Overview
Police officers maintain order and enforce laws and regulations. They respond to emergency calls, patrol public areas, regulate traffic, control crowds, arrest offenders and build community relationships. They are employed by municipal and federal governments and some provincial and regional governments.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Respond to emergency calls and complaints, execute search warrants and arrest criminal suspects
Patrol assigned areas on foot, horseback, bicycle and motorized vehicles to maintain public safety and order and to enforce laws and regulations
Prepare reports to record incidents and patrol activities and to provide testimony in courts of law
Provide emergency assistance to victims of accidents, crimes and natural disasters
Monitor traffic to ensure motorists observe traffic regulations and test persons suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs
Control crowds at public events and protests and monitor suspicious and violent behaviour
Participate in crime prevention, public information, safety and community relations programs
Perform daily administrative tasks in support of law enforcement activities, such as maintaining equipment and information files
May assist police investigators in criminal investigations.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$64,654
$95,708
$120,318
Job openings
Use this interactive map to explore job openings in different regions across B.C.
Strong job outlook
British Columbia
1,986expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is required.
Completion of a college program in police technology is required in Québec and usually required in other provinces and territories.
A three- to six-month police training program is required.
Additional information
- Progression to investigative positions is possible with additional training and experience.
Certification requirements
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.