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As a police officer, you develop valuable technical skills and soft skills like leadership and communication. These skills can open doors to new career opportunities, whether you decide to stay in law enforcement or explore other industries. It’s important to understand your options to find a secondary career path that matches your interests and abilities.
This article highlights career options for police officers who are considering a change after leaving the force.
If you’re thinking about switching careers after being a police officer, this list can guide you through some available job options. For the latest salary details, click on the salary link next to each job title.
1. Security guard
- Average national salary: $34,101 per year
- Primary duties: A security guard is responsible for patrolling and protecting public or private buildings to prevent crimes or damage. Former police officers can transition into this role to continue serving and protecting while helping to deter illegal activities. Their duties include:
Their main tasks include:
- Verifying visitor credentials.
- Observing security camera footage.
- Protecting areas during emergencies.
- Detaining individuals involved in illegal activities.
Security guards notify and collaborate with local authorities if any criminal activity happens on the premises.
2. Private investigator
- The national average salary: is $47,628 annually.
- Primary duties: A private investigator (PI) collects information and evidence for clients. This role is similar to police work and may require working with law enforcement. To work as a private investigator, a license is needed.
Their main tasks include:
- Performing background checks.
- Watching individuals to gather evidence.
- Speaking with people to collect information.
- Searching public or court records online.
Businesses, law firms, and private individuals often hire private investigators to help with investigations or legal matters.
3. Crime scene investigator
- The average annual salary: in the country is $47,537.
- Primary duties: A Crime Scene Investigator (CSI) or crime scene technician is a law enforcement professional responsible for collecting and managing evidence at crime scenes. Officers who are interested in investigative work may take on this role within the police department.
Key responsibilities include:
- Responding to and securing crime scenes to ensure safety and preserve evidence.
- Gathering and safeguarding physical evidence at crime scenes.
- Taking evidence to forensic labs for analysis.
- Maintaining thorough records of all evidence.
Some crime scene investigators work in forensic labs to perform tests, while others focus on collecting evidence at crime scenes.
4. Personal trainer
- The average annual salary: in the country is $49,966.
- Primary duties: A personal trainer assists clients and groups with workouts and exercise routines. This career could be a great fit for former police officers who are passionate about fitness and health. Although there are no strict educational requirements, obtaining certification as a personal trainer is highly recommended. Additionally, CPR and AED certifications are often required to ensure client safety.
Key responsibilities include:
- Designing customized fitness programs.
- Inspiring and motivating clients.
- Demonstrating exercises and proper use of equipment.
- Providing diet and nutrition guidance.
5. Adjunct professor
- National average salary: $39,810 per year.
- Primary duties: An adjunct professor teaches students at colleges and universities, typically on a part-time basis, earning payment per credit hour each semester. Former police officers can transition into this role to teach courses on criminal justice or related topics. This role typically requires a master’s degree, and candidates may also pursue additional training in teaching.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing lesson plans and course materials.
- Presenting lectures.
- Giving assignments and coursework.
- Evaluating exams and essays.
6. Correctional officer
- annual salary: across the nation is $39,810.
Primary duties: Correctional officers are vital law enforcement professionals who oversee inmates in state prisons, local jails, and federal facilities. They ensure the safety and security of individuals serving sentences or awaiting trial, maintaining order and discipline within the justice system. Similar to police officers, they enforce rules and regulations to promote a secure environment, contributing to inmate rehabilitation and public safety. Their role is essential in upholding the integrity of the justice system.
Key responsibilities include:
- Performing searches within cells and among inmates
- Managing conflicts between inmates and between inmates and officers
- Documenting inmate behaviour and incidents
7. Parole officer
- The average annual salary in the country is $41,185.
- Primary duties: A parole officer assists individuals who have been released from prison, helping them reintegrate into society. This role often appeals to former police officers. It generally requires a bachelor’s degree in fields like criminal justice or social work, along with specialized training.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting home or workplace visits
- Helping parolees secure employment or educational opportunities
- Tracking the progress and living conditions
- Linking parolees to rehabilitation resources
8. Victim advocate
- The average annual salary in the country is $41,847.
- Primary duties: A victim advocate offers assistance to individuals impacted by crime. This position typically demands a degree in a relevant field like criminal justice. Victim advocates may be employed by law enforcement agencies or legal professionals.
Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting victims by accompanying them to court
- Helping victims complete paperwork and forms
- Clarifying legal procedures
- Referring victims to valuable resources
- Victim advocates
9. Intelligence analyst
- The average annual salary: in the country is $42,995.
- Primary duties: For government agencies such as the FBI, CIA, or NSA, and private organizations. This position usually demands a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as cybersecurity, computer science, or political science.
Key responsibilities include:
- Gathering information
- Monitoring technology and communication devices
- Creating reports to enhance security measures
- Managing intelligence operations
- Conducting interviews with witnesses
10. Firefighter
- The average annual salary: in the country is $46,220.
- Primary duties: A firefighter combats fires to safeguard people, property, and the environment. Police officers looking to continue serving their community might consider transitioning to this role. Becoming a firefighter requires training at firefighting academies, with many also obtaining certification as emergency medical technicians (EMTs).
Key responsibilities include:
- Operating equipment
- Conducting inspections
- Delivering emergency care
- Educating the public
Conclusion
Transitioning from a police officer to a new career can be a fulfilling experience, utilizing your skills in leadership, communication, and problem-solving. Whether you pursue a law enforcement-related role, such as a private investigator or correctional officer, or explore a different field like a personal trainer or firefighter, there are plenty of opportunities ahead. Reflect on your interests and the skills you wish to apply in your next career. With the proper training and preparation, you can successfully embark on a new professional journey that continues to make a positive impact.
