What are the responsibilities and job description for the Police Officer (Certified/Sworn) position at City of Harrisonburg?
$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 information in the Harrisonburg Police Officer Candidate Information Packet and be sure to come back 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, an exact salary will be dependent upon the selected candidate's qualifications/experience and in compliance with City policy. As a Police Officer with HPD, you'll engage in diverse law enforcement activities, conduct investigations into criminal activities, ensure public safety, provide courtroom testimony, maintain and organize records, prepare detailed reports, and perform other duties as assigned.
The Police Officer role has a preferred hiring range of $26.86 - $29.22 per hour (equivalent to $55,868 - $60,777 annually); however, an exact salary will be dependent upon the selected candidate's qualifications/experience and in compliance with City policy. As a Police Officer with HPD, you'll engage in diverse law enforcement activities, conduct investigations into criminal activities, ensure public safety, provide courtroom testimony, maintain and organize records, prepare detailed reports, and perform other duties as assigned.
| *$10,000 Hiring Incentive | |
| Date of Hire | $5,000 |
| Completion of Initial Period of Employment (12 Months for Certified Police Officers) | $5,000 |
- Currently certified as a Law Enforcement Officer through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), the Federal Government or another state.
- High School Diploma or GED. College Degree or Military Experience, preferred.
- 21 years of age at time of application.
- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident Alien with an application for Naturalization filed and pending with Immigration Services, if DCJS-approved.
- Valid driver's license with acceptable record per City policy.
- Availability to work 12-hour shifts (currently 6am-6pm or 6pm-6am).
- Must live or be willing to move within a one (1) hour drive of Harrisonburg, VA.
- Ability to perform the physical requirements for this position.
- DMV Driving Record Review;
- Drug Screen;
- Personal History Statement***;
- Criminal Background Investigation, including Social Media Review & Fingerprinting;
- Credit Check;
- Physical Abilities Test;
- Job-Specific Physical;
- Psychological Evaluation; and
- Polygraph.
The following documents are some examples of what will be required at a later phase in the process: Social Security Card, Driver's License, Passport, Birth Certificate, Marriage/Divorce Documents, DD214, Sealed College Transcripts and High School Diploma. These documents are not required at the time of the Personal History Statement submission. When the applicable documents are requested by the Harrisonburg Police Department, you will be expected to provide them.
To Apply: In order to be considered, all candidates must submit a complete City of Harrisonburg online employment application, including previous work experience and education history. This position may close at any time after 10 calendar days. (posted 08/26/2025)
If you have questions after reviewing this information, please contact the Human Resources Department at 540.432.8920 or employment@harrisonburgva.gov. Applicants who require reasonable accommodations during the application process should contact Human Resources. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in the recruitment process.
Veterans and minorities are encouraged to register and apply.
The City provides an excellent benefits package including health insurance, retirement (VRS with Enhanced Hazardous Duty Benefits, & MissionSquare), life insurance, paid leave, and holidays.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
The City of Harrisonburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Salary : $55,869 - $60,778