Patrol Officer (Entry Level)

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

Job summary

James Madison University is accepting applications for a full-time Patrol Officer (Entry Level) in the Police Department. The role involves patrolling university property, enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, and providing public safety services to students, staff and visitors.

Qualified applicants will have knowledge of law enforcement practices, the ability to communicate clearly in writing and speech, and the means to obtain a Virginia driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of the principles, practices, procedures and techniques of law enforcement.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Patrol university property, buildings, warehouses, storage areas and grounds to enforce laws and regulations; prevent crime; investigate disturbances and protect life and property.
• Respond to emergencies and requests for assistance; administer aid; investigate suspicious persons or events; prepare records and reports.
• Issue tickets/citations; manage traffic, parking and pedestrians; conduct accident investigations.
• Operate cameras and police equipment; testify in court or administrative hearings as required.

Skills

Law enforcement knowledge

Oral & written communication

Vehicle operation

Shift flexibility

Overtime readiness

Tools

Police equipment

Weapons handling

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.