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Entry Level Police Department Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Examples of Work Entry level position. Requires attendance at Police Academy and period of ... Department of Criminal Justice Services incumbent shall be administratively upgraded to the ...

Interacts with other department members, the criminal justice system, and citizens in general with ... General knowledge of police methods, practices, and procedures and general knowledge of City, State ...

Sheriff's Deputy

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$66K - $116K/yr

The sheriff's office holds concurrent law enforcement jurisdiction with local police departments ... Eligible applicants may receive a one-time education bonus, as a percentage of the entry-level ...

Amherst County Department of Social Services is hiring a Fraud Investigator. This is a part-time ... Fraud Investigator I represents the entry level and works under close supervision while being ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Police Department information

See Virginia salary details

$21.9K

$47.3K

$75.4K

How much do entry level police department jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police department in Virginia is $47,335.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,497.00 and $54,948.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you work in an entry level police department without being a police officer?

Entry level positions in police departments often include roles such as administrative support, community service officers, or cadets, which do not require police officer certification. However, most law enforcement roles that involve policing duties require completion of police academy training and certification, and non-officer roles typically do not have the same authority or responsibilities as sworn officers.

What is an entry level police department job?

Entry level police department jobs typically refer to positions such as Police Officer, Patrol Officer, or Police Recruit. These roles are responsible for enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, patrolling assigned areas, conducting investigations, and writing reports. Candidates usually must meet minimum education and physical requirements, pass written tests and background checks, and complete police academy training. Entry level officers work under the supervision of experienced officers and may have opportunities for advancement with experience and further training.

What types of training and mentorship can new hires expect in an entry level police department role?

Newly hired entry-level police officers typically undergo a comprehensive training program that includes both classroom instruction and field training. Recruits attend a police academy where they learn about laws, procedures, defensive tactics, and community policing. After graduation, they are usually paired with experienced officers through a Field Training Officer (FTO) program, providing hands-on mentorship and guidance as they transition into active duty. This structured support system helps new officers build skills, confidence, and professionalism while adjusting to the unique demands of law enforcement.

What do entry level police officers do?

Entry level police officers perform duties such as patrolling neighborhoods, responding to emergency calls, enforcing laws, conducting investigations, and writing reports. They often work under supervision, complete training at a police academy, and may use tools like radios and patrol vehicles to maintain public safety.

What is the difference between Entry Level Police Department vs Police Officer?

AspectEntry Level Police DepartmentPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy trainingHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, patrol, community engagementLaw enforcement agencies, patrol, investigations
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal, state, or federal agenciesMunicipal, state, or federal agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Police Department roles typically refer to the initial positions within law enforcement agencies, requiring basic credentials and training. Police Officers are the standard frontline personnel performing patrols, investigations, and community safety duties. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Entry Level Police Department' emphasizes the starting point, while 'Police Officer' describes the role itself.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level police officer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Police Officer, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, and a clean background, often followed by successful completion of police academy training. Familiarity with law enforcement tools, such as radios, firearms, body cameras, and report management systems, is essential. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and integrity help officers build trust and effectively manage high-pressure situations. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring public safety, upholding the law, and fostering positive community relations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Police Department jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Police Department jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Police Department jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Police Department job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police Department job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,335 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

$54K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 15 hours ago


City Of Hampton (Virginia) rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

570th of 842 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Function "Join the City of Hampton team. As a proud V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) employer and a designated Military Spouse-Friendly Employer, we are committed to supporting veterans and military spouses. We offer a welcoming and inclusive workplace, recognizing the unique skills and experiences that military families bring." Are you committed to public service, professionalism, and a peaceful community

Make a real difference to the people in your community, immediately. If you possess integrity, and strong communication skills, you can make a difference with the Hampton Police Division. Come work for the City of Hampton, a vibrant waterfront community, celebrating and embracing 400 years of history and innovation, creating an even more dynamic future.

We are located in the center of the Hampton Roads region and offer lots of waterfront fun, rich and diverse history, and a vibrant restaurant scene. Hampton offers excellent benefits and promotes career and personal development. Benefits include enrollment in the Virginia Retirement System, flexible and/or remote work opportunities for certain positions, excellent healthcare insurance, and other fringe benefits.

This community driven role patrols an assigned district during one of two shifts to enforce the ordinances and statutes of the City of Hampton and State of Virginia. May be assigned to various units within the Hampton Police Division. Examples of Work Entry level position.

Requires attendance at Police Academy and period of probationary status prior to permanent appointment. Upon successful completion of Police Training Academy and all certifications required by Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services incumbent shall be administratively upgraded to the position of Police Officer with a salary of $58,752.00 Minimum Requirements Graduation from an accredited high school course of study or successful completion of a GED; college level course work in Police Science or related field of study preferred. Requires attendance at Police Academy and period of probationary status prior to permanent appointment

No prior experience is required. Must possess a valid driver's license and must have and maintain a satisfactory driver's record based on the City of Hampton's criteria. Must pass City physical examination, background investigation (to include polygraph examination), and physical agility examination.

This position is safety sensitive and is subject to testing for alcohol and controlled substances in accordance with the City's current substance abuse policy. Must be at least twenty (20) years of age at time of application. Additional Requirements May require working beyond a standard 40-hour work week to include evenings and weekends.

Requires frequent travel throughout the city. May be rotated to any Police Recruit position within the Police Division. Must be able to maintain the ability to provide credible testimony in court, to the magistrate and in other situations where credibility will be of importance.

A sustained finding of untruthfulness at the conclusion of an internal investigation may result in immediate termination. The incumbent may be considered "essential personnel" during city emergency situations, or at the direction of the City Manager or designee which may include long hours and unusual schedules. Click here for a complete job description.

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