Transit and Railroad Police

Your Fit

Income

$82K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

3.2%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Transit and Railroad Police?

Transit and Railroad Police are specialized law enforcement officers responsible for ensuring the safety and security of passengers, employees, and property on transit systems and railroads. They focus on preventing crimes related to the transit environment and enforcing relevant laws and regulations.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Transit and Railroad Police.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Transit and Railroad Police earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$58K per year	$66K per year	$82K per year	$114K per year	$142K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $33K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Transit and Railroad Police do?

Work environment

Transit and Railroad Police typically work in and around subway systems, train stations, and rail yards. This environment can be fast-paced and may require working at different hours, including nights and weekends, in various weather conditions. Officers may be required to wear uniforms and are often equipped with standard law enforcement tools and technology.

Quick task list

Patrols transit stations, trains, and railroad properties to ensure passenger and employee safety.
Investigates crimes committed on transit systems, such as theft, vandalism, and assault.
Responds to emergencies and accidents on transit and railroad property.
Works with local law enforcement agencies in crime prevention and response.
Enforces fare evasion laws and other transit-specific regulations.
Conducts security screenings and monitors surveillance equipment.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

K-9 Unit: Working with trained dogs for security screening and detection of contraband.
Special Operations: Handling high-risk incidents and emergency response situations.
Crime Prevention: Focusing on strategies to reduce crime in transit areas.
Investigations: Specializing in the investigation of transit-related crimes.
Community Policing: Engaging with the community to enhance safety and security awareness.

Description

Transit and Railroad Police play a unique role in public safety by focusing on the security of transit systems and railroads. Their duties are diverse, ranging from routine patrols to emergency response and crime investigation. Officers are trained to handle the specific challenges and risks associated with the transit environment, including dealing with a large and diverse population of passengers and responding quickly to incidents on moving trains or busy platforms.

Effective communication skills are crucial for Transit and Railroad Police, as they interact regularly with the public, providing assistance and ensuring compliance with transit rules. The ability to assess situations rapidly and respond appropriately is essential, particularly in high-pressure or emergency scenarios.

This career is ideal for those with a strong interest in law enforcement and public safety who are looking for a specialized area of policing. It offers opportunities for growth and advancement within the transit policing field and requires a commitment to maintaining the safety and security of the public transit system.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Protecting the public and ensuring safe transit experiences.
Responding to and resolving diverse challenges in a dynamic environment.
Working closely with the community and other law enforcement agencies.

You might make a good Transit and Railroad Police if you are...

Vigilant, with a keen eye for identifying potential security risks.
Able to remain calm and decisive in emergency situations.
Interested in law enforcement within a specialized and dynamic environment.
Physically fit and able to respond quickly to incidents.
A strong communicator, capable of interacting positively with the public.

Pros:

Rewarding work in protecting the public and ensuring transit safety.
Diverse and dynamic work environment.
Opportunities for specialized training and career advancement.

Cons:

Potentially high-stress situations, including emergency response.
Irregular hours, including nights and weekends.
Physical and mental demands of law enforcement work.

How to become a Transit and Railroad Police

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required, along with specialized training provided by the transit or railroad authority. Some positions may require or prefer candidates with some college education or a degree in criminal justice or a related field.

High school preparation

Courses:

Criminal Justice to understand basic law enforcement principles.
Physical Education to maintain physical fitness.
Psychology to develop an understanding of human behavior.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in team sports for physical fitness and teamwork skills.
Volunteering in community service projects.
Joining clubs or organizations that focus on public safety or community service.

Preparation after high school

Attend a police academy for formal law enforcement training.
Consider pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field.
Gain experience in roles that require vigilance, responsibility, and interaction with the public, such as security work or customer service positions.

More resources

National Transit Institute (NTI) - Offers training and resources related to transit security and safety.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) - Provides information on transportation security careers and regulations.
American Public Transportation Association (APTA) - Features resources on public transit industry standards and safety practices.
Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) - Offers information on railroad safety programs and regulations.
International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Transit Policing Section - Provides resources and networking opportunities for law enforcement officers in the transit sector.

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