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Entry Level Police Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... entry level dispatchers. All Dispatchers are required to obtain and keep a Full Access NCIC/VCIN ... Police Dispatchers will dispatch calls for service to officers working in the field and maintain ...

This is an entry-level position with no experience necessary. Position requirements: (Responsibilities): * Attend Basic and advanced training (Paid) * Complete (ASVAB) * Law enforcement patrols

Conducts state safety inspections on vehicles in an ethical manner- following all Virginia State Police, Virginia DEQ, and company guidelines * Observes general vehicle condition while performing ...

This is an entry-level position with no experience necessary. Position requirements: (Responsibilities) * Attend Basic and advanced training (Paid) * Complete (ASVAB) * Law enforcement patrols

This is an entry-level position with no experience necessary. Position requirements: (Responsibilities) * Attend Basic and advanced training (Paid) * Law enforcement patrols * Interview witnesses ...

This is an entry level position with no experience Position requirements: (Responsibilities) * Attend Basic and advanced training. (Paid) * Complete (ASVAB) * Law enforcement patrols. * Interview ...

This is an entry-level position with no experience necessary. Position requirements: (Responsibilities) * Attend Basic and advanced training (Paid) * Law enforcement patrols * Interview witnesses ...

This is an entry level position with no experience Position requirements: (Responsibilities) * Attend Basic and advanced training. (Paid) * Complete (ASVAB) * Law enforcement patrols. * Interview ...

SCOPs, who are armed and exercise general police powers, also secure evidence and maintain detailed ... Successful completion of the entry level SCOP training and firearms courses. * Successful ...

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Entry Level Police information

See Virginia salary details

$32.2K

$61.6K

$102.6K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police in Virginia is $61,615.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $73,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Police Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Police Officer, you need a high school diploma or GED, completion of police academy training, and knowledge of law enforcement procedures. Familiarity with radio communication systems, report-writing software, and law enforcement databases is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help officers effectively serve and protect the community. These skills and qualities ensure officers can uphold the law, respond to emergencies, and build trust within the community.

Is 27 too late to be a cop?

Entry-level police positions typically require candidates to be at least 21 years old, with some agencies accepting applicants up to their late 30s or early 40s. Age limits vary by department, but being 27 is generally not too late to pursue a career in law enforcement, especially if you meet other requirements such as physical fitness and background checks.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level police officers during their first year on the job?

Entry level police officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, handling stressful or unpredictable situations, and learning to apply law enforcement procedures in real-world scenarios. Building effective communication skills with both colleagues and the public is essential, as is balancing enforcement duties with community relations. Officers are also expected to quickly master report writing and legal documentation, all while working under close supervision and receiving ongoing training.

What are entry level police officers?

Entry level police officers are individuals who have recently been hired by a law enforcement agency and are beginning their careers in policing. They are typically responsible for basic law enforcement duties such as patrolling assigned areas, responding to calls for service, writing reports, and assisting the public. Entry level officers usually undergo training at a police academy before starting fieldwork, where they learn about criminal law, procedures, and community relations. As they gain experience, they may have opportunities for advancement within the department.

What is the lowest level of police officer?

The lowest level of police officer is typically a probationary or entry-level officer, often called a patrol officer or police officer trainee. These officers usually complete a police academy training program and may need to pass written exams, physical tests, and background checks before being sworn in. Advancement to higher ranks such as sergeant or detective generally requires additional experience and testing.

What is entry-level law enforcement?

Entry-level law enforcement refers to the initial position in police work, typically requiring a high school diploma or equivalent and passing a police academy training program. These roles involve basic policing duties such as patrolling, responding to calls, and enforcing laws, often with opportunities for advancement and additional certifications.

Can you become a cop with no experience?

Entry level police positions typically require applicants to meet minimum qualifications such as a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete police academy training. Prior experience is not usually necessary, but candidates must demonstrate good character, physical fitness, and the ability to learn law enforcement skills. Certification and training are essential components of becoming a police officer.

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

AspectEntry Level PoliceCorrectional Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy trainingHigh school diploma or GED, correctional officer training
Work EnvironmentPatrol, crime scenes, community interactionPrison facilities, detention centers
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsCorrectional facilities, prisons
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Police officers and Correctional Officers both require similar credentials and work in related environments within law enforcement. While police officers focus on patrolling and community safety, correctional officers manage inmates in detention facilities. Both roles serve the criminal justice system but differ in daily responsibilities and work settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Police jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Police jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Police jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Police jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Police job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,615 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Police Officer - CERTIFIED

City of Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, VA โ€ข On-site

$49K - $87K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description The City of Roanoke is seeking CERTIFIED POLICE OFFICERS to serve the community through law enforcement. This position is for those with previous police officer experience. Depending upon experience, Certified Police Officers are eligible for a bonus up to $7,000.

Certified in-state officers have to be verified that they are in good standing through DCJS after they complete all the other background requirements for an Entry-Level officer. Out of state certified officers has to do this as well but there is a possibility that they may have to attend more training as their initial training may not meet DCJS standards since Basic Academy training is not standardized across the nation SUMMARY Patrols assigned beat on foot, motorcycle, bicycle, or in patrol car control traffic, prevent crime or disturbance of peace, and arrest violators. May perform assigned work in either a uniformed or non-uniformed capacity.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. On an assigned shift, operates a motor vehicle or walks to observe for violation of traffic laws, suspicious activities or persons and disturbances of law and order Responds to communication dispatches to answer calls and complaints Assists persons in distress to include mentally ill, violent, criminally motivated and often impaired or socially challenged Makes arrests following service of warrants, personal observation of offenses, and individual investigation with a working knowledge of searchable and seizure; criminal traffic and civil law Participates in criminal investigations, community problem solving that includes recognized community policing tenants Testifies in court, often on days off as directed by subpoena Directs traffic as required and report unsafe conditions in streets or other public facilities Works in circumstances that requires video and audio recordings of daily interaction with the public Prepares detailed reports for permanent record or inter-department use Recovers stolen and lost property Assigned to shift work duty that includes both day and night shift; works frequently weekends and holidays SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES This job has no supervisory responsibilities Examples of Duties QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be legally compliant to possess and certify with an issued handgun according to Virginia law.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE Associate's degree or equivalent from two-year college or technical school with a major in social or police science desirable but not required; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Successful completion of basic law enforcement academy and the probationary period as police officer. Typical Qualifications LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

Ability to prepare reports and correspondence. Ability to communicate effectively with groups of customers or employees of organization. REASONING ABILITY Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

Ability to interpret a variety of technical instructions and deal with several abstract and concrete variables. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Possession of a valid appropriate driver's permit issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia. Successful completion of recertification required by the Commonwealth of Virginia on biennial basis.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.

The employee frequently is required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 125 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. This is a job description and not an individualized position description. A job description defines the general character and scope of duties and responsibilities of all positions in a job classification, but it is not intended to describe and does not necessarily list the essential job functions for a given position in a classification.