29 Exciting Criminal Justice Jobs [That Are Hiring]

The criminal justice field is a broad and varied area of work, offering many exciting opportunities for those seeking a career in law enforcement. From federal-level agencies to private security organizations, the criminal justice system provides a wide range of jobs with different qualifications, salaries, and benefits.

Therefore, understanding the criminal justice job market, education requirements, and career outlook in this field is essential for anyone considering pursuing a criminal justice career.

This article will provide an overview of the types of jobs in law enforcement available in the criminal justice sector as well as important information about the qualifications needed and salary ranges associated with each type. With this knowledge, readers will be able to make informed decisions about their future opportunities in the criminal justice field.

What Is Criminal Justice?

Criminal justice is a broad field of study and profession that works to ensure safety and justice in society. It encompasses a variety of different professions and organizations responsible for upholding the rule of law. This includes law enforcement agencies, courts, corrections, legal aid, and more. The criminal justice system also works with individuals who are victims of crime or injustice.

The goal of criminal justice professionals is to protect public safety by enforcing laws, apprehending criminals, prosecuting offenders, and providing support and services to victims. To do this, they work in various capacities within the system, including investigators, prosecutors, defense attorneys, correctional officers, probation officers, and judges.

Investigators are responsible for gathering evidence related to crimes as well as interviewing witnesses to help with prosecution cases. Prosecutors are responsible for representing the government in court proceedings against criminals, while defense attorneys represent defendants during trial proceedings.

Correctional officers oversee inmates in correctional institutions, while probation officers guide those on parole or probation outside prison. Finally, judges preside over trials and make decisions regarding sentencing guidelines based on the evidence presented to them by both sides of the case.

Each role within the criminal justice system is integral to providing public safety by upholding the rule of law. With this knowledge, readers can better understand what it takes to pursue a career as a criminal justice specialist and the different opportunities available within this field of study and profession.

Types Of Criminal Justice Jobs

The criminal justice field offers a wide variety of career opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement, corrections, or legal services. From federal-level law enforcement agencies to private security organizations, there are jobs available for all types of people with different levels of experience.

At the federal level, U.S Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for enforcing immigration laws and protecting U.S. borders from illegal entry. The CBP employs more than 21,000 agents who work at ports of entry, investigate cases involving customs violations, investigate drug smuggling cases, and patrol the nation’s borders by land and sea.

Agents must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as specialized training in firearms use and other aspects of border security operations. The average salary is $65,862 annually.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is another federal-level law enforcement agency that investigates serious crimes such as terrorism, cybercrime, financial fraud, public corruption, organized crime, and civil rights violations.

FBI agents must have an advanced degree, such as a master’s or doctorate in criminal justice or related fields, such as forensics science or criminology; some also require special training in investigative techniques or specialized fields, such as behavioral analysis or linguistics. Average FBI salaries are US$76,364 per year, depending on job type and experience level; bonus pay may be available based on performance reviews or promotions.

In addition to federal-level positions, there are also jobs available in local law enforcement agencies such as police departments and sheriff’s offices across the country that investigate crimes within their jurisdiction, including traffic accidents, violent crimes like murder and assault, and property offenses like burglary, theft, and vandalism.

They also provide community policing services to help prevent crime before it occurs. Police officers typically need at least an associate degree in criminal justice, while sheriffs typically need a bachelor’s degree; salaries vary by location but generally range from $58K to US$75K per year, with benefits including health insurance provided after completing the initial probationary period.

In addition to positions in law enforcement, there are also many positions related to corrections, such as:

• Probation officers who supervise individuals released from prison after serving sentences; parole officers who track offenders released early from prison on parole conditions;
• Corrections officers who oversee inmates within jails and prisons;
• Substance abuse counselors who provide counseling services to individuals struggling with addiction issues;
• Employment specialists/case managers who help ex-offenders find employment opportunities upon release from prison;
• Investigators who review cases concerning possible violations of parole/probation conditions; forensic scientists analyze crime scene evidence to help solve investigations and determine the cause or manner of death (autopsies);
• Youth counselors work with young offenders often referred by the court system (juveniles in detention centers, etc.;
• Mental health professionals provide counseling services to those suffering mental illnesses caused by trauma, etc.;
• Court administrators manage the day-to-day operations of courts to make sure proceedings are conducted timely fashion according to applicable laws/rules.

