Top 5 Hiring Trends in the Criminal Justice Industry

17 percent predicted growth

Most of us at some point fantasize about being the tough-as-nails gumshoe who tracks down the bad guys, like the hero of a Raymond Chandler novel. It's no surprise, then, to see that OOH estimates a need for 18,700 new detectives and investigators through 2018, mostly to replace retiring workers, but also to meet the needs of a growing population. Keep in mind that police work is always inherently dangerous, but OOH says the job opportunity outlook for detectives over the next several years will be favorable.

18 percent predicted growth

Today's court reporter is no longer the stereotypical older lady using a tiny keypad to frantically record everything said during a trial. OOH estimates that another 3,900 court reporters will be needed through 2018 as America's courthouses continue to modernize their transcription services with real-time captioning for websites and live television feeds, as well as translation services for the deaf. The report indicates the need is predicted to be especially acute in rural areas where fewer people are applying for these jobs.

19 percent predicted growth

Criminal justice does not simply end with the capture and conviction of criminals. After being incarcerated, these individuals must be managed by an army of correctional treatment personnel and later monitored by probation, parole and community supervision officers once they're released. As mandatory sentencing guidelines and reduced paroles continue to increase the nation's prison population, OOH reports that 19,900 new jobs in this robust sector will likely be created by 2018. It's sometimes difficult and stressful work, but the opportunities for advancement are "excellent," OOH says.

20 percent predicted growth

With the popularity of shows like "CSI: Miami," this field is hot right now both in the mass media spotlight and in the real world. Forensic science involves the analysis of crime scene evidence, such as weapons, furniture or clothing for substances like fibers, glass, hair, tissues and bodily fluids that may help identify culprits. As more state and local governments improve their capacity to use DNA evidence to solve crimes, OOH predicts that about 2,500 new positions in this small but rapidly growing sector will be created.

A whopping 28 percent predicted growth

With 48,000 new openings estimated through 2018, this field should be one of the most active and competitive in the criminal justice arena over the next few years. Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, are the worker bees of the legal profession, helping lawyers prepare for hearings and trials by investigating the facts of each assigned case and identifying any relevant case laws and judicial decisions.

Even though a bad economy can result in a decline in business for the legal profession overall, OOH reports that paralegals often are in greater demand during tough times as law firms scramble to handle a higher number of bankruptcies and foreclosures. Also, paralegals can provide many of the same services as lawyers but are much less expensive, making them attractive for clients looking to trim expenses.