First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives

Supervise and organize the daily operations of the police force.

Career Snapshot

ABOUT FIRST-LINE SUPERVISOR OF POLICE OR DETECTIVE CAREERS

A police officer's day might be packed with surprises. Police and detective supervisors assist officers in determining how to manage a variety of shifting situations while gathering the necessary resources. Sergeants, lieutenants, and police chiefs supervise the activities of the rest of the force. Police and detective supervisors develop schedules and provide investigators with direction and experience. They should be able to inspire and command respect from others. 

They assist with some police or investigation work, but their primary responsibilities are administrative in nature, such as assigning duties, monitoring and evaluating job performance, investigating and resolving personnel issues, and training staff. 

Most police and detective supervisors work a 40-hour week, but their shifts can be scheduled at any time of day or night, including weekends. They may be out in the field supervising police on the job if they are not behind a desk processing paperwork. 

These supervisors, like all police officers, face danger. Promotion through the ranks is nearly invariably the path to a supervisory post in a police department. This can be based on seniority, performance ratings, and written exam test scores. 

The availability of police jobs is determined by the degree of government spending on law enforcement. The demand for competent officers is projected to remain highest in metropolitan areas, where crime rates are greater. Inquire about long-term benefits when applying to a police academy, because while compensation for police officers may appear modest for the danger involved, many departments offer substantial retirement packages after several years of service. 

Working as a cop necessitates patience, tact, guts, and discipline. It is critical in every community, from rural crossroads to Times Square.

Employment Projections

Annual projected job openings Subscribe to see

Wages


Average Wages Subscribe to see

Characteristics

Comfort of the work setting
Critical decision making
Exposure to job hazards
Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Leadership
Level of responsibilities
Communication with others
Dealing and handling conflicts
Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Physical demands
Competition for this position

Activities

Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Know More
Documenting/Recording Information Know More
Getting Information Know More
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates Know More
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Know More
Making Decisions and Solving Problems Know More
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Know More
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others Know More

Areas of Study

Administration and Management Know More
Customer and Personal Service Know More
Education and Training Know More
English Language Know More
Law and Government Know More
Personnel and Human Resources Know More
Psychology Know More
Public Safety and Security Know More

Degrees

Colleges

Top Skills

Active Listening Know More
Coordination Know More
Critical Thinking Know More
Management of Personnel Resources Know More
Monitoring Know More
Reading Comprehension Know More
Social Perceptiveness Know More
Speaking Know More