Job Title:

Patrol Officer Trainee Location:

Town of St Paul Police Department Employment Type:

Full-Time Salary Range:

$16.00 per Hour DOE Position Summary The Patrol Officer Trainee is an entry-level, non-certified law enforcement position designed to prepare individuals for full certification as a Virginia law enforcement officer through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). The Trainee performs basic non-enforcement and limited law enforcement support duties while attending or awaiting entry into an approved police academy. Upon successful completion of academy training and field training requirements, the employee will be promoted to Patrol Officer. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Training and Certification Attends and successfully completes all phases of a DCJS-approved police academy. Participates fully in academic coursework, physical training, and skills evaluations. Learns and demonstrates proficiency in Virginia criminal law, traffic enforcement, report writing, defensive tactics, firearms, and emergency vehicle operations. Participates in post-academy field training under supervision of certified officers. Maintains attendance, performance, and conduct standards required by the academy and department. Pre-Certification Duties (Prior to Academy or Graduation) Performs clerical and administrative support within the police department. Assists certified officers with calls for service, traffic control, and public events. Participates in community engagement activities, school programs, and neighborhood patrols in a support capacity. Gains familiarity with patrol procedures, radio communication, and report preparation. Maintains department vehicles, equipment, and facilities as assigned. Post-Certification Transition Upon completion of the academy and DCJS certification, participates in the department's Field Training Officer (FTO) program. Demonstrates readiness to perform full patrol duties independently. Transitions to Patrol Officer status after successful completion of field training and evaluation. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to learn laws, ordinances, and department policies. Willingness to develop skills in observation, decision-making, and communication. Ability to follow instructions, accept feedback, and perform duties with integrity and professionalism. Strong physical fitness, attention to detail, and emotional maturity. Commitment to public service, ethics, and community-oriented policing. Education and Experience Requirements High school diploma or equivalent required; college coursework in Criminal Justice or related field preferred. Must be at least 18 years of age. No prior law enforcement experience required. Licenses and Certifications Valid Virginia driver's license required. Must meet all minimum eligibility standards established by Virginia DCJS, including background investigation, medical exam, drug screening, and psychological evaluation. Must successfully complete a DCJS-approved Basic Law Enforcement Academy within one (1) year of hire. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions Work involves rigorous physical training and exposure to stressful situations during academy and field training. Requires running, climbing, lifting, defensive tactics, and firearm qualification. Must maintain physical fitness and meet all health, moral, and character standards of the St. Paul Police Department. Shift work, nights, weekends, and holidays may be required after certification.

Benefits:

• Total compensation includes an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, and life insurance plans. The employee portion of the Anthem Blue Cross/Blue Shield Plan is 10 percent.
• In addition to these benefits, the Town of St Paul Participates in the Virginia Retirement System and Virginia Hazard Duty Retirement.
• Take home vehicles within a reasonable distance.
• Christmas Bonus.

How to

Apply:

Applications can be received at the Town Hall, 16531 Russell St., St. Paul, VA 24283 or mailed to Chief of Police, PO Box 66, St. Paul, VA 24283 to be considered. An employment application can be picked up and submitted at the Town Hall between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Submissions must be turned in at the Town Hall and a background check release must be signed. If you have any questions or wish to request an application by phone, you may contact the Town Hall at 276-762-5297 or you can print an application from our website at www.stpaulva.org (Town Hall tab). This position will remain open until filed. The Town of St Paul is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.

Pay:

From $16.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person