Why Would a Police Officer Choose to Keep Their Old Job Instead of Becoming a Full-time Cop?

Being a police officer is an incredible profession, but it is not always the most financially lucrative or rewarding career path for everyone. There are many other jobs and employment opportunities that can provide greater benefits, better pay, and more flexibility. This article will explore various reasons why a police officer might choose to keep their current part-time job instead of transitioning to a full-time law enforcement career.

Financial Incentives of Part-time Employment

A significant reason for a police officer to stick with their old job is the higher earnings they can make from their primary employment. Many reserve officers or deputies opt for their civilian job because they can earn a more substantial income. Part-time and reserve officers often work in other sectors where they can accumulate a larger earnings margin. For example, some might work in landscaping, real estate sales, or even serve as a Forest Patrol Deputy, Search and Rescue worker, and Emergency Management coordinator, as the case with the author of this article. Their part-time positions enable them to balance their duties with other professional pursuits and generate more income.

Benefits and Flexibility

Part-time employment also offers unique advantages in terms of benefits. While a full-time police officer might have access to certain benefits, such as a family medical plan with some co-payments, other companies provide far more comprehensive coverage. This can translate to significant savings on medical, dental, and vision care. Additionally, some alternative employment opportunities offer educational programs where the employer reimburses the employee for training and educations, even providing a free place to live while studying. These benefits can be a compelling reason for a police officer to continue in their old job.

Job Satisfaction and Personal Interests

Besides the financial and benefit advantages, personal job satisfaction and other interests can also influence an officer's decision to remain in their current part-time role. For instance, the author of this article mentioned working with the U.S.F.S., **National Park Service (WA St D.N.R.**), and private timber lands. They stated that while they enjoyed the thrill of field work and the diverse crime and rescue cases they encountered, they preferred the flexibility of their current job to the potential rigidity of a full-time desk job.

Conclusion

While becoming a full-time police officer is undoubtedly an admirable career choice, it is not the best fit for everyone. Many police officers, especially those in reserve or part-time roles, find that their old jobs offer better financial opportunities, more benefits, and the flexibility to pursue other interests. Whether it's a landscaping business, real estate agency, or other part-time work, the decision to keep their current job is often a matter of personal choice, financial necessity, and professional fulfillment.