Police Officer; Certified​/Sworn

$10,000 HIRING INCENTIVE AVAILABLE TO NEW OFFICERS*

The City of Harrisonburg is currently accepting applications for individuals interested in joining the Harrisonburg Police Department (HPD) who are currently certified as a Law Enforcement Officer through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), the Federal Government, or another state.

HPD offers a rewarding career plus an excellent benefits package, including enhanced hazardous duty through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS). Find out more in the Harrisonburg Police Officer Candidate Information Packet and return to this page to apply.

The Police Officer role has a preferred hiring range of $26.86 - $29.22 per hour (equivalent to $55,868 - $60,777 annually); however, the exact salary will depend on the candidate's qualifications and experience, in accordance with City policy. As a Police Officer with HPD, you'll engage in diverse law enforcement activities, conduct investigations, ensure public safety, provide courtroom testimony, maintain records, prepare reports, and perform other duties as assigned.

*$10,000 Hiring Incentive

Date of Hire: $5,000
Completion of Initial Employment Period: $5,000

(12 Months for Certified Police Officers)

• Currently certified as a Law Enforcement Officer through the Virginia DCJS, Federal Government, or another state.
• High School Diploma or GED; college degree or military experience preferred.
• 21 years of age at application.
• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien with an application for Naturalization pending, if DCJS-approved.
• Valid driver's license with acceptable record per City policy.
• Availability to work 12-hour shifts (6am-6pm or 6pm-6am).
• Willing to live or move within one hour of Harrisonburg, VA.
• Ability to perform physical requirements.

The selected candidates will undergo screenings including DMV record review, drug screen, Personal History Statement, criminal background check, credit check, physical and job-specific physical tests, psychological evaluation, and polygraph.

Applicants will need to submit a Personal History Statement and later provide documents such as Social Security Card, Driver's License, Passport, Birth Certificate, and others when requested. These are not required at the time of application.

To apply, submit a complete online employment application through the City of Harrisonburg website. The position may close after 10 days. (posted 08/26/2025)

For questions, contact Human Resources at  or employment. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application process.

Veterans and minorities are encouraged to apply.

The City offers health insurance, retirement benefits, life insurance, paid leave, and holidays.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

The City of Harrisonburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.