Salaries for these professionals range from $30K-$120K depending on position, education/experience requirements, qualifications sought by employer location, etc.

Finally, many private security companies hire individuals skilled in various areas ranging from protection details, corporate espionage investigations, retail loss prevention, surveillance investigations, and digital forensics computer network monitoring.

Private security personnel usually receive similar training to police officers, often specializing in certain areas in which particular companies may require additional skills, e.g., surveillance operations, driving, access control installation, etc.

Salaries for private security personnel vary greatly depending on the specific duties required. Employers often offer attractive benefits packages and incentive bonuses related to excellent performance opportunities to advance one’s career quickly through promotion to a different division of criminal justice.

Types Of Law Enforcement Agencies

Law enforcement agencies are responsible for protecting citizens and maintaining law and order. They come in three levels: federal, state, and local. Each level has its unique roles, responsibilities, and qualifications needed to pursue a career within that type of agency.

Federal-level law enforcement agencies are the most widely known, with the FBI being the largest and most prominent.

These organizations investigate transnational crimes such as terrorism, drug trafficking, and white-collar crime at a federal level. Other divisions include Alcohol Tobacco Firearms (ATF), US Marshals Service, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), as well as other smaller bureaus like the Secret Service or IRS Criminal Investigations Division.

At the state level, state police forces exist to enforce state laws while supporting local law enforcement units when required. These organizations are typically divided into branches such as highway patrol or investigations bureaus focusing on specific criminal activities or areas such as narcotics or homicides. Generally speaking, these bodies have similar powers to their federal counterparts but operate within their own state’s jurisdiction.

Finally, local law enforcement agencies consist of police departments and sheriff’s offices that work together to maintain public safety at a local level by patrolling neighborhoods and responding to 911 calls. Police officers are typically tasked with enforcing laws, arresting suspects, and investigating crimes, while sheriffs are more involved in civil matters such as serving warrants or providing court security services.

There is a wide range of qualifications needed for different law enforcement positions. Still, all require physical fitness tests along with written tests that assess problem-solving abilities and communication skills.

Depending on the position applied for, additional training may be required, which can include firearms training courses or specialized fields like forensic science technician training programs or mental health counselor certifications, etc. In addition, job seekers must meet legal requirements such as passing background checks before being hired for any job in law enforcement.

Federal Level Law Enforcement Agencies

Federal law enforcement agencies are responsible for safeguarding the safety of citizens across the nation. Therefore, agents working in these organizations must be able to think quickly and accurately when making decisions, as well as have strong communication and interpersonal skills. These agents can be found at several levels, from local police departments to state-level agencies such as highway patrol or corrections, to federal agencies such as the Department of Justice and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

They receive specialized training related to their duties, including firearms safety, tactical operations, evidence collection protocols, computer forensics analysis methods used in cybercrime cases, and more.

Additionally, they may provide support to local authorities on a case-by-case basis with tasks such as crime scene investigation or mental illness awareness workshops for police officers. Through this cooperation between federal-level law enforcement agencies and local authorities, citizens have access to resources that help keep them safe from crime on both a national and localized scale.

State And Local Level Law Enforcement Agencies

State and local law enforcement organizations fulfill a valuable purpose in communities across the United States. From patrol officers who respond to emergency calls to detectives, court officers, and more, these agencies are integral to keeping citizens safe.

The qualifications needed for a position vary by the agency but generally include having a high school diploma or equivalent, being 21 years old or older, passing drug and background tests, and demonstrating physical fitness.

