Separating from the military takes time. There are a lot of steps in the process – followed by determining your next career move. For many veterans, a career in law enforcement is a natural and fulfilling next step, especially if you enjoy working as a team to protect and serve your community.
Top 5 Law Enforcement Jobs for Veterans
But even though military and law enforcement careers have parallels, it can be challenging to translate your active duty experience to the civilian world. Here’s a list of the top five law enforcement jobs to help you get started.
1. BORDER PATROL OFFICER
This discipline and leadership-focused career tract will integrate your ability to make decisions under pressure and utilize your strong communications skills. In addition, you’ll work as a cohesive unit with your fellow officers to maintain peace, order and protection at our borders.
2. SECRET SERVICE AGENT
Over 20% of Secret Service employees are veterans. As the people responsible for the safety and well-being of the most important members of our government and their families, the agency consistently seeks veterans for their dedicated experience serving in the armed forces. Your training in handling high-risk and demanding situations will translate seamlessly.
3. DETECTIVE AND CRIMINAL INVESTIGATOR
Like uniformed police officers, the driving force of a detective and criminal investigator is to protect and serve their community. These plain-clothed officers require strong analytical, leadership and communication skills to effectively solve their cases.
4. SPECIAL AGENT
The FBI actively recruits military veterans. Your familiarity with sensitive information and strategically working toward a common goal are skills the agency needs its agents to possess.
5. PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
Like the military, law enforcement agencies have their own vernacular that ordinary citizens don’t understand. The role of a PIO is to bridge that gap, effectively communicating essential news and updates to the community they serve.
Start Your Search now
Law enforcement jobs can add meaning and value to your post-military life. It’s a relatively secure market with a projected 5% growth, according to the Bureau of Statistics. If you don’t hold an advanced degree, the GI Bill allows you to train in your field of choice with little to no cost. Some agencies can have a longer process, so it’s never too soon to start checking out which one lines you like.
