Police Identification and Records Officers

Professionals in this field gather and document crucial information at crime scenes. Their daily tasks involve photographing physical evidence, classifying fingerprints, and processing data for criminal and civil proceedings. To perform this work, officers must identify key objects and events, solve complex problems, and make critical decisions. They regularly communicate with colleagues and supervisors, organize their daily tasks, and use computers to update records.

Success in this role requires strong skills in active listening, critical thinking, reading comprehension, and writing. Officers must be highly observant and detail-oriented. They need a solid understanding of law, government, public safety, security, and administrative procedures. Knowledge of biology, mathematics, and computers is also highly beneficial. Because the work involves sensitive situations, officers must demonstrate high integrity, dependability, self-control, and stress tolerance. This career strongly appeals to individuals with conventional interests who enjoy organized, detail-oriented work.

To enter this career, candidates typically need at least a high school diploma. However, many people prepare by completing vocational training, earning an associate degree, or gaining related work experience. Students interested in this path often choose college majors such as criminal justice and corrections, security science and technology, intelligence, environmental and natural resources management and policy, or command control and information operations.

While specific requirements vary by employer, professional credentials can help candidates demonstrate their expertise. Related certifications in the field include the National Law Enforcement credential from the Law and Public Safety Education Network, as well as the Certified Information Privacy Professional - Europe, which is offered by the International Association of Privacy Professionals.

In 2025, the median annual pay for the broader group of detectives and criminal investigators was $93,790. Within this group, the lowest 10% earned less than $55,390, while the highest 10% earned more than $160,540. There are 114,430 people employed in this field. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 0.2%, which represents little or no change. Despite this flat growth, about 7,800 job openings are expected to become available each year.