Patrol Officer (Entry Level)

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Harrisonburg (VA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous leave

Health coverage

Retirement options

Well-being program

Tuition waiver

Job summary

James Madison University (JMU) in Harrisonburg, VA is seeking a Patrol Officer (Entry Level) to join the Department of Public Safety and Police. This full-time, non-exempt position starts at $50,000 and requires readiness to work rotating 12-hour shifts and overtime as needed.

You'll patrol campus properties, enforce laws, respond to emergencies, investigate incidents, and support students, staff and visitors. A Virginia driver’s license is required, and background checks apply.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and regulations of law enforcement.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work rotating 12-hour shifts, nights, weekends and overtime.

Responsibilities

• Patrol university property, buildings, and grounds to enforce laws and protect life and property.
• Respond to emergencies and requests for assistance; administer aid and secure evidence.
• Investigate disturbances, traffic incidents, and deter crime; issue tickets and citations as needed.

Skills

Law enforcement knowledge

Communication skills

Valid driver’s license

Job description

Working Title: Patrol Officer (Entry Level)

State Role Title:Law Enforcement Officer I

Position Type:Full-time Staff (Classified)

Position Status: Full-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: Police and Public Safety

Department: 100236 - JMU Police Department

Pay Band:3

Pay Rate:Minimum Starting

Specify Range or Amount: $50,000

Is this a JMU only position?No

Is this a grant-funded position?No

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position?No

Beginning Review Date:9/23/2026

About JMU:

At James Madison University (JMU), we’re more than just a publicly funded institution — we’re a vibrant, welcoming community located on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.
Why Work at JMU?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional journey and personal wellbeing:

• Generous Leave: Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
• Retirement Options: Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee Well-Being: Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.
• Tuition Waiver Program: Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

At JMU, we believe in Being the Change — and that starts with creating an environment where you can grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel supported every step of the way.
Discover what makes JMU a great place to work: bit.ly/JMUEmployment

General Information:

The Department of Public Safety and Police at James Madison University is accepting applications for a full-time Patrol Officer.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Duties and responsibilities are as follows: patrolling university property, buildings, warehouses, storage areas and grounds on foot or in a vehicle to enforce laws and regulations; prevent crime; investigate/control disturbances and protect life and property. Other duties also include controlling crowds, traffic, parking and pedestrians; issuing tickets/citations to traffic violators; reporting traffic accidents and conducting accident investigations.
The successful candidate will respond to emergencies and requests for assistance; administer aid; investigate suspicious persons or unusual events; prepare and update a variety of records and reports; conduct initial investigations; secure evidence and apprehend, detain and arrest suspects. The successful candidate may also serve legal papers as required; testify in court and at administrative hearings; provide escort to students, staff, visitors, dignitaries and persons transporting money; provide information and give directions to employees, clients and visitors; identify hazards which may endanger public safety and operate a variety of communication and police equipment. The successful candidate will be required to use cameras, fingerprint equipment, mobile data terminals and in-car video systems.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Demonstrated working knowledge of the principles, practices, procedures and techniques of law enforcement and applicable laws and regulations.
• Demonstrated skills in the use of police equipment relevant to the job and in the use of carried weapons.
• Demonstrated ability to apply and interpret laws, rules and regulations; to perform investigations and to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
• Valid Virginia driver’s license or ability to obtain before employment.
• Ability to work rotating 12-hour shifts, nights, weekends, holidays and required overtime.

Additional Posting Information:

Conditions of Employment:

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement:

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.

We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.

Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: [phone].

Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance searching or applying for jobs please contact us at [phone] or [e-mail]. You may also visit the JMU Human Resource Office, located at 752 Ott Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807 and we will be happy to assist you.