Police Officer Recruit #JR-00127

The Virginia Beach Police Department is committed to safeguarding our community and building trust with the citizens we serve. Our team of dedicated professionals works tirelessly to uphold the highest standards of integrity, service, and excellence, ensuring that Virginia Beach remains a safe and welcoming place to live, work, and visit.

About the Role

As a Police Recruit, you will embark on a meaningful career that empowers you to protect lives, uphold the law, and foster positive relationships within the community. You’ll receive comprehensive training and mentorship from seasoned officers to prepare you for success.

Responsibilities

• Protect and serve the community
• Investigate criminal activity
• Provide emergency response services
• Work collaboratively with other law enforcement agencies
• Ensure public safety through proactive patrols and community engagement

Requirements

• At least 20 years of age to begin the process and 21 at the time of academy graduation
• A U.S. citizen at time of employment (or application in process and citizenship expected by academy graduation)
• Able to successfully complete testing and have an acceptable background investigation, including polygraph exam
• Eligible for issuance of a handgun permit by the Commonwealth of Virginia
• Eligible for access to the NCIC/VCIN network administered by the Virginia State Police
• Eligible for Department of Criminal Justice Services certification

Qualifications

• High school or GED; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities
• Must be classified as fit for employment by the Occupational Health Office and able to pass the Department’s annual physical assessment test
• Must refrain from using all tobacco products on and off the job
• Must have a current and valid driver’s license
• Passing score on a polygraph test is required
• Psychological screening exam is required

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Physical fitness and stamina for patrol and emergency response

Benefits

• Career progression and professional development opportunities
• Competitive pay and a supportive team environment
• Opportunities for advancement
• Work-life balance with benefits and resources to support your well-being

Pay

Upon graduation from the Police Academy, recruits will be career progressed to Police Officer I (Y.22), a 5% increase in salary.

Schedule

The duration of the selection process averages three to five months and applicants may apply up to one year prior to an academy start date. For this reason, applicants are encouraged to apply and participate in testing even if they are unavailable for employment for several months.

The City of Virginia Beach Police Academy holds two Recruit academies a year, which are a 24-26 week training program. Upon graduation, recruits will be career progressed to Police Officer I (Y.22), a 5% increase in salary.

To view requirements and automatic disqualifiers, visit Police Careers qualifications. To view the application process and necessary forms, visit Police Recruit/Lateral application process and forms.

For questions, contact the academy staff at 757-385-6987.

Note: The pre-employment medical exam includes drug testing for a variety of substances, including marijuana. Additional requirements:

• DMV Transcript
• Physical
• Psychological Screening
• Polygraph

The City of Virginia Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer.