Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
Maintain order and protect life and property by enforcing local, tribal, state, or federal laws and ordinances. Perform a combination of the following duties: patrol a specific area; direct traffic; issue traffic summonses; investigate accidents; apprehend and arrest suspects, or serve legal processes of courts. Includes police officers working at educational institutions.
SOC: 33-3051.00
Common Job Titles
DeputyDeputy SheriffPatrol OfficerPolice Officer
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
666,990
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $47,640 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $115,280 |
| Workers on average earn | $79,320 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Public Safety and Security4.8/5
- Law and Government4.8/5
- English Language4.3/5
- Psychology4.1/5
- Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft Word
Technology Skills
Computer aided composite drawing softwareComputer aided dispatch softwareCorel WordPerfect Office SuiteCrime mapping softwareDatabase softwareDesignWare 3D EyeWitnessESRI ArcViewEmail software
Tools & Equipment
35 millimeter camerasAll terrain vehicles ATVAudio recording equipmentAutomated external defibrillators AEDBase station radiosBiohazard suitsBlood collection kitsBody armor