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Public Service Police Officer
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$69 55,400+

What Does a Police Officer Do?

Police officers have a dynamic, ever-changing role in the community. Above all, they uphold the law and maintain order. They prevent and investigate crimes, enforce traffic laws, respond to emergencies and catch criminals. 

Police officers, who often start off as patrol officers, keep an area safe. They patrol their area in a car, on foot, on a bike or even on a horse. 

Officers work for city, county, state or federal governments, and their titles often change with the jurisdiction. The size of the region often determines the officer’s daily duties. For example, an officer working for a smaller municipality is more likely to have a broader variety of duties compared to an officer working on a larger police force.

The work is dynamic and rewarding, but it can also be dangerous. Keep reading to learn more about this in-demand career.

Female police officer stands by her patrol car
New police officers work in the patrol division before being assigned to a special unit. (Credit: John Roman Images/Shutterstock)

Responsibilities

  • Patrol the community
  • Respond to calls from the public through a dispatcher, including emergency and non-emergency situations
  • Conduct traffic control and enforcement
  • Arrest suspected criminals
  • Conduct preliminary investigations and collect evidence
  • Write detailed reports
  • Testify in court when needed
  • Focus on safety at all times

How to become a Police Officer: FAQs

The bottom line:

If you want to help your community, becoming a police officer is one of the best ways to do it. Policing puts you directly in contact with all elements of your community. Compassion and an ability to communicate well make this association a rich and rewarding part of the job. If this sounds like you and you’re ready to learn more, check out SkillPointe’s training offerings and get started on your next chapter. 

Officer Javier Arteaga holds a puppy in his squad car

What is it like to be a police officer?

Just because you see a police officer, it doesn't mean something's wrong, says Deputy Sheriff Javier Arteaga of the Merced County Sheriff's Office.

"A lot of people see police officers and think something bad has happened. That’s not always the case," he says. Just think about the number of times you see law enforcement present at community functions.

But no matter the circumstance, officers are there to help. That's one of the most satisfying parts of the job, he says.

Learn more about why he thinks being a police officer is such a rewarding career.

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