Police Sergeant

Also called: Patrol Sergeant, Supervisor

Supervises a squad of officers on patrol, reviewing their work and leading at scenes.

A day in the life

Sergeants respond to the toughest calls, coach young officers, approve reports, and step in when a situation is escalating. They're the bridge between officers on the street and command.

Pay over a career

Starting
$70k
Typical
$105k
High
$150k

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

High school diploma, about 6 years after high school. Promotion by exam after several years as an officer.

Ways in: On-the-job training, 4-year college. Training cost: Get paid while you train.

Majors to look at: Criminal Justice, Public Administration.

Outlook

Growing about average (about 3% over 10 years). First-line supervisors of police (approx.).

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Low risk for 10 years. AI pre-screens reports and use-of-force video; coaching officers and leading at tense scenes stay human.

Start now, in high school

Classes: Psychology, Speech, PE / strength training, Leadership class.

Official data: O*NET occupation 33-1012.

More Police & Local Law Enforcement careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.