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Police Department Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Police Department Intern information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$16

$25

How much do police department intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for police department intern in Virginia is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kinds of projects or tasks can a police department intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Police Department Intern, you may be involved in a range of tasks such as assisting with administrative work, research projects, data entry, and community outreach activities. Interns often help with organizing files, preparing reports, observing ride-alongs with officers, and supporting crime prevention programs. The experience provides exposure to various divisions within the department, allowing you to learn from sworn officers and civilian staff alike. Collaboration with different teams helps build a well-rounded understanding of law enforcement operations and can be valuable for those considering a future career in public safety.

What is the difference between Police Department Intern vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice Department InternPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or currently enrolled in college; some internships may require related courseworkHigh school diploma or GED; police academy training and certification
Work EnvironmentSupervised, educational setting within police departments, often part-time or seasonalFull-time, active duty in various law enforcement settings
Employer & Industry UsagePolice departments, law enforcement agencies, governmentPolice departments, law enforcement agencies, government
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Police Department Interns typically participate in educational or training programs within police departments, focusing on learning about law enforcement. Police Officers are fully trained law enforcement professionals responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public safety, and responding to incidents. The internship provides exposure and experience, while the police officer role involves active duty and full responsibilities.

What is a police department intern?

Police Department Interns are students or recent graduates who work temporarily within a police department to gain hands-on experience in law enforcement operations. Their responsibilities can include administrative tasks, assisting officers with research, participating in community outreach, and observing police procedures. Internships are designed to provide insight into the daily workings of a police department and help interns determine if a career in law enforcement is right for them. These positions are typically unpaid or offer academic credit and are an excellent way to build professional skills and network with law enforcement professionals.

What do you do as a police department intern?

A police department intern assists officers with administrative tasks, observes law enforcement procedures, and may participate in community outreach activities. The role provides exposure to police operations and often requires supervision and adherence to department policies.

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

To thrive as a Police Department Intern, you typically need coursework or a background in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field, along with a demonstrated interest in law enforcement. Familiarity with Microsoft Office, police records systems, and basic research tools is often expected. Strong communication, discretion, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help interns stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for supporting department operations, maintaining confidentiality, and gaining valuable experience for potential future careers in law enforcement.
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 Police Department Intern jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Police Department Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Police Department Intern job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,768 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

$68K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Salary : $68,452.80 Annually
Location : Manassas Police Station, VA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 12-00976
Department: Police
Opening Date: 03/05/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Grade: PS2
Position Summary
Applications are being accepted to establish an eligibility list for Police Officer positions at the Manassas City Police Department. After a comprehensive hiring process, applicants selected for hire must satisfactorily complete a 20-week course at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy.
The purpose of this position is to protect life and property; respond to the needs of the general public; deter criminal activity within the community; enforce all state and local ordinances and laws; and protect the constitutional rights of all citizens by performing investigations, special details, and specific assignments.
Essential Job Functions
  • Enforces all applicable city, state and federal laws.
  • Conducts criminal investigations, patrols assigned area and assists in emergency situations.
  • Reviews all documents, papers and notes related to an investigation to allow for knowledgeable courtroom testimony.
  • Speaks with, and interacts with citizens to establish rapport and trust.
  • Establishes probable cause, issues summons, completes criminal complaints, and testifies to Magistrate during probable cause hearings for adult custodial arrests.
  • Demonstrates proficiency in the use of issued or assigned equipment to include: issued firearm, ASP, Taser, OC, PBT, camera, patrol rifle, mobile date terminal, less-than-lethal munitions, body worn cameras and patrol shield.
Please note there are several steps to this process. They are as follows:
  • Complete Online Application / Supplemental Questionnaire
  • Physical Agility Test
  • Preliminary Background Check
  • Preliminary Interview
  • Conditional Job Offer
  • Background Investigation
  • Polygraph
  • Video Based Test (Interpersonal Communication & Decision Making Test)
  • Final Interview
  • Psychological Exam
  • Medical Screening to include drug test

