Police Officer

Police Officer

Police Officers perform a wide range of tasks to promote overall public safety. Work involves protecting lives, property, and the rights of the public; investigating criminal activity; and assisting in any university function that requires safety and security services. Officers also testify in court and prepare accurate, detailed reports. The role requires physical skills and strong ethical behavior, self‑discipline, diplomacy, and human compassion.

• Protect lives, property, and rights of the public.
• Investigate criminal activity and assist in university functions that require safety and security.
• Testify in court and prepare accurate, detailed reports.
• Work effectively with diverse community members and handle aggressive or emotionally unstable individuals while maintaining a professional demeanor.
• Operate mobile recording equipment and utilize Windows, Apple iOS, Microsoft Office Suite, and related software.
• Complete required documentation and reports with accuracy.
• Perform duty during shift work, inclement weather, emergencies, and on a rotating schedule that includes days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Participate in physical and psychological testing and maintain health standards as required.

• Knowledge of criminal law, case law, court procedures, and effective policing practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Problem‑solving techniques for diverse situations.
• Observation and memory skills.
• Ability to interpret, explain, and apply established policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Decision‑making based on standards and accurate assessment of situations.
• Strong teamwork and independent work capabilities.
• Community relations skills and sensitivity to culturally diverse communities.

• Valid Virginia driver’s license (or ability to obtain within 60 days) with an insurable driving record.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Completion of Virginia law‑enforcement training academy and state certification within one year of hire.
• Achievement of VCIN Certificate within one year of hire.
• Successful completion of extensive background investigation, physical, and psychological testing.
• Pass ODU Police Department physical abilities test and POST with a minimum overall score of 70 percent.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Experience in law enforcement, preferably in a university setting, and experience in public safety or security duties.
• Current VCIN and General Instructor certifications preferred.

Essential personnel during emergencies and inclement weather. Requires rotating shift schedule (days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays) with occasional overtime. Must pass random drug testing and a fingerprint‑based criminal history check.

Salary commensurate with education and experience, beginning at $52,000.

It is the policy of Old Dominion University to provide equal employment, educational and social opportunities for all persons, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation or genetic information. Individuals from minoritized communities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation, please contact the Division of Talent Management and Culture at .