Protective Services · Maintain order and protect life and property by enforcing local, tribal, state, or federal laws and ordinances
This profile is intended as career exploration guidance based on federal labor data. Actual job requirements, salaries, and opportunities vary by employer and location.
Entry Salary
$18–22k
First 1–2 years
Peak Salary
$24–28k
10+ years experience
Job Outlook
+3% · Stable
Retirement wave creating openings as experienced officers leave the force. Departments actively recruiting with signing bonuses in many cities.
Time to Start
2–4 years
College degree typical
Salary data sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2024. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, employer, and specialization.
Entry-Level Officers
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
Experienced Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
Senior Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
Director of Protective Services
You prioritize Achievement
This career is strongly aligned with Achievement — a core work value that shapes how people approach their career decisions.
You're strong in Speaking
Speaking is a top skill for this career, and it plays to what students like you naturally do best.
Good fit for your timeline
This career typically requires some college or a registered apprenticeship, which matches common student preparation goals.
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