The job of a police officer is different every day. Skip to navigation Skip to content. Wilhelm Schnotz has worked as a freelance writer since , covering arts and entertainment, culture and financial stories for a variety of consumer publications. Before being hired, they must pass a rigorous background check that probes everything from credit history to past drug use. Career Profiles. A total of 17, police work in the state of Massachusetts, which translates into 5. Chicago, Illinois.