Salary and Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the average salary for accident investigators in 2022 was $73,380, with the top 10 percent earning an average of $102,630. The BLS also states that there is expected to be a slight decline in the demand for accident investigators of 3 percent by 2031. However, the career can still be a lucrative one, it just may benefit you to receive a degree and stay up-to-date on licensing and certifications.
ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
Animal control officers are hired by either the city or county to act and protect animals and their safe placement within communities. They may work in animal welfare, relocation, placement, etc. These individuals will handle cases ranging from abuse and neglect, to animal relocation in the case of dangerous stray animals.
To become an animal control officer, you must be a minimum of 18 years old with a high school diploma, or GED equivalent. Many employers will give potential hires a drug screening and a background check. It is also recommended that you have some experience working with animals. If you need to gain that experience, try volunteering at an animal shelter, veterinary hospital, or humane society.
Whichever area you choose to work with can determine the educational path you'll need to take. Having an associate or bachelor's degree in animal science, management, or related fields is highly recommended for those looking to become control officers. Expect to take classes involving animal nutrition, genetics, and behavior.
Certification
Many states, as well as employers, will require their new hires to have some form of certification. Two industries that offer these certifications for animal control officers are National Animal Care and Control Association, and The American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. You’ll need to pass with a ‘B’ or better, and expect to take continuing education courses in order to maintain your certification.
Salary
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that animal control officers in 2022 earned an average salary of $43,780, with the top 10 percent making $62,050.
COMPUTER FORENSIC INVESTIGATOR
In the digital age of AI, hackers, social media, and various other platforms, cyber security is especially important. Computer Forensic Investigators analyze digital footprints and collect evidence to investigate and resolve crime and cybercrimes. It can be a great career for someone who is savvy with technology and investigation.
Most Computer Forensic Investigators have bachelor’s degrees in computer sciences along with experience in criminal justice. There are some certificate programs available through trade schools and community colleges. With certificate programs, expect to take 15-20 credit hours. There will be courses such as computer systems security, web development, network administration, and information systems management, along with other related courses. Continuing education is a must for Computer Forensic Investigators, especially due to the fact that technology is in a constant state of refresh, as are cyber crimes. Computer Forensic Investigators need to stay one step ahead of internet fraud trends.
There are no licensing requirements specific to Computer Forensic Investigators but there are optional ones that are recommended if you want to get ahead in this competitive field. It’s important to note that some states do require Computer Forensic Investigators to be licensed as Private Investigators, so find out from your state if this is a necessary step you need to take. Optional certifications for Computer Forensic Investigators are the Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE), and the EnCase Certified Examiner.
CORRECTIONAL OFFICER
A correctional officer career isn’t for everyone, that’s for sure. The job of a corrections officer, or detention officer, can be very fast-paced and exciting, as they are in charge of keeping order amongst the detainees who are in a county jail or federal prison (where the correctional officer works depends on the training he or she has).
There is quite a bit involved in becoming a correctional officer. First, you must be 18 and the proud owner of a valid driver’s license, a high school diploma, or a GED. You must be a U.S citizen with no felony record. From there, you need to decide if you want to work on the federal or state level. To work in the federal government as a correctional officer, you will need a bachelor’s degree. Military experience does count toward your credits.
To be considered to work on the federal level, the Federal Bureau of Prisons requires 3 years of full-time experience working as a counselor, assistant, or supervisor, along with a bachelor’s degree. Training academy, a working knowledge of firearms operations, self defense, and institutional policies are taught to those in entry level positions.
Entrance exams may be required to get into a training academy, depending on your state. These exams may assess your physical strength, stamina, as well as your written/practical knowledge of legalities. There may also be a psychological exam.
Salary and Job Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that correctional officers in 2022 made an average salary of $54,760, with the top 10 percent making $82,600. As government employees, correctional officers tend to receive great benefits, such as excellent insurance, and retirement plans.
Take this pre-employment practice test to see if becoming a correctional officer suits you.
CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATOR (CSI)
You’ve seen them on shows, picking up a nearly invisible hair off the couch on the set of a crime scene, and then proceeding to solve the case based off of that and the other evidence that the team wouldn't have been able to collect without them. Crime scene investigators work in laboratories and crime scenes, and are often subject to harrowing scenes daily. To be a successful CSI agent, you must be tough.
To become a CSI, you will need at least a bachelor's degree in a related science course — these could be physical sciences, biology, or even forensic science. If you can, focus on areas of study involving toxicology, pathology, DNA, etc. Some investigators choose to earn a master's degree, which may make you more eligible for career advancement in the future, however, it is not typically required.
After graduating, applicants must receive on-the-job training and work under experienced investigators, learning correct techniques and methods of collecting and interpreting evidence. You may be required to pass a proficiency exam and/or earn certain licenses. Specific requirements vary depending on state/jurisdiction.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, crime scene investigators earned an average salary of $69,260 in 2022, with the top 10 percent making $104,330. The BLS also states that by 2031, the demand for crime scene investigators is expected to increase 11 percent, which is much faster than the national average.
DETECTIVE AND CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR
Detectives work with law enforcement agencies, corporations, and/or lawyers by collecting evidence to help solve a variety of different cases and crimes. A detective will interview witnesses and suspects alike, examine the records associated with the case, conduct suspect surveillance, and sometimes aid with arrests.
Detectives can choose to specialize in areas such as homicide, criminal investigation, computer crime, narcotics, cold cases, and more.
There are some soft skills necessary to for detectives to possess.
Continuing education for fish and game warden careers can help you advance in rank, such as a field training officer or in administration.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, fish and game wardens earned an average salary of $59,860 in 2022, with the top 10 percent making $85,300. The BLS also states that by 2031, there will be little to no change in demand for fish and game wardens.
K-9 OFFICER
Canine officers have the same responsibilities as the police, except for the fact that their partner is covered in fur and walks on four legs. The canine partner of the K-9 officer has been highly trained in multiple skills, such as sniffing out drugs, search and rescue, locating corpses, and even detecting explosives.
Most potential employers expect K9 Officers to have an associate or bachelor's degree — while some may prefer a master's in criminal justice. You will still need to undergo formal police training where you'll learn rules and regulations, laws on both the state and federal level, how to handle firearms, investigative techniques, and much more.
Like detectives, most K9 officers begin working as police officers. After you gain the experience you need, and if you qualify, you will be eligible to get transferred to a K9 unit.
You’ll have to complete the specialized training which will equip you to work efficiently and successfully with your canine partner. Courses such as Patrol Dog Officer handling, bomb and drug detection, and a training period with your new dog should be expected.
Canine officers are a specialized team of elite police. Salaries of canine officers are usually dependent on the time and experience they have. The average pay for canine officers is close to that of police officers, which, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, was averaged at $71,380 in 2022. With K9 Officers, other determining factors such as location, police force size, and job experience will also weigh into their pay.
PAROLE OFFICER
Typically working on the Federal or State level, the parole officer’s primary responsibility is to assist with people in custody, on probation, or parole. Parole officers help these individuals acclimate back into normal life and determine the best method of rehabilitation based on the person's needs. They oversee their clients' actions in a variety of ways — possibly through monitoring them, enrolling them into substance abuse counseling, connecting them with resources like job training, etc. Typically, they work with both the person and their family.
Most employers expect their candidates to have a bachelor’s degree in areas like psychology, social work, or criminal justice. You may also need one year of graduate work in a related field, especially if you want to work on the federal level, or in the administrative aspect of the field. After schooling, you will be trained; they type of training you receive will depend on varying state requirements.
Prospective parole officers will need to pass a certification exam. Candidates must be between 21-37 years of age, hold a valid driver’s license, pass a drug screening, a background check, and have a state-issued license to carry a weapon.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, parole officers earned an average salary of $64,920 in 2022, with the top 10 percent making $101,080.
