Law Enforcement Resume Examples
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Roles in Law Enforcement by Type
Here, you’ll find all our resume samples for law enforcement job titles organized by type
Correctional law enforcement
Local security
National security
Court law
Criminal law enforcement
Border & immigration law enforcement
Private security
Cover Letters
Job Outlook
Employment demand for police and detectives is expected to grow three percent by 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Great news! That means you can be selective about the right position for you.
Make sure your resume helps you land the job you want with our professional writing tips.
3 Tips for Writing Law Enforcement Resumes
1. How do you pick the right format for your experience level?
Need help selecting a resume format? Picking the correct format boils down to your career goals and years of experience. See which one of these is right for you:
- Consider using a chronological resume if you’re a professional with over five years of experience. Since it focuses the reader’s attention on the work experience section, it’s the ideal format for showcasing your career progression.
- If you’re starting out with less than two years of experience, a functional resume is the one for you because it focuses on your skills instead of your work experience.
- What about professionals with over two but less than five years of experience? A hybrid/combination resume is the perfect balance. This format places equal emphasis on a candidate’s skills and experience.
2. Use law enforcement-friendly skills
Ensure you’re showcasing the top skills in the law enforcement industry. These are the most sought-after soft and hard skills in the field:
- Attention to detail
- Decision making
- Emergency response
- Local laws
- Conflict resolution
- Communication skills
- Community awareness
- Critical thinking
- Defensive tactics
- Firearms
3. Use a professional template
An intelligent and well-thought-out resume will impress employers in any branch of law enforcement. Browse our library of free resume templates to find the best one for you!
Law Enforcement Resume FAQ
How much does a job in law enforcement get paid?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for police and detectives was $69,160 in May 2022.
What education should I put on my resume for law enforcement?
Employers in law enforcement are looking for professionals with experience working with communities and who understand local and state laws. In your work experience section, include any position related to community building. For example:
Community Organizer
Tampa, FL
Aug. 2020 – Dec. 2023
- Develop and coordinate social service programs available for the community.
Include any certification or course related to safety or law in your educational background. For example:
CPR Certified
FL Department of Health
Nov. 2023
Should I include a cover letter with my law enforcement resume?
If you’re applying for a detective or supervisor position, include a cover letter detailing your experience in the field and outstanding achievements. Use our Cover Letter Builder to craft your own!