For more information about the Police Department go to:
The City of Manassas, Virginia, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Minimum Required Qualifications
High School diploma or GED; Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Must meet the minimum requirements set forth by of the Code of Virginia.
Must successfully complete required law enforcement training.
Special Requirements
Must be able to pass a background investigation, poly, physical/medical, drug test, and psych exam.
Because this position is open as an eligibility list, it may take several weeks or months before you are notified about upcoming physical agility exam dates. Dates are only released a few times a year based on departmental needs. We appreciate your patience during this process.
**Disclaimer: The use of tobacco products is a disqualifier for consideration of this position and any future applications.**
The City of Manassas offers a variety of comprehensive benefits packages, participation in the Virginia State Retirement program, generous annual and sick leave and 13 paid holidays for full-time employees! For a full review of the City's benefits plans, please visit our Human Resources website at:
01
Do you have a Bachelor Degree or above?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Education (Highest Attained)
  • No High School or GED
  • High School Diploma or GED (Outside of Manassas City, Manassas Park, or Prince William County)
  • High School Diploma or GED (Alumni of Manassas City, Manassas Park, or Prince William County)
  • Some College (less than 60 credits)
  • Associates Degree (Any Field)
  • Associates Degree (Law Enforcement Related Field)
  • B.A. or B.S. Degree (Any Field)
  • B.A. or B.S. Degree (Law Enforcement Related Field)
  • Master's Degree (Any Field)
  • Master's Degree (Law Enforcement Related Field)
  • Doctorate Degree

03
Have you maintained consistent full-time employment with the same employer for the past five (5) years?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have any criminal justice experience? (This includes law enforcement, corrections, internships, etc.)
  • Yes
  • No

05
Law Enforcement Certification (Current Only)
  • None
  • Not Sworn (Jail, Probation, Civilian, Intern, etc.)
  • Federal, Military Police, or P.O.S.T. Certification (Out of State)
  • VA DCJS Certified Law Enforcement Officer

06
Certified Law Enforcement Experience
  • None
  • Out of State Police experience (Less than 5 years)
  • Out of State Police experience (5 or more years)
  • Virginia (Less than 5 years)
  • Virginia (5 or more years)

07
What VA certifications do you hold? (Please attach copies)
  • Crisis Intervention Team
  • DCJS Certified Instructor
  • Other

08
Are you a veteran with the United States Armed Forces?
  • Yes
  • No

09
Military Service
  • Bad Conduct or Dishonorable Discharge
  • None
  • other than Honorable, or General Discharge
  • Honorable Discharge or current (Less than 4 years of service)
  • Honorable Discharge or current (4 or more years of service)

10
Are you bilingual?
  • Yes
  • No

11
Foreign Language (Spanish)
  • None
  • Fluent, Other than Spanish
  • Fluent, Spanish
  • Fluent in two or more foreign languages

12
Are you a current resident of Manassas City, Manassas Park, or Prince William County or a high school alumni of Manassas, Manassas Park, or Prince William County (Public or Private)?
  • Yes
  • No

13
VA Residence History
  • None
  • Resides in VA outside of the Prince William County area
  • Current or former (over 10 years) resident of Manassas, Manassas Park, or Prince William County

14
Drug Use
  • Use of marijuana within the last 30 days
  • Use of illegal narcotic within one year (Cocaine, mushrooms, etc.)
  • Marijuana use more than 1 year ago
  • Alcohol Related Incidents (Driving While Intoxicated, Intoxicated in Public, etc)
  • Other illegal Narcotic Use Over Three Years
  • Never Used Drugs / No alcohol related incidents

15
Driving History
  • Currently suspended, no license, -6 points, or 6 demerit points in 2 years
  • Negative Point Balance
  • Positive Point Balance

16
Arrest History
  • Any Felony conviction
  • Pending charges not yet handled in court
  • Any (other than felony) conviction
  • Arrested, not convicted
  • Never been arrested

17
Are you at least 21 years old at the time of application?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question