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Police Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ferrum College

Police Officer

Ferrum, VA · On-site

$38K - $40K/yr

The Campus Police Department at Ferrum College is accepting applications for a Police Officer. This position is responsible for the efficient performance of required duties conforming to the rules ...

City of Martinsville

Police Officer

Martinsville, VA

$51K/yr

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 protection of life and ...

City of Hampton

Police Recruit

Hampton, VA · On-site

$54K - $60K/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 ...

Hampton University

Police Captain

Hampton, VA · On-site

$76K - $83K/yr

University Police Opening Date: 02/20/2026 Description Under limited supervision, this position is responsible for overall management and administration of a major functional area or bureau within ...

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 ...

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 ...

Radford University

Police Officer

Radford, VA

$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 ...

City of Hampton, VA

Police Recruit

Hampton, VA · On-site

$54K - $60K/yr

POLICE Opening Date: 05/18/2026 Closing Date: 8/17/2026 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 ...

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 ...

Radford University

Police Sergeant

Radford, VA · On-site

$66K - $71K/yr

Police Sergeant Application Review Date: Ongoing Campus Location: Radford City - Main Campus Reporting to the Police Lieutenant, the Police Sergeant at Radford University is responsible for ...

Old Dominion University

POLICE OFFICER

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Posting Details Posting Details Working Title POLICE OFFICER Position Number 00371A Department POLICE Location Norfolk, VA Type of Position Classified Type of Job Full Time EEO Category D Protective ...

Radford University

Police Sergeant

Radford, VA

$66K - $71K/yr

Police Sergeant Apply now Job no: 55000198 Work type: Classified Staff Location: Radford Categories: Other, Public Safety Title: Police Sergeant Application Review Date: Ongoing Campus Location:

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 ...

Chesterfield County, VA

Police Officer

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

$60K/yr

Police Opening Date: 06/01/2026 Closing Date: 10/4/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Minimum Qualifications Police recruit starting salary is $60,147 until completion of training. Upon completion of field ...

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All JobsPolice JobsPolice Jobs in Virginia

Police information

See Virginia salary details

$23.8K

$60.1K

$83.3K

How much do police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for police in Virginia is $60,108.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,100.00 and $64,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 criminal law, investigative procedures, and physical fitness, typically acquired through police academy training and, in many cases, a high school diploma or higher. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, body cameras, and radio communication systems is essential for effective fieldwork. Excellent judgment, strong communication, and resilience are vital soft skills for handling high-stress situations and interacting with diverse communities. These skills and qualities are crucial for upholding public safety, enforcing laws fairly, and building community trust.

What are some of the typical challenges police officers face during their daily shifts?

Police officers frequently encounter unpredictable situations that require quick thinking and adaptability, such as responding to emergency calls, handling disputes, or managing high-stress incidents. Balancing community engagement with enforcing laws can also be challenging, as officers must build trust while maintaining authority. Additionally, officers often work in shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays, which can impact work-life balance. Despite these challenges, strong teamwork, ongoing training, and support from colleagues help officers navigate the complexities of the role.

What police position pays the most?

The highest-paying police positions are typically police chiefs or commissioners, who oversee entire departments and have extensive experience and leadership responsibilities. These roles often require advanced education, such as a master's degree, and many years of law enforcement experience. Salaries can vary widely depending on the size of the department and location but generally exceed $100,000 annually.

What does 4 fingers up mean for cops?

In law enforcement, holding up four fingers can symbolize the acknowledgment of four officers lost in the line of duty or represent a specific unit or rank depending on the department's traditions. It is often used as a sign of respect, remembrance, or solidarity among officers. The meaning can vary based on context and department culture.

How hard is it to get hired as a cop?

Getting hired as a police officer typically involves meeting minimum requirements such as age, education, and background checks, passing physical and written exams, and completing police academy training. The hiring process can be competitive and may take several months due to multiple interview stages and background investigations.

