Entry Level
The Arlington County Police Department seeks qualified entry-level police officer applicants to join our team of dedicated sworn and civilian employees. We serve a diverse, urban and engaged community with an emphasis on community policing and problem solving, in support of the Department’s key initiatives: community engagement, transportation safety, and crime prevention and control.
Joining our team as a law enforcement officer has unique benefits and provides challenging opportunities.
What Sets Our Agency Apart
Work in a Vibrant, Engaged Community
Located just outside of the Nation’s Capital, Arlington is characterized by its urban sophistication and close-knit neighborhood charm.
More about Arlington County.
Comprehensive Pay, Benefits and Retirement Package
From recruit to retiree, the benefits offered by Arlington County are competitive and comprehensive. The Arlington County Police Department offers a 37.5 hours work week, with the pay starting at $30.95 an hour following graduation from the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy. The salary for new officers is $60,352.50 and sworn personnel have a 25 year retirement (67.5-81% at retirement), with no age limit. All new hires receive a $3,000 signing bonus.
More about pay, leave and benefits.
An Agency That Values You
The Department’s flexible schedule lets patrol officers work a fixed shift, consisting of 15 days on and have two weekends off per month, giving you more free time to spend with family and friends. The Department takes a holistic approach to officer wellness and has developed programs in partnership with local organizations and other agencies. This programming emphasizes training to provide personnel with the tools and skills to mitigate and manage stress and trauma they encounter on the job.
Learn about our agency initiatives.
We Invest in Your Career
From date of hire, until retirement, officers at the Arlington County Police Department have access to paid training opportunities on leading tactics and emerging issues facing the law enforcement profession.
More about our commitment to training.
Position Highlights
- $60,352.50 annual starting pay
- 25 Year Retirement (No Age Limit)
- Patrol officers work the equivalent of a 37.5 hour work week with 4 and 5 days off at a time
- Academy training paid at full salary
Getting Started with the Arlington County Police Department
This is an entry level patrol officer position, with an emphasis on community policing and problem solving. Recruit officers:
- Must successfully complete their course of studies at the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy and the Field Training Program
- Will be assigned to a fixed shift with rotating days off upon successful completion of field training
- Must pass the one-year from date of hire probationary period
MORE: Read About Our Minimum Qualifications
Start Your Application
Contact the Personnel and Recruitment Unit
Equal Opportunity Employer The Arlington County Police Department makes every effort to recruit qualified individuals from all backgrounds to serve our unique community. We are proud of the diversity across all positions and ranks within ACPD.