POLICE OFFICER
Main article: Police Officer
In 1955, the Los Angeles Police Department, along with BEAT magazine, held a contest to come up with a Police Academy motto. The winner was “To Protect and To Serve”, which had been created by Officer Joseph S. Dorobek. This motto went on to become one of the most recognized ones in the nation. To Protect and To Serve is exactly what our police officers have sworn to do when entering into the field.
Police officers enforce laws on local, state, and federal levels. Unless they are working undercover, police officers are easily identifiable due to their uniforms and distinctive vehicles. Typical job duties of a police officer includes responding to calls (both emergency and non-emergency), conducting traffic stops, patrolling assigned areas, obtaining warrants and making arrests, investigating crime scenes, and performing administrative duties such as filling out paperwork.
There are some requirements for becoming an officer. You must have a high school diploma, or a GED equivalent. Some employers prefer candidates to have an associate or bachelor's degree. Typically, the route to take is through a criminal justice program or a police science degree program. Then, there is the background check and physical exam. Again, each state has their own process. There may be interviews held with friends and family to inquire about you, as a person. There will possibly be a credit review check, but there will definitely be a very well-rounded look into any criminal history. Expect a physical exam which will conclude whether or not you are physically capable of handling the job, as well as a psychological evaluation. You not only have to be physically capable to be a police officer, but mentally, as well.
Once you decide on your specialty field, whether it’s narcotics, organized crime, property, or any other, then you’ll go on to the Police Academy. The Police Academy is a necessary part of becoming a police officer. Each state has its own academy requirements.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, police officers earned an average salary of $71,380 in 2022, with the top 10 percent making $104,100. The BLS also states that by 2031, the demand for police officers is expected to increase 3 percent.
PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR
Private investigators work in many different settings, such as law firms, companies, and insurance firms. Some private investigators have years of relevant experience, while others just happen to find themselves falling into the line of work. Private investigators are key players in many criminal investigations, missing persons' cases, and other cases that need help being solved.
There are some important qualities necessary to those wanting to become private investigators. You should be inquisitive and resourceful by nature, a decisive problem solver, patient, have great attention to detail, be a great communicator and listener, and be open to changing your mind when presented with new information.
There are requirements that you must meet before becoming a private investigator. First, you'll either need your high school diploma or GED equivalent. Some departments may require an associate degree or bachelor's. Typically, private investigators undergo on-the-job training and begin with working as a police officer, in the military, or in a federal intelligence agency.
Each state has its own set of requirements when it comes to certifications and licensing for private investigators. So, it’s important to check with your area to learn more about specific certificates you may need.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, private investigators earned an average salary of $59,400 in 2022, with the top 10 percent making $92,660. The BLS also states that by 2031, the demand for private investigators is expected to increase 6 percent, which is around the national average growth rate for all careers. With increased crimes through the internet, as well as other types of fraud, the demand for private investigators should remain strong.
PROBATION OFFICER
Sometimes, offenders are given probation in lieu of jail time. With probation, a probation officer is assigned to the individual to ensure he or she follows the terms of their probation, and remains on track toward a healthy rehabilitation into society.
While they work on a case-by-case basis, the typical responsibilities of probation officers can range from meeting with a client's family or friends, maintaining paperwork, testing for drugs and/or other substances, connecting people with resources, and evaluating individuals to determine the best method of treatment possible.
Most federal probation officers are expected to have a bachelor’s degree, minimally. In some instances, a master’s degree may be necessary. Most employers will require a drug screening, background check, and competency exam prior to being considered for a probation officer position. There is also a certification exam on either the local or state level, depending on the location. The minimum age requirement to work as a probation officer is 21.
Federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies each have their own educational requirements, and they vary by location. Typically, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology, social work, criminology, or criminal justice would be the most recommended route to take.
