1

Police Cadet Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Police Cadet

Hampton, VA · On-site

$35K - $38K/yr

POLICE Opening Date: 06/09/2026 Closing Date: 9/7/2026 11:59 PM Eastern FLSA: Non-Exempt Function "Join the City of Hampton team! As a proud V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) employer and a designated ...

Police Cadet

Hampton, VA · On-site

$35K - $38K/yr

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 ...

Police Officer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$90K - $114K/yr

Police Officers hired through the Cadet Program must obtain a total of sixty credit hours within two years of completing Field Training. The probation period of Police Officers hired through the ...

Police Officer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$74K - $132K/yr

Police Opening Date: 01/03/2026 Closing Date: 12/25/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Pay Grade: O18 Posting ... Cadet programs. Opportunity to transfer VRS (Virginia Retirement System) into Fairfax County ...

Police Officer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$74K - $132K/yr

... Police Cadet programs Opportunity to transfer VRS (Virginia Retirement System) into Fairfax County Retirement System (FCRS). * This position includes a signing bonus for fully qualified new county ...

Experience in customer service or law enforcement explorer/cadet program. Must possess or be ... Shift Various shifts, days and hours, may vary, includes holidays and weekends Work Location Police ...

Police Cadet information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$22

$35

How much do police cadet jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for police cadet in Virginia is $22.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police cadet?

Police Cadets are individuals, often young adults or students, who participate in a training program designed to introduce them to careers in law enforcement. These programs provide cadets with education in police procedures, community service, and physical training under the supervision of experienced officers. Police Cadets may assist with administrative tasks, traffic control, and community outreach, but they do not have full police powers. The goal is to prepare cadets for potential future roles as police officers while giving them practical experience and mentorship.

What kinds of training and mentorship can a police cadet expect during their first year?

New Police Cadets typically undergo a structured training program that combines classroom instruction with practical field exercises. During the first year, cadets receive mentorship from experienced officers, participate in ride-alongs, and learn essential skills like report writing, communication, and community engagement. The environment is supportive but challenging, as cadets are encouraged to ask questions, learn from feedback, and gradually take on more responsibilities. This foundation helps prepare cadets for successful advancement within the department and future roles as sworn officers.

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

To thrive as a Police Cadet, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic knowledge of law enforcement principles, and physical fitness. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, radio communication systems, and first aid certification is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, integrity, discipline, and the ability to handle stressful situations help cadets excel. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring public safety, effective teamwork, and preparedness for a future career as a sworn officer.

What is the difference between Police Cadet vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice CadetPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some agencies may require college courseworkHigh school diploma or GED; police academy training required
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, often unpaid or low-paid; supervised activitiesActive duty in the field; law enforcement responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies during training or as entry-level roleFull-time law enforcement personnel

Police cadets are typically in training or entry-level positions within law enforcement agencies, focusing on learning and assisting. Police officers are fully sworn personnel responsible for enforcing laws and maintaining public safety. The cadet role serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a police officer.

Do police cadets get paid?

Police cadets typically receive a stipend or hourly pay during their training and internship periods, which can vary by department. Compensation is often part of the program to support students or trainees gaining law enforcement experience. Some departments may also offer benefits or opportunities for advancement after completing the cadet program.

Is being a police cadet hard?

Being a police cadet can be challenging as it involves rigorous physical training, learning law enforcement procedures, and developing communication skills. The role often requires dedication, discipline, and the ability to handle stressful situations while gaining practical experience in policing environments.

What do police cadets do in the police?

Police cadets assist law enforcement officers with various tasks such as patrolling, traffic control, and community outreach. They often participate in training programs to learn about law enforcement procedures and may perform administrative duties under supervision.

What are popular job titles related to Police Cadet jobs in Virginia?

For Police Cadet jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Police Cadet jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Police Cadet jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Police Cadet jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Police Cadet job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Police Cadet jobs in VA?

For Police Cadet jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Police Cadet job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,485 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

JMU Police Cadet - IE

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$13/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


James Madison University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

338th of 630 rated colleges and universities


Job description

JMU Police Cadet - IE

Apply now Job no: 20002238
Work type: Institutional Employment
Location: Harrisonburg
Categories: Student Employment

Working Title: JMU Police Cadet - IE

State Role Title: 

Position Type: Institutional Employment

Position Status: Part-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: Police and Public Safety

Department: 100236 - JMU Police Department

Pay Band: 

Pay Rate: Hourly

Specify Range or Amount: $13.00 

Is this a JMU only position? N/A

Is this a grant-funded position? No

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? N/A

Beginning Review Date: 09/07/2026

About JMU:

Located in the heart of Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the city of Harrisonburg is approximately 120 miles from Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA. With a population of just over 53,000, Harrisonburg is one of the most diverse communities in the Commonwealth of Virginia. JMU is a selective, public institution with a growing national reputation for offering experiences that lead to an outstanding education and inclusive environment for students, faculty and staff. The student body includes approximately 20,000 undergraduate and 1,900 graduate students, with over 1,000 full-time instructional faculty.

General Information:

JMU Police Cadets will patrol campus and work special events to ensure the safety and welfare of the JMU community and all visitors to JMU. All Cadets will be under the direct supervision of a cadet supervisor and program coordinator. Cadets will at times perform their duties with a high degree of independence, exercising considerable judgement, tact, and integrity in the completion of their responsibilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

* Patrol the campus
* Work on special events
* Secure buildings
* Provide safety escorts
* Be a visible presence on campus
* Obey all requests transmitted by superiors
* Perform other duties as assigned by a Supervisor and/or the Program Coordinator
* Bring any situation of significance or importance to the attention of a superior

Qualifications:

* Must be an active degree-seeking student at James Madison University of at least
Freshman status
* Must be a degree-seeking student enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for
undergraduate; 5 credits for graduate)
* Must maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average
* Must pass a Criminal History Check (Note: Students with alcohol or drug-related
criminal convictions will not be considered for employment.)
* Must be mature, have a neat appearance, and have the ability to meet and deal
professionally with the public

Additional Posting Information:

Conditions of Employment:  

Students must be degree-seeking students, enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for undergraduate and 5 credits for graduate).
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement:

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.
We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.
Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: (540) 568-6991.

Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are a student with a disability and need assistance please contact the Office of Disability Services at (540) 568-6705 or disability-svcs@jmu.edu. You may also visit the Office of Disability Services, located in the Student Success Center, Suite 1202 and they will be happy to assist you.

Advertised: 31 Aug 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 14 Dec 2026 Eastern Standard Time

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend

Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What James Madison University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom