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SOC 3312 Protective service occupations

Police officers (sergeant and below) Salary

Salary data from ONS ASHE. Some figures may be unavailable due to small sample sizes.

About this role

Police officers (sergeant and below) maintain public safety and enforce the law. They investigate crimes, gather evidence, respond to incidents, engage with communities and work within the criminal justice system to prevent crime and bring offenders to justice.

Key responsibilities

  • Investigating crimes and gathering evidence
  • Responding to incidents and emergencies
  • Engaging with communities to prevent crime and build trust
  • Preparing case files and giving evidence in court
  • Working with partner agencies in the criminal justice system

Qualifications and entry routes

Police officers complete the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) or Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP). Detectives require additional investigative training (PIP Level 2). Immigration officers undergo Home Office training programmes.

Career outlook

Government uplift programmes have increased police recruitment. Demand for detective and specialist investigative roles remains high due to workforce shortages.

Key skills

Investigation Communication Decision-making under pressure Legal knowledge Community engagement

Common industries

  • Police forces
  • National Crime Agency
  • Border Force
  • Immigration enforcement
  • British Transport Police

Data coverage

SOC code 3312
Data source ONS ASHE
Years available 2015–2025
Estimated jobs 274,000

Median Salary

N/A

Mean Salary

N/A

Jobs (000s)

274k

Data Years

11 years

Salary Trend (2015-2025)

Nominal growth: +16.7%Real growth: -12.2%