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Police Academy Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer

VA ยท On-site

$74K - $133K/yr

Your pay starts at the academy and the Prince William County Police Department believes in taking care of our Police Officers. We supply your uniforms & equipment, pay incentives, permanent shifts ...

Police Officer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$74K - $132K/yr

Police Opening Date: 01/03/2026 Closing Date: 12/25/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Pay Grade: O18 Posting ... Note: Academy Training is primarily Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. ** *Salary will be ...

Police Officer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$74K - $132K/yr

The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) is looking for individuals to join our team to provide ... Note: Academy Training is primarily Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.** *Salary will be ...

The Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) is looking for individuals to join our team to provide ... Note: Academy Training is primarily Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. ** *Salary will be ...

Police Officer

Largo, MD ยท On-site

$47K - $51K/yr

... academy consisting of 1104 hours of classroom instruction or have been a former certified police ... officer who has been absent from law enforcement for no more than three but less than five years.

Police Officer

Largo, MD ยท On-site

$47K - $51K/yr

... academy consisting of 1104 hours of classroom instruction or have been a former certified police ... officer who has been absent from law enforcement for no more than three but less than five years.

Police academy graduate. * Meet medical/physical standards (foot patrols, prolonged standing, rapid emergency response, physical exertion). * Pass background investigation and security clearance.

Police academy graduate. * Meet medical/physical standards (foot patrols, prolonged standing, rapid emergency response, physical exertion). * Pass background investigation and security clearance.

Police Officer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $114K/yr

Prior law enforcement experience - One year post law enforcement academy experience as a full time ... Police Officers hired through the Cadet Program must obtain a total of sixty credit hours within ...

Showing results 41-60

Police Academy information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$33.9K

$64.9K

$108.1K

How much do police academy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for police academy in Springfield, VA is $64,916.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,700.00 and $77,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police academy?

A police academy is a training school where aspiring law enforcement officers receive the education and physical preparation needed to become police officers. Recruits learn about criminal law, procedures, ethics, firearms use, emergency response, and community policing. The academy combines classroom instruction with hands-on training to ensure candidates are ready for the demands of police work. Upon successful completion, graduates are typically eligible to join a police force or law enforcement agency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police academy cadet, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Academy cadet, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, and a basic understanding of law enforcement principles. Training involves learning to use firearms, radio communication systems, and law enforcement databases, often supplemented by certifications in CPR and first aid. Strong ethical judgment, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for building trust and responding to high-pressure situations. These competencies ensure cadets are prepared to handle the demands of policing, maintain public safety, and uphold community standards.

What are some common challenges faced by trainees during police academy, and how can they prepare for them?

Police Academy trainees often face challenges such as adapting to rigorous physical training, mastering a wide range of academic subjects, and learning to work effectively as part of a disciplined team. Balancing classroom learning with hands-on exercises and maintaining high ethical standards can also be demanding. To prepare, applicants should focus on improving their physical fitness, brushing up on relevant laws and procedures, and developing strong communication and teamwork skills. Approaching the Academy with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn will help trainees succeed and build a solid foundation for their law enforcement careers.

What is the difference between Police Academy vs Police Officer Training Program?

AspectPolice Academy
PurposeTo train recruits in law enforcement skills and knowledge before becoming officers
DurationTypically several weeks to months
CredentialsCertification or diploma upon completion
Work EnvironmentClassroom, training grounds, simulated scenarios

The Police Academy is a comprehensive training program that prepares individuals to become police officers. It covers law enforcement procedures, physical training, and legal knowledge. The Police Officer Training Program refers to this initial training process that equips recruits with the skills needed to serve as officers. Both terms are often used interchangeably, but the Police Academy specifically denotes the training institution and curriculum.

Do you get paid while in a police academy?

Police academy trainees typically receive a salary or stipend during their training period, which can vary by department but often includes benefits like health insurance. The pay usually continues until they are sworn in as officers and begin active duty. Some academies also provide uniforms and training materials at no cost to trainees.

