First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detective

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  Protective Service Occupations

First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detective

Also Called: Captain, Deputy Sheriff, Detective Sergeant, Lieutenant, Patrol Sergeant, Police Captain, Police Chief, Police Lieutenant, Police Sergeant, Shift Supervisor, Captain, Deputy Sheriff, Detective Sergeant, Lieutenant, Patrol Sergeant, Police Captain, Police Chief, Police Lieutenant, Police Sergeant, Shift Supervisor

What they do

Directly supervise and coordinate activities of members of police force.

$60,090
Starting Salary (2023)
$101,750
Median Salary (2023)
3.1%
Projected Job Growth
138,140
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Inform personnel of changes in regulations and policies, implications of new or amended laws, and new techniques of police work.
Explain police operations to subordinates to assist them in performing their job duties.
Cooperate with court personnel and officials from other law enforcement agencies and testify in court, as necessary.
Discipline staff for violation of department rules and regulations.
Train staff in proper police work procedures.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Enterprising
Business based Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work
Social
Working with people

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Integrity
Self-Control
Stress Tolerance
Dependability
Leadership
Attention to Detail

What key skills are needed for this job?

Active Listening
Speaking
Monitoring
Social Perceptiveness
Coordination
Critical Thinking

Expected Knowledge

Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Common Activities

Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

More Info

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