NCJ Number
99429
Journal
Police Journal Volume: 58 Issue: 3 Dated: (July 1985) Pages: 243-251
Date Published
1985
Length
9 pages
Annotation
The article outlines Federal law enforcement positions, fitness requirements, examination procedures, and education and training.
Abstract
The three basic Federal law enforcement positions are general investigator, criminal investigator, and uniformed police officer (border patrol, customs, protective officer). Hiring for most of these positions is coordinated by the Office of Personnel Management. Requirements for the various positions are determined by the individual agencies, although applicants usually first must pass an appropriate written test to be considered for employment. Interviews are conducted by the hiring agency, which considers such factors as previous education, police-related experience, honors, and references. All positions require a medical examination and a background investigation. The candidate also successfully must pass a training course at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. Individuals desiring a position generally will notify a Federal job information center for notification of tests or openings in certain agencies. Agencies can use applicant lists to select candidates from regions throughout the country. There are over 60 police and investigative agencies at the Federal level. Specific duties vary with the position, as do prior training and education requirements. For some positions there may be stringent eyesight criteria, while for others, facility with languages, accounting abilities, or an avanced college degree are required. While training also varies, most Federal investigative and police personnel receive basic training in constitutional and criminal law, investigative techniques, search and seizure methods, firearms, and report writing, as well as physical fitness training. Five references are provided.