Public Safety

If you’re motivated to help people in emergencies, defend what matters, and create safer communities,
a career in public safety could be for you!

This field has a range of job types, so there is a place for many different skill sets and backgrounds.

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Ashley Cooper, Watlow

Watlow is a local manufacturing employer with a range of job positions and a dedication to bettering the community. Watch this video to learn more about the career field and about Watlow.

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Career Progression*

Whether you begin with foundational training or demonstrate courage and commitment on the job,
a career in public safety offers clear opportunities for growth, advancement, and leadership.

STARTING YOUR CAREER

Many public safety careers allow you to start with little or no prior experience.

Salary range:
$31,824-$46,842

Possible Job Positions:
Community Service Aid /
Public Safety Aid

911 Dispatcher /
Emergency Communications Operator

Police Officer (Recruit / Probationary)

Firefighter (Recruit / Trainee)

Corrections Officer / Detention Officer

ADVANCING IN YOUR CAREER

Through academy training, certifications, and on-the-job learning, you can advance into specialized roles over time.

Salary range:
$52,478-$87,381

Possible Job Positions:
Senior 911 Dispatcher / Communications Training Officer

Police Corporal / Detective / Investigator

Fire Engineer / Driver-Operator / Fire Inspector

Paramedic / EMS Specialist

Emergency Management Specialist

Field Training Officer (Police or Fire)

LEADING IN YOUR CAREER

In leadership roles, you guide teams, shape strategy, and ensure the safety and well-being of your community.

Salary range:
$72,989-$225,098

Possible Job Positions:
911 Shift Supervisor / Communications Center Manager

Police Sergeant / Lieutenant / Captain

Fire Lieutenant / Captain / Battalion Chief

Jail / Corrections Supervisor

Emergency Management Coordinator / Director

Public Safety Director / Chief of Police / Fire Chief

*Data Sources: Salary and progression information is based on input from HR staff at Columbia businesses, statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and local job market listings found on Indeed, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter.

What You Need to Succeed

Frequently asked questions about how to excel in a career in Public Safety

Yes. Many entry-level roles in public safety, such as 911 call takers, corrections officers, and police cadets, provide on-the-job training. Prior experience in customer service, teamwork, or high-stress environments can be helpful, but it’s not required to begin.
Education requirements vary by department and role:
- Police Department & Sheriff’s Office: Typically require a high school diploma or GED. Some roles may prefer or require college coursework.
- Fire Department: A high school diploma or GED is required; EMT certification may be needed or provided after hire.
- Corrections Facility: Requires a high school diploma or GED.
- 911 Joint Communications: Requires a high school diploma or GED. Strong communication and computer skills are essential.
Public safety hiring often takes longer than other careers. Background checks, drug screenings, medical evaluations, psychological testing, and academy class start dates can add weeks—or even months—to the timeline. Applicants should plan for a thorough, multi-step process.
Yes. Disqualifiers may include certain criminal convictions, falsified application information, failed drug tests, or inability to meet physical and psychological standards. Each department has its own guidelines, so it’s important to review requirements carefully before applying.

Your Path to
Getting Started

Click a path number for more information.

Discover whether a career in public safety might be a good fit for you. Click to take a quiz: Police Officer, Firefighter, or 911 Dispatcher.

View Local Employers — We recommend applying on company sites instead of sites such as Indeed.com

Apprenticeships, Certificates, and Colleges/Technical Schools that could be helpful for career progression

Career coaching and career-related financial assistance in Boone County

Career Testimonials

Heather Fernandez, Operations Manager, Boone County Joint Communications
Starting as a Telecommunicator at Boone County Joint Communications in 2021, I was eager to learn and serve my community. Transitioning into the roles of CTO, Lead Telecommunicator in 2022, and Supervisor in 2023 gave me the chance to grow as a leader and be part of many positive changes within our organization. Now, stepping into the Operations Manager role in 2025, I’m grateful for the opportunity to support our team in new ways and continue building on the progress we’ve made together.

Deputy Sheriff Ethan Ogden,
Boone County Sheriff’s Office
I started my career in the Boone County Jail working as a detention officer. Working in the jail allowed me to build many great skills. Thanks to the guidance and training offered to me by fellow employees I was selected to attend the Law Enforcement Training Institute (LETI). I graduated from the academy in July 2025, and I am now in field training as a deputy.

Rob Williams, Production Manager, Kraft-Heinz
Began as an Operator, progressed through mid-level roles, and advanced into supervisory and managerial leadership, ultimately serving as Production Manager.