Given the high demand for experienced officers, most states and local law enforcement have competitive job markets. Opportunities also exist to specialize in investigative services or community policing initiatives. Regarding career outlooks in this field, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook projects that employment of police officers will grow by 3% from 2021–2031.

Those interested in joining state or local level law enforcement may find better chances since these positions are more plentiful than those at the federal level; however, competition remains strong for jobs at federal level agencies such as FBI agents or Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

Therefore, it is important to understand the job requirements before taking on any position so that you can be sure it is right for you both professionally and personally.

Overall, pursuing a career in criminal justice can be incredibly rewarding no matter which path you choose—whether it be federal law enforcement or joining a smaller agency closer to home—and ensuring safety within our communities is an honorable endeavor worth considering!

Private Security Organizations

For those in pursuit of a career in private security, there are a variety of roles available both within the public and private sectors. Depending on ‌job requirements, education may range from a high school diploma to advanced certifications or degrees in criminal justice. Salaries for these positions also vary, but most average $38,000 annually and include benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and pension plans.

Before applying for any job within the private security field, it is important to research its demands; this includes understanding legal obligations such as passing background checks and having firearms safety training where necessary.

Familiarizing oneself with the services provided by their employer is also beneficial when working towards one’s desired career goals. The world of private security organizations provides a wealth of opportunities – from executive protection to asset protection – that are not always available through traditional law enforcement agencies.

With the right qualifications and research, anyone can pursue a successful career in this arena!

29 Job Opportunities In Law Enforcement

1. Police Officers And Patrol Officers

Police officers and patrol officers are responsible for enforcing laws, protecting citizens, and responding to emergencies. The average salary is US$57,000, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a police academy program.

2. Parole Officers

Parole officers are responsible for supervising criminals who have been released from prison. The average salary is US$62,000, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, or a related field.

3. Probation Officer

Probation officers are responsible for watching and providing guidance to individuals on probation or parole. The average salary is $56,000, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, or a related field.

4. Crime Scene Investigators (CSI)

Crime scene investigators are responsible for collecting evidence from crime scenes, analyzing the evidence, and documenting the scene. The average salary is $53,000, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or a related field.

5. Correctional Officer

Correctional officers are responsible for supervising and managing inmates in correctional facilities. The average salary is US$59,000, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a correctional officer training program.

6. Forensic Accountants

Forensic accountants are responsible for investigating financial crimes, analyzing financial records, and providing expert testimony in court. The average salary is $75,257, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field.

7. Border Patrol Agents

Border patrol agents are responsible for patrolling U.S. borders, enforcing immigration laws, and apprehending illegal immigrants. The average salary is $65,862, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a training program.

8. Homeland Security Personnel

Homeland Security personnel are responsible for protecting the United States from threats of terrorism and other security risks. The average salary is $62,827, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, homeland security, or a related field.

9. Private Investigators

Private investigators are responsible for conducting investigations, gathering evidence, and providing expert testimony in court. The average salary is $48,406, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a private investigator training program.

10. Criminal Profiler

Criminal profilers are responsible for analyzing criminal behavior, developing profiles of suspects, and providing expert testimony in court. The average salary is $68,870, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, or a related field.

11. Crime Prevention Specialist

Crime prevention specialists are responsible for developing and implementing programs to reduce crime and improve public safety. The average salary is $50,479, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field.

12. Fingerprint Technician

Fingerprint technicians are responsible for collecting and analyzing fingerprints for identification and criminal investigation purposes. The average salary is $35,695, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma and completion of a fingerprint technician training program.

13. Drug Enforcement Administration Agent

Drug enforcement administration agents enforce drug laws and investigate drug-related crimes. The average salary is $76,795, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field.

14. Homicide Detective

Homicide detectives are responsible for investigating homicides and gathering evidence to present in court. The average salary is $76,249, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a police academy program.

15. Victim Advocate

Victim advocates are responsible for helping victims of crime by providing emotional support, legal guidance, and other services. The average salary is $43,342, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, or a related field.

