Job Description for a Police Chief
Police chiefs are appointed or elected law enforcement officials. Maintaining allegiance to their municipality, they design, manage, oversee and evaluate all law enforcement activities within their jurisdiction. They typically report directly to the mayor of their town or city.
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Job Responsibilities
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A police chief oversees, directs and plans all activities of the police department personnel in their municipality. They design and implement various law enforcement programs for their community and maintain field control during community emergencies.
Job Opportunities
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Every police force across the United States employs a police chief. They are either appointed or elected. Before receiving this job, however, they usually must have served as a police officer. In addition to being competent, they must also be regularly promoted. The typical organizational ascension of roles held is officer, corporal, sergeant, lieutenant and captain. Additionally, they might serve specialized roles, such as that of a detective. Those seeking to become an officer of the law can apply directly to the department of the municipality where they would like to work. Additionally, professional organizations such as the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the international Police Association provide resources to members and individuals looking to enter the field.
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Qualitative Requirements
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To become a police officer, candidates in most jurisdictions of the United States must be as least 20 years old and be a citizen of the country. They must also be physically fit, and have excellent vision, hearing and strength. Additionally, they must pass a criminal background screening. Candidates must also be competent written and oral communicators and critical thinkers. They must not be afraid of physical confrontation. They must exhibit bravery. They must also be able to behave rationally during a crisis.
Educational Requirements
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To become a police chief, a candidate must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, many municipalities require officers to possess four year degrees in criminal justice, police science or a related field of study. This is followed by 12 to 14 weeks of police academy training. After years of progressive service and promotions, police officers are either appointed or elected to the post of chief.
Average Compensation
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According to Salary.com, in 2009 the average police chief working in the United States earns an annual base salary of $95,147. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates the employment of police and detectives to increase by 11 percent within the decade of 2006 through 2016.
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References
Resources
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