Career Paths
The Paterson Police Department is composed of a diverse range of specialized divisions and units, each requiring unique skills and qualifications to effectively serve and protect the community. A career with the PPD gives officers the opportunity to explore various career paths and develop expertise in multiple areas of law enforcement. Unlike smaller departments with limited specialization, the PPD provides a dynamic environment where officers can advance, acquire specialized training, and tailor their careers to align with their interests and strengths. Whether pursuing roles in investigations, community policing, emergency response, or other specialized units, officers at the PPD have the flexibility to shape their professional journey while making a meaningful impact on public safety.
Patrol Division
The Patrol Division is the backbone of law enforcement in Paterson, providing 24/7 public safety services to the community 365 days a year. As the largest and most visible unit of the department, patrol officers respond to emergency calls, conduct proactive policing, and engage in community-oriented initiatives to foster trust and safety. Officers are trained in crime prevention, traffic enforcement, and crisis response, ensuring a rapid and professional presence throughout the city. A career in the Patrol Division offers an opportunity to serve and protect while gaining valuable experience for advancement within the department.
Traffic Unit
The Traffic Unit is dedicated to ensuring the safe and efficient flow of traffic throughout the city. Officers in this specialized unit enforce traffic laws, investigate motor vehicle accidents, and conduct DUI checkpoints to enhance public safety. They also assist with special events, school zone enforcement, and pedestrian safety initiatives. This unit offers a dynamic and challenging career path for officers who want to make a direct impact on roadway safety while developing expertise in accident reconstruction and traffic law enforcement. Within the Traffic Unit, officers can also be motor officers, driving motorcycles for necessary escorts and other events.
Emergency Response Team
The Emergency Response Team is an elite, highly trained unit dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of the Paterson community in high-risk situations. The ERT handles critical incidents such as hostage situations, active shooter threats, high-risk warrants, and other tactical operations requiring specialized skills and equipment. Within the ERT is the K9 Unit where officers perform policing functions with the help of a K9 Officer.
Major Crimes Unit
The Major Crimes Unit is a specialized investigative team committed to solving the most serious offenses, including homicides, assaults, robberies, and other violent crimes. Detectives in this unit utilize advanced investigative techniques, forensic analysis, and intelligence gathering to bring justice to victims and their families. Working closely with local, state, and federal agencies, the Major Crimes Unit plays a critical role in maintaining public safety and reducing violent crime in Paterson. This unit offers a challenging and rewarding career for officers dedicated to investigative work and making a lasting impact in the community.
Juvenile Unit
The Juvenile Unit is dedicated to protecting and guiding the city’s youth while addressing juvenile-related crimes and issues. Officers in this specialized unit work closely with schools, social services, and community organizations to prevent delinquency, intervene in at-risk situations, and investigate crimes involving juveniles. The unit focuses on rehabilitation, education, and diversion programs to help young individuals make positive choices while ensuring public safety. This is a rewarding career path for officers passionate about mentoring, protecting, and making a difference in the lives of Paterson’s youth.
Specialized Investigations Unit
The Specialized Investigations Division is dedicated to tackling violent crime, gang activity, and quality-of-life issues through intelligence-driven investigations and enforcement action. This division includes the Shooting Investigation Unit, which focuses on solving firearm-related crimes, identifying offenders, and preventing further violence, as well as the Community Stabilization Unit, which works proactively to reduce crime and enhance public safety in high-risk areas. A career in the Specialized Investigations Division offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity for officers committed to making a lasting impact on Paterson’s safety.
Narcotics & ABC Division
The Paterson Police Department Narcotics & ABC (Alcohol Beverage Control) Division is committed to combating illegal drug activity and enforcing alcohol-related laws to maintain public safety. This highly trained unit conducts undercover operations, surveillance, and targeted investigations to dismantle drug networks and shut down illegal alcohol sales. Officers in this division work closely with local, state, and federal agencies to reduce substance-related crimes and improve the quality of life in Paterson. A career in the Narcotics and ABC Division offers an exciting and impactful opportunity for officers dedicated to proactive enforcement and community safety.
Community Affairs Division
The Paterson Police Department Community Affairs Division serves as the vital link between law enforcement and the community, fostering trust, engagement, and collaboration. This division focuses on outreach programs, youth initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations to strengthen relationships and improve public safety. Officers in Community Affairs work proactively to address concerns, promote crime prevention, and organize events that bring residents and law enforcement together. A career in this division is ideal for officers passionate about building positive connections and making a lasting impact in the community.
