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Police Officer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Arlington County, VA

Police Officer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$90K - $114K/yr

Learn more about a career as a Police Officer with Arlington County. Responsibilities Joining our team as a law enforcement officer has unique benefits and provides challenging opportunities: * Work ...

Old Dominion University

POLICE OFFICER

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Posting Details Position Information Role Title Law Enforcement Officer II Role Code 69072 Pay Band 04 Posting Details Working Title POLICE OFFICER Position Number 00371A Department POLICE Location ...

Radford University

Police Officer

Radford, VA · On-site

$56K - $60K/yr

Police Officer Job no: 55000143 Work type: Classified Staff Location: Radford Categories: Public Safety Title: Police Officer Application Review Date: Ongoing Campus Location: Radford City - Main ...

Radford University

Police Officer

Radford, VA

$56K - $60K/yr

Police Officer Apply now Job no: 55000143 Work type: Classified Staff Location: Radford Categories: Public Safety Title: Police Officer Application Review Date: Ongoing Campus Location: Radford City ...

Prince William County, VA

Police Officer

VA · On-site

$74K - $133K/yr

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 ...

Veterans Health Administration

Police Officer

Hampton, VA · On-site

$45K - $98K/yr

Information such as "I was a Patrolman", "I was a Police Officer for a number of years," or "I enforced Federal, State, county, and laws" is insufficient to determine your qualifications. Experience ...

Veterans Health Administration

Police Officer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$45K - $98K/yr

Information such as "I was a Patrolman", "I was a Police Officer for a number of years," or "I enforced Federal, State, county, and laws" is insufficient to determine your qualifications. Experience ...

LSU AgCenter

Police Officer 3

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$21.27/hr

Police Officer 3 Position Type:Classified Department:LSUA FA - Police - Uniform Patrol (Albert M Brown (00009252)) Work Location:LSU - Alexandria Pay Grade:Classified Protective Services 169700 ...

University of Virginia

Police Officer

Wise, VA · On-site

$46K - $52K/yr

The Police Officer is responsible for helping maintain a safe and secure campus environment. Primary duties include patrolling campus grounds and buildings, responding to calls for service and ...

Veterans Health Administration

Police Officer

Salem, VA · On-site

$45K - $98K/yr

Information such as "I was a Patrolman", "I was a Police Officer for a number of years," or "I enforced Federal, State, county, and laws" is insufficient to determine your qualifications. Experience ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPolice Officer JobsPolice Officer Jobs in Virginia

Police Officer information

See Virginia salary details

$32.2K

$61.6K

$102.6K

How much do police officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for police officer 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 is a police officer?

Police officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for maintaining public order, enforcing laws, preventing crime, and protecting citizens and property. They patrol communities, respond to emergencies, investigate incidents, and make arrests when necessary. Police officers also engage with the community to build trust and ensure safety. Their duties can vary based on their assignment and jurisdiction, but their primary goal is to uphold the law and serve the public.

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

To thrive as a Police Officer, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement procedures, criminal law, physical fitness, and typically must complete police academy training and obtain relevant certification. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, body cameras, patrol vehicles, and incident reporting systems is standard. Strong interpersonal skills, integrity, critical thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set exceptional officers apart. These skills are crucial for maintaining public safety, effective problem-solving, and upholding trust within the community.

What does a police officer do?

The particular duties of a police officer depend primarily on the jurisdiction in which they serve. In large cities, officers are typically assigned general job duties or are appointed to a department or unit that covers certain types of crimes, such as murder, fraud, rape, or drug-trafficking. These units have special objectives, and the officers within the unit are trained to investigate these specialized crimes. Officers in co-ops, townships, and other rural settings often handle all law enforcement tasks, from basic traffic infractions to home invasions to murder cases. The primary job of a police officer is to keep the neighborhoods and streets safe.

What are some common challenges police officers face during their shifts, and how do they typically manage them?

Police officers often encounter unpredictable and high-pressure situations, such as responding to emergencies, diffusing conflicts, or dealing with distressed individuals. Managing stress, maintaining clear communication, and adhering to protocols are essential for handling these challenges effectively. Officers typically rely on teamwork, ongoing training, and support from their colleagues and supervisors to navigate difficult scenarios and ensure both public safety and their own well-being.

What is the difference between Police Officer vs Sheriff Deputy?

AspectPolice OfficerSheriff Deputy
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy certificationHigh school diploma or GED, police academy certification
Work EnvironmentCity or municipal police departments, urban areasCounty jails, rural areas, county law enforcement
Employer & IndustryCity governments, local law enforcementCounty governments, local law enforcement
Common Search & ComparisonPolice OfficerSheriff Deputy

Police Officers and Sheriff Deputies share similar qualifications and work environments, often performing law enforcement duties in different jurisdictions. Police Officers typically serve city areas, while Sheriff Deputies work in county settings, including rural regions and jails. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital to local law enforcement agencies.

How hard is it to get hired as a police officer?

Getting hired as a police officer typically involves meeting minimum requirements such as age, education, and background checks, passing physical fitness tests, and completing a police academy training program. The selection process can be competitive, with many applicants vying for limited positions, and often includes written exams, interviews, and psychological evaluations.

Is 27 too late to become a police officer?

Becoming a police officer at age 27 is generally feasible, as many departments accept applicants in their late 20s and beyond. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass physical and background tests, and complete police academy training, which can be started at various ages. Age limits vary by department, but 27 is often within the acceptable range for entry-level applicants.
More about Police Officer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Officer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Police Officer jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Police Officer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Police Officer job openings:

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

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

Police Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Officer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,615 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Police Officer & Lateral Police Officer

Henrico County Police Division

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Henrico County rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 855 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Company Description The Henrico County Police Division is a public-safety agency committed to equality, civic trust, and a safe, thriving community. Guided by a mission of innovative and collaborative policing, the Division focuses on building strong relationships with residents and partners. Its work is grounded in honor, professionalism, and a firm adherence to the rule of law. Team members are dedicated to preventing crime, preserving order, and ensuring public safety while treating everyone with dignity and compassion. The Division maintains high standards of accountability, upholding constitutional ideals and the principles of a democratic society.

Role Description This full-time on-site role, based in Richmond, VA, includes positions for Police Officer and Lateral Police Officer. Team members perform community-focused patrols, respond to calls for service, enforce local, state, and federal laws, and promote traffic and public safety. Daily duties include conducting preliminary and follow-up investigations, collecting and preserving evidence, writing clear and accurate reports, and testifying in court when needed. Police Officers and Lateral Police Officers collaborate with other officers, public-safety agencies, and community partners to prevent crime and resolve conflicts. The role also involves ongoing training, adherence to departmental policies, and engagement in outreach activities to strengthen community trust.

Qualifications

  • Demonstrated knowledge of law enforcement practices, including experience as a Police Officer or in related police roles.
  • Ability to conduct criminal investigations, including gathering, documenting, and preserving evidence in accordance with legal standards.
  • Understanding of modern policing methods, public-safety procedures, and community-oriented law enforcement.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and effective interaction with diverse community members.
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure, use sound judgment, and make rapid decisions in high-stress situations.
  • Physical fitness and ability to perform essential job functions, including patrol, apprehension, and emergency response duties.
  • Basic computer proficiency and ability to learn law enforcement technologies and record-management systems.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; relevant college coursework, military experience, or prior law enforcement experience is beneficial.
  • Eligibility to obtain and maintain all required certifications, successful completion of background checks, and adherence to ethical and professional standards.

What Henrico County employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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