Police job description

The job of a police officer is a valuable position in our society. I will highlight the requirements that an individual must possess to hold this prestigious position. Certain criteria must be used as a standard in hiring individuals that are sworn to uphold the laws of our states. Police officers have a power that ordinary citizens do not have and must be of great character to be trusted with this power.
Currently most agencies require a GED or high school diploma as prerequisites for becoming a police officer. Higher education or criminal justice classes are considered a plus for those applying. I believe that candidates for the position of police officer should have at least a two year degree in general studies. The reason I feel that college is necessary is to provide the officer more education specifically in the area of writing. Most police officers must be able to write detailed legible reports. Most of the pertinent skills will be acquired on the job out in the field as a police officer. The lowest 10 percent earned by police and sheriff's patrol officers in 2004 was less than $26,910 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $68,880. (Montaldo, 2009)
There is no discrimination regarding male versus female officers, females have proven to be worthy officers throughout the years. An applicant for police officer should ideally be in good physical shape and take care of themselves. Certain tests may also be done such as a lie detector and personality and behavioral tests to ensure the applicant is not interested in becoming an officer for devious reasons.
A thorough background check must be performed on the applicant to make sure that the applicant does not have any serious offenses on their record such as drug charges or domestic violence. The average age for applicants falls between the ages of 20 and 35. A series of physical tests are administered during the hiring process. This is to evaluate an applicant's strength, endurance and dexterity. Examples of the tests includes timed pushups, sit ups, a 1.5-mile run, arm and leg endurance tests, a 75-yard 'pursuit run,' and a side-step test. (Montaldo, 2009)
There are many reasons that people are drawn to the role as a police officer, general disdain for the rule breakers in our society, continuing a family tradition, and upholding social order while protecting the public. The job description of police officer has many different duties and obligations that come with the job. Police officers are looked up to as role models by most of society and they are the first people we call when we are in danger. Police as a whole generally stick together and have a sense of brotherhood about them, they have seen things that the common citizen may never see.


Being a police officer is more than just a job, I believe it is a lifestyle that most officers hold in high regard. Officers are not only upholders of the law but public servants, which means they do what needs to be done and so often more than they are required to do. I cannot put in to words how much respect I have for these men and women that put themselves in harm’s way daily so I can be safe. I can go about my daily life knowing that if I need them they will be there and keep myself and my family safe. Being an officer is not a job for everyone, but it is important to teach our children to respect not only the laws but the men and women that uphold them.