Patrol Officer (Virginia Certified)

James Madison University; Harrisonburg (VA); On-site; USD 49,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous leave and holidays

Comprehensive health coverage

Retirement benefits through VRSA

Tuition waiver program

Job summary

James Madison University is seeking a Virginia Certified Patrol Officer. This full-time position is within the Police Department and involves patrolling campus property, responding to emergencies, and enforcing laws to ensure public safety.

Starting pay is $54,000 with eligibility for overtime and benefits; on-site employment with a rotating shift schedule. Qualifications include VA DCJS certification, NCIC/VICIN B level, and a valid Virginia driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated working knowledge of law enforcement principles, practices, procedures and applicable laws.
• Demonstrated skills in using police equipment relevant to the job and in handling carried weapons.
• Ability to apply and interpret laws, rules and regulations; perform investigations and communicate effectively in writing and speech.
• Valid Virginia driver’s license or ability to obtain before employment.

Responsibilities

• Patrol university property, buildings, vehicles and grounds to enforce laws and protect life and property.
• Respond to emergencies, control crowds, manage traffic and issue citations as needed.
• Conduct initial investigations, secure evidence and apprehend suspects; prepare reports and testify when required.

Skills

Law enforcement knowledge

Written and oral communication

Police equipment proficiency

Criminal investigations

Virginia driver’s license

Shift work ability

Tools

VA DCJS police certification

NCIC/VICIN B level

Job description

Patrol Officer (Virginia Certified)

• 20002182
• Police and Public Safety
• Police Department
• Full-time Staff (Classified)
• Opening on: Aug 4 2026
• Administration and Finance
• 100236 - JMU Police Department

Working Title: Patrol Officer (Virginia Certified)

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: $54,000.00

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: 08/12/2026

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

• VA DCJS police certification and NCIC/VICIN B level 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

Employees assigned to night shift qualify for shift differential pay in addition to their base salary.

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.