A Crime Analyst supports the Police Department by providing advanced analytical services that inform strategic decision-making, resource deployment, and proactive policing efforts. This position is responsible for conducting complex statistical and geospatial analysis of crime data using a variety of tools and methodologies, including regression analysis, probability studies, temporal and spatial modeling, and link analysis. The Crime Analyst synthesizes large datasets to identify crime trends, series, and patterns; develops target-suspect profiles; and creates actionable intelligence products that support investigative efforts, crime suppression strategies, and community engagement initiatives.
Primary duties include: preparing and presenting reports and briefings for Police Department leadership, patrol districts, and specialized units; responding to requests for intelligence or statistical products; and making presentations to both internal and external stakeholders, including community groups and interagency partners. This position may also support operational functions such as the automated scheduling system, strategic planning efforts, and CompStat meetings.
A Crime Analyst is assigned either to a Patrol District or to the CompStat Unit and is responsible for tailoring analytical outputs to the needs of their assigned command staff. Crime Analysts collaborate regularly with detectives, command staff, external agencies, and data specialists to ensure accurate, timely, and impactful analysis. Additional duties may be assigned based on departmental needs and priorities.
Work is performed under the general direction of a Police Lieutenant, Police Sergeant, or administrative supervisor with considerable latitude for independent initiative, judgment, and the selection of methods and procedures. Work performance is evaluated through presentations, written reports, and measurable results. This class is FLSA exempt-professional.
Please refer to the link below for the full job description and additional information regarding assignments, preferred qualifications, and essential functions.
Employee Values: All employees of the City of Mesa are expected to uphold and exhibit the City's shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity.
Minimum Qualifications Required. Any combination of education, training, or experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Criminology, Social Science, Statistics, or a related field; and two (2) years of professional experience performing crime or intelligence analysis in a law enforcement agency, military intelligence, criminal justice, government, academic, or business environment. A Master's Degree in Crime Analysis, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Statistics, Data Science, or closely related field can be substituted for years of experience.
Special Requirements. Because of the confidential, sensitive nature of information handled, successful completion of a background investigation is required.
Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment or pre-placement alcohol, drug and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy and procedures.
Preferred/Desirable Qualifications. Master’s degree in Criminal Justice, Crime Analysis, Public Administration, Statistics, Data Science, or a related field. Coursework or training in quantitative methods, data analytics, and programming languages (such as SQL, Python, or R). Experience conducting statistical research and analysis using automated systems and large datasets. Proficiency in data visualization and analytical tools such as Power BI, Tableau, GIS, SAS, and SPSS. Programming experience and knowledge of data structures, queries, and automation techniques. Prior professional experience in the criminal justice or intelligence field, especially related to crime analysis, intelligence, or law enforcement operations.
