Forester Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

About Company:

Tucked into the gentle hills just outside Washington, D.C., the Town of Forest Heights, Maryland, is a quiet, close-knit community with a strong sense of identity and purpose. Forest Heights boasts a remarkable blend of suburban calm, environmental pride, and historic roots.

Established in the mid-20th century, the town was designed as a peaceful, tree-lined residential enclave. The name, Forest Heights, reflects both the elevated topography and the abundance of green space—a legacy the town has worked hard to preserve. Today, its streets remain shaded by mature oaks and maples, and its residents continue to embrace sustainability through community initiatives and beautification projects.

Located in Prince George’s County, Forest Heights sits just minutes from the heart of the nation's capital. It's bordered by Oxon Hill to the south and the Potomac River to the west, with the National Harbor development just beyond its boundaries. This proximity to D.C. and major regional destinations, such as MGM National Harbor, Tanger Outlets, and the Gaylord National Resort, gives the town a unique balance: it's peaceful and residential, yet never far from vibrant city energy.

Forest Heights is home to around 2,700 residents, representing a diverse array of backgrounds. Many families have lived here for generations, fostering a deep-rooted sense of community. Others have arrived more recently, drawn by the town's affordability, accessibility, and welcoming atmosphere. The town government, led by a mayor and council, is actively involved in the lives of its citizens, hosting regular meetings, community events, and town clean-up days. The local police department and public works crews are committed and often well-known to the residents they serve. It was one of the first towns in the region to take part in Maryland’s Sustainable Communities Program, showing a commitment to smart growth and green planning. Despite its modest size, Forest Heights is a town that thinks big—balancing tradition with progress, and community spirit with regional connectivity.

In the early morning, you might see joggers making their way along tree-lined sidewalks or families walking children to nearby bus stops. In the evenings, the lights of National Harbor shimmer on the horizon, just beyond the trees. The story of Forest Heights is one of resilience, pride, and quiet evolution—rooted in the past, yet looking to the future.

About the Role:

As a Police Officer, you will play a critical role in maintaining public safety and upholding the law within the community. Your primary objective will be to prevent crime, respond to emergencies, and enforce laws impartially and effectively. You will engage with community members to build trust and foster a safe environment, while also conducting investigations and gathering evidence to support criminal justice processes. This role requires a strong commitment to ethical conduct, quick decision-making under pressure, and the ability to work collaboratively with other law enforcement and emergency management agencies. Ultimately, your efforts will contribute to the protection of life and property, ensuring a secure and orderly society.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; completion of a recognized police academy training program.
• Valid state certification or license to serve as a law enforcement officer.
• Demonstrated knowledge of criminal justice principles, law enforcement procedures, and public safety protocols.
• Ability to pass physical fitness tests, background checks, and psychological evaluations.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to make sound decisions under stressful conditions.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, or a related field.
• Experience in emergency management or specialized law enforcement units.
• Advanced training or certification in areas such as crisis intervention, tactical operations, or forensic investigation.
• Bilingual abilities to effectively communicate with diverse community populations.
• Proven track record of community engagement and crime prevention program involvement.

Responsibilities:

• Patrol assigned areas to deter and detect criminal activity and ensure public safety.
• Respond promptly to emergency calls, incidents, and accidents, providing assistance and enforcing laws as necessary.
• Conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and prepare detailed reports for legal proceedings.
• Engage with community members to promote crime prevention initiatives and build positive relationships.
• Participate in ongoing police training and professional development to maintain proficiency in law enforcement techniques and emergency management.

Skills:

The required skills such as public safety, criminal justice knowledge, and law enforcement techniques are essential for effectively patrolling, investigating, and responding to incidents. Emergency management skills enable the officer to coordinate and act decisively during critical situations, ensuring the safety of the public and fellow officers. Homeland security awareness helps in identifying and mitigating potential threats to the community. Police training skills are continuously applied to maintain readiness and adapt to evolving law enforcement challenges. Crime prevention expertise supports proactive community engagement and the development of strategies to reduce criminal activity.