There are a few important qualities a good probation officer should possess. Because probation officers are in constant contact with their probationers and their families, as well as other law enforcement, they should possess excellent communication skills. Probation officers need to be excellent at problem solving, decision making, and critical thinking, as well. Due to the fact that some of the cases will involve highly emotional subject matter, probation officers should prioritize their mental well-being throughout their career.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, probation officers earned an average salary of $64,920 in 2022, with the top 10 percent making $101,080. The BLS also states that by 2031, the demand for probation officers is expected to see little to no change.
SECURITY GUARD
Malls, banks, apartment buildings, and other establishments ensure their safety and security by hiring security guards. Security guards make sure there are no illegal actions taking place on the premise they are hired to survey. You’ll find security guards positioned behind a front entry desk or wandering around the area, keeping an eye on things.
Gambling surveillance officers also conduct the same security measures as security guards — just more specifically at casinos. They also use audio-visual equipment to monitor gambling tables and machines for any illicit activity.
If you’re considering a job as a security or gambling surveillance guard, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED. All 50 states require any type of security guard to have a license to carry a gun. Gambling surveillance officers do need to have knowledge on casino culture and games, along with an understanding of the equipment they work with. Drug tests and background checks are usually required.
There is not a formal education requirement for security guards. Most employers provide on-the-job training for their new-hire guards, which can be completed in a matter of a few weeks. However, most states require security guards to be licensed, and depending on your state, you may need additional certification or training hours.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, security guards earned an average pay of $36,700 in 2022, with the top 10 percent making $51,350. The BLS also states that by 2031, the demand for security guards is expected to see little to no change. Those with background in law enforcement will have an edge in the hiring process.
SHERIFF OR DEPUTY SHERIFF
As a sheriff, you’re responsible for your county or region's law enforcement. The position of sheriff is fast-paced, yet rewarding to the right person. Sheriffs work alongside other law enforcement officials to uphold law and order. Sheriffs may detain and arrest suspects, administer citations, deliver warrants, patrol areas, and appear in court.
Additional responsibilities include confiscating property, managing emergency situations, questioning witnesses, and working with detectives and other officials. There is risk involved in becoming a sheriff — they come into contact with dangers of the job on a daily basis.
Sheriffs are officials who are voted in. There are requirements for you to meet before you can run as a sheriff. First, you'll need to begin your career as a police officer. You'll also need a bachelor's degree, typically in a criminal justice or law enforcement program.
Depending on your jurisdiction, you'll need to have worked at least 1-5 years as a police officer. Once you've fulfilled these requirements, you should be able to file the necessary paperwork to run for county sheriff. If you're elected, you'll need to swear in your oath, and you may need to take a certification exam.
A deputy sheriff’s main purpose is to enforce law and order as they fight to prevent criminal activity in their county. Like a police officer, the deputy sheriff patrols assigned areas, investigates complaints and potential crimes, makes arrests, interviews all involved with a case, and testifies in court. Deputy sheriffs are usually hired by the county they work for, not elected, like sheriffs are.
To actually become a deputy sheriff, once all your training and education has been completed, there will be a background check, drug screening, and a physical test. The background check will show if you have any prior convictions you haven’t shared, and the physical test will make sure you’re healthy enough to act as a deputy sheriff.
TRANSIT AND RAILROAD POLICE
As a specialized police officer, a transit police officer is hired by transit companies such as railroads and buses. They investigate crimes committed towards or by passengers. Crimes such as drug use, fraud, assault, and robbery are all assigned to the transit or railroad police to handle. They either work directly from the transit company, or are from a specialized unit within the police force.
To begin training as a transit police officer, you must have your high school diploma or GED, and be at least 18 years old. Training is carried out through the local transit authority. Educational training requirements vary, some areas expect 1,000 hours while others only require 100 hours.
Necessary skills for transit police officers to possess are good physical strength and stamina, excellent communication skills, and exceptional perception and observational skills. There will be physical and psychological exams given to those entering careers as transit police officers.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, transit and railroad police earned an average salary of $76,380 in 2022, with the top 10 percent making $114,310. The BLS also states that by 2031, the demand for transit and railroad police is expected to increase 7 percent, which is about an average growth rate.