Thread: What type of job to expect at a police department at 19 years old?

Hello guys.

I'm just curious, I recently turned 19 and want to apply at the local PD for a job. I simply want experience in the law enforcement community, as I plan to intern with the FBI in about 2 years. I'm also a full time student in a university. What type of jobs do you think they would offer me at such a young age? Dispatcher? I'm quite unsure, if you guys can tell me about what to expect that would be greatly appreciated. I also checked a previous post similar to mine, but it was quite vague and not as specific of a question as mine.

Oh yeah, we don't have a police explorers program here either.

Thanks in advance,
iHoax.

Well, it certainly depends on what those departments have to offer in the first place, which varies from place to place. Some places have a Community Service Officer, or similar title, which is a non-sworn person who may be assigned various tasks that don't require a sworn officer. Some places also have volunteer Police Reserves. Also, you should check the various levels of government. You may find that the county sheriff's office has something to your liking. Sometimes other agencies have similar positions. Sometimes park rangers can be employed by city, county, state, or even special park districts or similar organizations. I would even check with the U.S. Government. The National Park Service has some folks that work on a seasonal basis. I have known people that started at their local county jail and that was a springboard to full time employment later on. Some places might even still hire parking enforcement officers.

Since you are a full time university student, you might check there for campus security. I have heard some places limit or prohibit student employment because of the potential conflict of interest.

If you care to post what city you are near, perhaps others from that area may have a better insight on what is available.

Thanks for the quick response. I actually live in Fairview, TX. I'm actually quite close to Richardson/Plano/Allen/Dallas area. Can you offer me any additional insight based on my location?

Link to job recruitment site deleted