What is the difference between Police vs Security Guard?

AspectPoliceSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsPolice academy training, police academy certification, sometimes college degreeSecurity guard training, certification varies by state, sometimes no formal education required
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, public spaces, crime scenes, emergency situationsPrivate properties, malls, events, corporate buildings
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, law enforcementPrivate security companies, businesses

Police officers and security guards both focus on safety and security, but police have law enforcement authority, undergo extensive training, and handle criminal investigations. Security guards primarily monitor property, prevent theft, and provide access control. The roles differ mainly in authority, training, and work environment.

What Do Police Officers Do?

Police officers are responsible for enforcing laws and meeting citation quotas in their jurisdiction. As a police officer, you patrol the community, investigate crime, make arrests, and issue citations for parking, traffic, and other minor violations. Your main duty is maintaining public order and protecting property. You may work independently or with a partner, and you complete your patrols in a car, on foot, by bicycle, or even on horseback. You have training in weapons use in case of any situation in which you fear for your safety.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

Police departments often accept applicants up to their late 30s or early 40s, depending on the agency's age requirements and physical fitness standards. Age is less of a barrier if candidates meet the qualifications, pass background checks, and complete required training such as police academy. Many officers start their careers later in life and bring valuable experience to the role.

What are police officers?

Police officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for maintaining public order, enforcing laws, preventing crime, and protecting citizens and property. They respond to emergencies, investigate suspicious activities, and conduct patrols within their assigned areas. Police officers also work closely with communities to build trust and ensure safety, while upholding the law and safeguarding individual rights.
More about Police jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Police jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Police jobs in Virginia? For Police jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Police jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Police jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Police jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Police job openings:
Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,108 per year, or $28.9 per hour.
United States Capitol Police - Police Officer

United States Capitol Police - Police Officer

United States Capitol Police

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Did you know the United States Capitol Police is immediately hiring for our many police officer vacancies? Today, the department is made up of more than 2,000 police officers providing armed security and protection for the Congress, the public, and the U.S. Capitol. We embrace and celebrate a diverse workforce, because inclusion makes us all stronger!

SALARY - We have the highest starting salary in the DMV area for law enforcement at $86,530 a year, a lateral program that offers $10,000 retention bonus, student loan repayment program of $80,000 and much more.

BENEFITS - We offer health insurance, dental insurance, vision care, life and long-term care insurance, Thrift Savings Plan, flexible spending accounts, transit subsidy benefits, fitness centers, personal trainers, nutritionists, an employee assistance program and much more!

SPECIALTY UNITS

  • Dignitary Protection Division - Provide armed security and protection for Members of Congress
  • Containment and Emergency Response Team (CERT/SWAT)
  • K-9 Unit
  • Bomb Technician
  • Bicycle Response Team
  • Special Operations
  • Crime Scene Search
  • Criminal Investigations
  • Intelligence and Interagency Coordination
  • Threat Assessment Section
  • Command Center
  • Communications
  • Mobile Patrol

QUALIFICATIONS - Candidates must meet the following requirements to be minimally qualified for this position:

  • Must be a United States citizen.
  • Must be between 21-39 years of age.
  • Must have a High School diploma or a GED certificate.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid U.S. driver's license.
  • Must show evidence of responsible driving in the past one (1) year.
  • Male applicants must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Must successfully complete a full field background investigation.
  • Travel for hiring assessments and training is at applicant's expense.
  • Polygraph, medical assessment, criminal, credit, and tax check required.
  • Must successfully complete all required training.

Come join our team and Be One Of Us!

To learn more, visit: www.uscp.gov/careers

APPLY HERE!

https://uscp.csodfed.com/ux/ats/careersite/1/home/requisition/779?c=uscp

Company Description

Our agency consists of more than 2,000 police officers with a mission to protect the members of Congress, the public, and the U.S. Capitol grounds. We embrace and celebrate a diverse workforce because inclusion makes us all stronger!

Apply