ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Police Officer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ferrum College

Police Officer

Ferrum, VA · On-site

$38K - $40K/yr

A police officer shall : * Identify criminal offenders and criminal activity and, where appropriate, apprehend offenders and participate in subsequent court proceedings. * Reduce the opportunities ...

State of Virginia

Police Officer

Lexington, VA

Police Officer Apply now Job no: 5105733 Work type: Full-Time (Salaried) Location: Lexington, Virginia Categories: Administrative Services, Public Safety, Law / Judiciary Title: Police Officer State ...

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 ...

City of Martinsville

Police Officer

Martinsville, VA · On-site

$51K/yr

Police Officer Department: Police Reports To: Sergeant/Lieutenant Classification: Grade 11 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Minimum Salary: $51,466.07 NATURE OF WORK This is responsible work involving the ...

Radford University

Police Officer

Radford, VA · On-site

$54K - $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 ...

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

$54K - $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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

next page

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 Aug 18, 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 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,615 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Police Officer

Virginia Peninsula Community College

Richmond, VA • On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Working Title
Police Officer
Role Title
Law Enforcement Officer I
Role Code
69071-SW
FLSA
Nonexempt
Pay Band
03
Position Number
29300085
Agency
Virginia Peninsula Community College
Division
Virginia Peninsula Community College (Div)
Work Location
Hampton - 650
Hiring Range
$50,000 - $60,000
Emergency/Essential Personnel
Yes
EEO Category
4-Protective Service
Full Time or Part Time
Full Time
Does this position have telework options? -Telework options are subject to change based on business needs-
No
Does this position have a bilingual or multilingual skill requirement or preference?
No
Work Schedule
Varies based on College needs
Sensitive Position
Yes
Job Description
Virginia Peninsula Community College is a two-year institution of higher education established as a part of a statewide system of community colleges. It primarily serves the residents of the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg, and the counties of James City and York.
The mission of the Department of Police, Safety, and Security is to cultivate a safe and secure campus environment and community, deter crime and mitigate injury, promote positive and trusting relationships with the students, staff, faculty, and community, and to serve the students, staff, faculty, and community efficiently and effectively.
Police Officers contribute to the holistic learning and working environment offered to all who enter the Virginia Peninsula Community College campus. As members of the Department of Police, Safety, and Security, and under the supervision of an assigned department supervisor, Police Officers uphold and enforce the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the rules and regulations of the college. Police officers serve and protect faculty, staff, students, guests, and the property of Virginia Peninsula Community College, creating an environment that fosters a sense of safety and security in a manner that ensures a high level of service professionalism.
This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act) and Responsible Employee (Title IX). Police officers provide information, directions, and assistance to the campus and the surrounding community. They promote compliance with college parking and traffic regulations, direct and control traffic, conduct investigations of vehicular accidents, thefts, first aid events, and other incidents as necessary.
Police Officers investigate and submit written reports on crime-related offenses, traffic accidents or stops, complaints, policy violations, and suspicious activities. In the course of this work, officers may apprehend and detain suspects, issue summons to violators, collect and safeguard evidence needed for prosecution, and give testimony in court or as part of the student conduct process.
Police Officers perform traffic and crowd control on college property and adjacent city or county streets as authorized. Officers will assist visitors by offering directions and general information, posting directional signs for special events, and raising and lowering the flag daily. Officers may transport suspects to the Magistrate to be processed and to acquire warrants and may transport individuals in need of crisis intervention for behavioral health assessment.
Police Officers respond to calls for routine, non-emergency, and emergency services, rendering first aid and/or CPR while awaiting the arrival of medical personnel. Police Officers safeguard college personnel and property by conducting security checks and building inspections, unlocking and securing exterior and interior doors, providing escort services upon request, and patrolling parking lots and adjacent roadways. Police Officers will operate communication equipment and perform duties associated with dispatch, photo identification, parking permit issuance, and special assignments as required. Officers may be required to perform other duties as assigned as necessary, appropriate, and/or available.
Special Assignments
May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.
KSA's/Required Qualifications
Required:
  • Must possess and maintain an unincumbered and unexpired Virginia (DCJS) law enforcement officer certification as a sworn police officer in accordance with the Code of Virginia § 15.2-1705 and related Code sections or be able to obtain certification within one year.
  • Must meet all annual and ongoing requirements for training and certification as listed in Physical Demands with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Must be able to work an irregular schedule, under varied conditions, at all College campuses and sites.

Knowledge:
  • Thorough knowledge of the applicable laws and regulations of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Virginia Peninsula Community College. •
  • Working knowledge of federal Title IX laws, the Clery Act, and best practices in Campus Threat Assessment.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of use, care, and safety requirements for firearms and non-lethal equipment.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of security and safety concepts, principles, procedures, and techniques.

Skills:
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Proficient skills in the use of all police equipment relevant to the job and the qualification of the carried assigned weapon.
  • Sound judgement and effective decision-making skills.
  • Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.

Ability to:
  • Apply and interpret laws, rules, and regulations and give clear instructions to elicit compliance.
  • Perform investigations.
  • Communicate both verbally and in writing.
  • Meet the physical demands of the job duties.
  • Foster good public relationships.
  • Stay abreast of the training, principles, practices, procedures, and techniques of Law Enforcement.
  • Recall specific details of information or situations observed. Train and provide directions to non-sworn personnel.
  • Function mentally and physically under stress in emergency situations.
  • Gather information and write factual reports.
  • Testify truthfully and factually in legal hearings and court.
  • Carry a firearm and qualify on the assigned weapon.
  • Work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Work at all VPCC campuses.

Additional Considerations
  • Experience in an educational setting.
  • Previous work experience working in a college, military, and or municipal police department.
  • Current or former DCJS general and/or Special Instructor Certification.

Operation of a State Vehicle
Yes
Supervises Employees
No
Required Travel
Travel is required.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
CLS_4653P
Recruitment Type
General Public - G
Number of Vacancies
1
Position End Date (if temporary)
Job Open Date
08/13/2026
Job Close Date
08/27/2026
Open Until Filled
Agency Website
vpcc.edu
Contact Name
Email
Phone Number
Special Instructions to Applicants
In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth's Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly called a Certificate of Disability) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans may also apply via the AHP if they also provide an AHP Letter. To request an AHP Letter, use this link: https://www.dars.virginia.gov/drs/cpid/PWContact.aspx or call DARS at 800-552-5019, or DBVI at 800-622-2155
Additional Information
A physical assessment, mental health, assessment, and law enforcement background check will be required upon offer.
Background Check Statement Disclaimer
The selected candidate's offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background investigation, which may include: fingerprint checks, local agency checks, employment verification, verification of education, credit checks (relevant to employment). Additionally, selected candidates may be required to complete the Commonwealth's Statement of Economic Interest. For more information, please follow this link: http://ethics.dls.virginia.gov/
EEO Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, political affiliation, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other non-merit factors.
ADA Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA and ADAAA), to provide, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of access to the application, interviewing, and selection processes when requested.
E-Verify Statement
VCCS uses E-Verify to check employee eligibility to work in the United States. You will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation of your identity for employment purposes.
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.vccs.edu/postings/99810

Apply