16. Narcotics Officer

Narcotics officers are responsible for investigating drug-related crimes in progress and apprehending suspects. The average salary is $64,929, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a police academy program.

17. State Trooper

State troopers are responsible for enforcing state laws and providing assistance to local law enforcement agencies. The average salary is $54,710, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a police academy program.

18. Youth Correctional Counselor

Youth correctional counselors are responsible for counseling juvenile offenders in correctional facilities. The average salary is $58,980, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, or a related field.

19. Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychologists are responsible for providing psychological assessments and expert testimony in court. The average salary is $161,730, and educational requirements are typically a master’s degree in psychology or a related field.

20. National Security Agency Police Officer

National security agency police officers are responsible for providing security to the National Security Agency (NSA) facilities and personnel. The average salary is $73,449, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a police academy program.

21. Criminal Justice Instructor

Criminal justice instructors are responsible for teaching courses in criminal justice and related subjects. The average salary is $58,282, and educational requirements are typically a master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field.

22. Deputy Sheriff

Deputy sheriffs are responsible for enforcing laws and providing assistance to local law enforcement agencies. The average salary is $45,640, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a police academy program.

23. Customs Inspector

Customs inspectors are responsible for inspecting cargo, travelers, and other items entering the United States. The average salary is $49,808, and educational requirements are typically a high school diploma or GED and completion of a customs inspector training program.

24. Federal Bureau Of Investigation (FBI) Agent

FBI agents are responsible for investigating federal crimes, gathering evidence, and providing expert testimony in court. The average salary is $55,000, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminology, criminal justice, or a related field.

25. Investigative Reporter

Investigative reporters are responsible for researching and reporting on news stories and other topics of interest. The average salary is $50,160, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in journalism or a related field.

26. Intelligence Analyst

Intelligence analysts are responsible for collecting and analyzing intelligence data to identify threats to national security. The average salary is $53,401, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in intelligence studies or a related field.

27. Fraud Investigator

Fraud investigators are responsible for investigating fraud cases, gathering evidence, and providing expert testimony in court. The average salary is $50,250, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, or a related field.

28. Computer Forensic Specialist

Computer forensic specialists investigate computer crimes, gather evidence, and provide expert testimony in court. The average salary is $64,593, and educational requirements are typically a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.

29. Paralegal

Paralegals are responsible for providing legal support to attorneys, conducting research, and drafting legal documents. The average salary is $49,527, and educational requirements are typically an associate’s degree in paralegal studies or a related field.

Career Outlook In The Criminal Justice Field

The work of criminal justice professionals is essential to the safety and well-being of society. With the rapid rise in crime rates worldwide, this field is becoming increasingly important and offers a range of rewarding career paths. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job growth in this sector is estimated to grow by 5% between 2019 and 2029.

Law enforcement, corrections, and private security organizations are just some employers looking for individuals with criminal justice degrees. The most sought-after roles include police officers, correctional officers, parole officers, probation officers, and forensic scientists – all of which can offer attractive salaries and benefits such as health insurance or pension plans.

Other potential jobs involve providing legal representation for those facing charges or victims of domestic violence or illegal immigration; investigating financial fraud; conducting research into judicial systems abroad; prosecuting international money laundering crimes; or taking on short-term investigative assignments.

Those wishing to pursue more advanced justice studies may also want to consider specializations such as paralegal science or forensic technology, which can open up further opportunities within the field, such as FBI agents or federal prosecutors.

Job seekers must thoroughly research each position they are considering to make an informed decision about their prospects within this ever-changing industry. Luckily, many resources, including the Occupational Outlook Handbook, provide useful guidance on this matter.

Qualifications Needed For Criminal Justice Jobs

For those interested in a career in criminal justice, specific qualifications need to be met to be successful. Most employers require a minimum of an associate degree in criminal justice or a related field, while some may require higher level degrees such as bachelor’s or even doctorate levels.

