Maybe you guys can help with decision.

[clint802002]

I just recently entered the work force as a rad tech, and I am really questioning my choice of career. It is an ok job, but when I think of being the in the work force for the rest of my life, I would rather not have something that I can "handle". I think being a police officer could be something that I really enjoy, but since I have never done it, it is hard to be completely sure. I was wondering how yall knew this career was right for you. Another thing I was wondering is how hard is it to get into different departments. I would like to go to Homocide, Swat, or there are many others that interest me. It seems like a lot of police officers stay patrol officers though out their careers, is this by choice or is it just really hard to get into other areas. Thanks for your help.



Clint

[Kimble]

I just recently entered the work force as a rad tech

Nice... I'm changing my title to Rad Director tomorrow (Rad Deputy is pretty sweet too).

I think being a police officer could be something that I really enjoy, but since I have never done it, it is hard to be completely sure. I was wondering how yall knew this career was right for you.

How did you know you wanted to be a Rad Tech (there's that catchy title again :D ) before you became one? If you're interested in finding out about the job before applying for a full-time position, do a ride-along with a department, or even better, become a reserve officer/deputy with a department near you (assuming there's a reserve program near you).

Another thing I was wondering is how hard is it to get into different departments. I would like to go to Homocide, Swat, or there are many others that interest me. It seems like a lot of police officers stay patrol officers though out their careers, is this by choice or is it just really hard to get into other areas.

Sounds more like your question is in regard to other units within a department as opposed to switching from one department to another. Doing your job well will help in moving to different units/divisions. Also, there are some who really enjoy patrol, and don't move on to another position by choice. Specialized units like SWAT, Bomb Squad, etc. often require their members to be in top physical condition, so stay fit if this is where you'd like to be. Homicide is just one part of the investigative duties a department will handle, but if this is what interests you, try to get on into an investigative position early (whether it be non-violent crimes, child abuse crimes, traffic investigations, what ever... as long as you're gaining investigative skills and experience it will be a plus).

[Charlie]

There are numerous similar questions to yours in various threads on RP. I can only encourage you to explore the web site to seek out those other threads. BUT,... I will offer up my opinion concerning your questions:

I think being a police officer could be something that I really enjoy, but since I have never done it, it is hard to be completely sure. I was wondering how yall knew this career was right for you.

Everyone is obviously different when it comes to "what" exactly inspired them to get into law enforcement. I can nly encourage people like yourself to seriously consider going on a ride-a-long with a local agency in your area. If you're not sure where to look for this program, try either your local PD's web site for more information or simply call the department and ask! If they have such a program in place, consider going out sometime with one of the officers to get a first hand look at what it's all about...

Another thing I was wondering is how hard is it to get into different departments.

Short answer: Depends on the department. Departments commonly have different regualtions, standards and policies. Best approach is probably contacting each department's recruiter you have an interest in to find out first hadn what they each require. There is no universal standard all departments abide by.

I would like to go to Homocide, Swat, or there are many others that interest me. It seems like a lot of police officers stay patrol officers though out their careers, is this by choice or is it just really hard to get into other areas.

Commonly, at most departments, everyone starts in uniformed patrol, serving a couple of years at least in most cases, before going into specialized areas such as SWAT, Homicide, etc. How "hard" is it to enter those special divisions? Again, depends on the department and what kind of selection criteria they have to move someone into those areas.

A lot of officers do stay in patrol for a number of reasons. Some don't want to specialize. And a patrol officer's position should NOT be regarded as anything less! Patrol personnel are the "backbone" in any department...
--
Charlie

[Nole795]

It seems like a lot of police officers stay patrol officers though out their careers, is this by choice or is it just really hard to get into other areas. Thanks for your help.Clint

I will answer this one...I have gone from local, state, to federal law enforcement. The best position (IMO) in law enforcement is a patrol officer. If you want a change of pace every day, there is no better job then being the street cop. Everyday is different and once you are done, there is no work to take home, no cases left on your desk, nothing.

Your best war stories comes from patrol.

[clint802002]

Thanks for the information, I think the ride-along would be a good idea. I might give the recruiter a call tomorrow and ask him/her some questions. I didn't mean to offend any patrol officers, 2 of the special units I would really be interested in is bike patrol, and motorcycle patrol, or I could very well enjoy regular patrol. I was also wondering how your shifts work? Do you work 8, 10, or 12s. Shift work, or always on the same shift. I noticed 2 of you were from TX, and I would be applying to HPD, so if you know any specifics feel free to share.


Clint

[Rad Diver]

Hey everyone, I didn't tell ya'll I have a tech now ;)

[Scotsman]

Homocide? Do you get a more colorful uniform? Is there some sort of special training for that? Does everyday start with your boss telling you, "You're gonna feel a little pressure..."?