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Government & Public ServicesStable

Police Identification and Records Officer

Operational-level

Also known as: Accident Examiner, Accident Investigator, Accident Reconstructionist, Community Service Officer

Government & Public ServicesBachelor's Degree

Job Description

As a Police Identification and Records Officer, you collect evidence at crime scenes, classify and identify fingerprints, and photograph items for use in criminal and civil cases. You'll work mostly indoors in a controlled environment, communicating with others through face-to-face discussions, email, and phone calls. This role demands high accuracy, critical thinking, and the freedom to make important decisions when documenting findings and contributing to investigations. It suits someone who is detail-oriented and precise.
ForensicsCriminal JusticeCrime Scene InvestigationFingerprint AnalysisPublic SafetyLaw EnforcementPhotographyPolice & MilitaryGovernment

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

+0.2%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

7,800

per year (US)

Jobs today

120,500

in 2025 → 120,700 (2035)

Typical entry education

High school diploma or equivalent

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
Moderate
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
Moderate
Time spent sitting
Moderate
Working outdoors
Moderate
Indoor, climate-controlled
High
Dealing with customers
Moderate
Level of competition
Low

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Stable Job Market

This career has a stable outlook through 2035, with approximately 7,800 job openings expected each year. The median annual wage is $93,790. You could advance into specialized forensic roles or supervisory positions within crime scene investigation, building on your expertise.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Junior Crime Scene Technician
  • Police Records Assistant
  • Evidence Collection Agent

Where it can lead

  • Forensic Scientist
  • Crime Scene Investigator Supervisor
  • Specialized Detective

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will likely assist Police Identification and Records Officers by automating preliminary evidence analysis, enhancing facial and fingerprint recognition software, and streamlining digital record management. However, human expertise in critical thinking, scene interpretation, and complex case analysis will remain essential for accurate and legally sound outcomes, shifting their role towards oversight and advanced problem-solving.