How much does a Public Safety Officer make?

The average salary for a Public Safety Officer is $39,979 per year in United States. Salaries estimates are based on 1001 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by a Public Safety Officer employees in United States.

The highest salary for a Public Safety Officer in United States is $47,813 per year.

The lowest salary for a Public Safety Officer in United States is $33,515 per year.

If you are thinking of becoming a Public Safety Officer or planning the next step in your career, find details about the role, the career path and salary trajectory of a Public Safety Officer.

Public safety officers receive stable government salaries with high benefits, reflecting their long work hours and sometimes dangerous jobs. Overtime opportunities are frequent, as communities need public safety officers at all hours of the day and every day of the year. Some departments pay more to bilingual officers or officers that have a college degree. Higher ranking officers are generally paid higher, but they also face a greater degree of responsibility. Some departments offer generous pensions and the opportunity to retire early.

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With an average total pay of $39,978.71, public safety officers can expect to make a good living. In regard to satisfaction with their salaries, around 70% of public safety officers report that they are happy with the money they make.

How much a public safety officer makes depends on a number of factors, including education and how far along you are into your public safety officer career path. At first, you might make around $28,612.02, but income as high as $56,117.58 is possible over time. Most public safety officers earn an annual base pay of about $38,467.77. However, you may also earn more through bonuses or profit sharing can lead to $1,510.94 in additional pay each year.

You can increase your salary as a public safety officer through a combination of education and work experience. While many entry-level positions only require a high school diploma or GED, an associate's or bachelor's degree in a field like criminal justice will help you stand out from the competition. More advanced training as a public safety officer is usually provided after hiring.

Over time, you'll make more as a public safety officer through seniority and additional training. Consider certifications in subjects such as first aid, CPR, fire safety, and public dispatching to enhance your resume. All of these can help raise your salary and open doors into management positions.

A career as a public safety officer offers several pathways for advancement. As you gain experience and credentials, you'll be able to explore related fields and apply for supervisor positions. Sometimes, changing employers can net you a promotion and pay raise all at once. Keep an eye on local job listings in public safety to find that perfect new opportunity.

In the meantime, make sure your income matches your value at your current workplace. Negotiate regular raises with your employer to match your experience and cost of living. A typical annual raise may fall within a range of about 3% to 5%, though you can always ask for more.

About 69.72% of Public Safety Officer professionals feel satisfied with their salary, according to anonymous Glassdoor ratings. An additional $1,511 in potential pay per year, among other factors, can qualify the annual pay of a Public Safety Officer in United States as a good salary.

Public Safety Officer professionals in United States have a wide total pay range, between $28,612 and $56,118 depending on experience, with an estimated total pay of $39,979 following the average career path of a Public Safety Officer.