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Police Academy jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Police Academy job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Academy job openings in Springfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,916 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

$74K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Salary: $74,000.00 - $133,652.23 Annually
Location : Prince William County, VA
Job Type: Full-Time (FT)
Job Number: 202308189
Department: POLICE-OFFICER APPLICATIONS
Division: PWC CJA
Opening Date: 07/01/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
GRADE: PD 01
Introduction
The Police Department is seeking a diverse group of qualified candidates to join our agency. If you are looking for a rewarding career, centered on service to your community, apply with us today!
Tomorrow's Career Begins TODAY!
The Prince William County Police Department aims to effectively and impartially enforce the law while serving and protecting our community. The Department is a nationally accredited law enforcement agency providing professional police service to the residents, business owners, and visitors in Prince William County. With an authorized strength of over 700 sworn officers, the Department is comprised of four divisions and 13 bureaus, including patrol and investigative services, specialty units, and support resources.
We believe integrity, honesty, and equality in the delivery of all police services is essential to building cooperation and trust with the community.
To view our hiring standards click
Hiring Salary: Starting salary is $62,000 per year. Your pay starts at the academy and the Prince William County Police Department believes in taking care of our Police Officers. We supply your uniforms & equipment, pay incentives, permanent shifts, medical/dental/vision/life insurance, retirement, just to name a few.
Signing Bonus: Did we also mention the $10,000 signing bonus, payable in 2 equal installments? Additionally, Virginia Certified Officers who choose to join the department may receive an additional $3,000 bonus!
NOTES:
***Hiring incentives will be paid out in two (2) equal installments. $5,000 of the incentive will be paid following the date of graduation from the academy and the remaining $5,000 will be paid after the first anniversary of graduation from the academy. Probationary employees that voluntarily terminate employment with the County, shall repay the net amount (minus state and federal taxes) of the first bonus installment via a deduction from their annual leave payout and/or remit payment of any remaining balance within thirty (30) days following separation of employment from the County.***
In/Out of State Certified Officers Credit: Certified Officers will receive additional benefits:
  • Officers with prior police experience outside of Prince William County, who are certified as Virginia Law Enforcement Officers in another Virginia locality, are eligible to receive 100% credit for their completed years of service, up to a maximum of ten (10) years.
  • Officers with previous police experience as certified Law Enforcement Officers from another state will also be granted 100% credit for their completed years of service, up to a maximum of ten (10) years.
  • The starting salary offered will correspond to the base amount associated with your credited years of experience.

Furthermore, Virginia certified officers who choose to join the Prince William County Police Department may be eligible for an additional $3,000 bonus in recognition of their invaluable experience.
Education Bonus: Applicants may receive a one-time education bonus based on a starting salary as a percentage of $62,000, payable after successful completion of the probationary, as calculated below:
  • 1.5% - Associates Degree
  • 3% - Bachelors Degree
  • 4.5% - Masters Degree
  • 6% - PHD Degree
Military Experience Bonus: Applicants may receive a one-time military experience bonus, as a percentage of the entry level salary for the offered position:
  • 1.5% - Enlisted Ranks (E-4 through E-9)
  • 3% - Officer and Warrant Officer Ranks (W-1 through W-4; O- 1+)
Language Stipend (Spanish Only): Approximately $1,769.57/year annual stipend, paid bi-weekly (Recipient must receive a "3" or higher on test)
Hiring Process
Start now. Our goal is to never lose a candidate because the hiring process takes too long. The selection process takes approximately three months after the initial Police Officer application has been received. Applicants must successfully complete the below stages:
  • Application: Submit online application
  • Screening and Assessment: personal history statement, conditional offer of employment
  • Evaluation, Polygraph & Interview: polygraph exam, psychological screening & applicant interview
  • Final Assessments & Final Offer: medical exam, physical fitness assessment, medical examination, psychological evaluation, ride-along, Chief's interview & formal job offer
Selection Criteria:
  • Must be at least 21 years of age by academy graduation date.
  • Have a valid Driver's License at time of application
  • Have any combination of education and experience equivalent to a high school diploma or GED by date of hire.
  • If you have an active application, you do not need to reapply.

If you need additional information please contact the recruitment staff via email at
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Background checks, which may include but are not limited to: Criminal History Check, Credit History Check, Education Verification Check, License Verification Check, and/or fingerprinting may be required as posted in the job advertisement.
APPLY NOW!
Note: Applications for employment are typically reviewed within 48 business hours and notification on your application status is made via email from our Police Personnel Bureau. Please ensure to check all email boxes to ensure you receive a timely notification of your application status.
Prince William County is a equal opportunity employer.
Prince William County Government offers medical plans with corresponding pharmacy and basic vision coverage, as well as dental plans and a separate vision plan.
Full-time and part-time Prince William County Government employees are eligible to participate in our plans; however, the level and cost of benefits depends on the classification of the position.
The following positions do not accrue leave and are not eligible for holidays or other fringe benefits:
  • Temporary
  • Provisional
  • Seasonal employees
Click on the link below to explore our plans and rates.