Physical aptitude is also important for positions like law enforcement officers, who must pass physical fitness tests and written tests before being hired. Communication skills are also essential here, as officers must communicate effectively with suspects and victims alike.

Specialized training may also be necessary beyond the educational requirements mentioned above. For example, the US Department of Homeland Security offers specialized training programs for federal agents, including investigative techniques and cyber security courses, which prepare them for their duties as investigators and protectors of national security interests.

Other specialized fields include forensic science technicians who study evidence from crime scenes using scientific methods, substance abuse counselors who work with people suffering from addiction, financial fraud investigators who examine financial records to uncover fraud, and judicial systems experts who make sure court proceedings are conducted fairly according to established laws.

Finally, background checks might be necessary for certain positions within the field of criminal justice before beginning employment. Therefore, anyone considering pursuing this profession must understand all the qualifications needed for criminal justice occupations to make an informed decision about their future career path in this field.

Working Conditions In The Criminal Justice Field

Entering the criminal justice field can be a rewarding and challenging career choice. Professionals in this sector must be prepared to deal with hazardous, stressful, and emotionally charged situations and long shifts that may include nights, weekends, or holidays.

Depending on their occupation, the job may require occasional travel, such as visiting crime scenes or investigating cases. All law enforcement officers must stay physically fit to meet the physical testing demands of their departments.

Criminal justice professionals could work in many settings, from courtrooms to facilities. They should have good communication skills and an ethical code of conduct while handling both criminals and victims of crime. They should also know about ‌legal practices like trials and appeals.

The salaries earned by these professionals depend on experience level, academic background, and job category. But usually range anywhere between $30K and $175K annually, depending on the role applied for. In addition, additional benefits such as health insurance or pension plans are often offered, with more experienced staff usually getting extra perks like paid time off.

Those interested in this line of work need to look at the profession’s outlook before taking any job within this area. There is intense competition due to the strong demand for qualified individuals, particularly at higher positions within federal law enforcement agencies or other more specialized fields requiring advanced degrees, such as forensic technology or paralegal studies.

Salary Range In The Criminal Justice Field

The salary range for criminal justice professionals can vary greatly depending on the position, experience, and location. Generally, entry-level positions such as police officers, correctional officers, and security guards can expect to make anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000 annually.

Those with more experience and qualifications, such as lawyers, police detectives, and federal agents, can expect significantly higher salaries, ranging from $50,000 to over $100,000. Salaries for those in supervisory or executive positions, such as judges, district attorneys, and police chiefs, can range from $60,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on their experience and the jurisdiction size.

In addition to salary, criminal justice professionals may also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. In some cases, criminal justice professionals may also receive bonuses or other forms of compensation based on their performance.

Overall, the salary range for criminal justice professionals can vary greatly depending on the position and the individual’s qualifications. Those with more experience and qualifications can expect higher salaries and receive more benefits than those with less experience and qualifications.

Benefits And Perks Of Working In The Criminal Justice Field

The benefits and perks of working in the criminal justice field can vary depending on the agency, organization, or institution. Generally, benefits and perks may include:

Competitive Salaries

Law enforcement officers, correctional officers, and other criminal justice professionals often receive competitive salaries, with the potential for overtime pay, bonuses, and other forms of compensation.

Generous Retirement Benefits

Many criminal justice employers offer generous retirement benefits, including pension plans, 401(k) plans, and other financial incentives.

Education Reimbursement

Many criminal justice employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing higher education or specialized training.

Health Insurance

Many employers provide health insurance for their criminal justice employees, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Paid Vacation And Sick Days

Paid vacation and sick days are standard in the criminal justice field, allowing employees to take time off to rest and recharge.

Professional Development

Many criminal justice employers provide ongoing professional development opportunities for their employees, such as continuing education courses, seminars, and conferences.

Job Security

Working in the criminal justice field can be a stable and secure career path, with job security and stability in the long term.