Police Officer Trainee /Police Officer I - Town of South Boston

A job in law enforcement gives the opportunity to support your community on a daily basis and help to make the world around you a better and safer place. Work in law enforcement can be extremely challenging, but if you are looking to make a difference, then you should consider a career with the South Boston Police Department. A career with the South Boston Police Department offers individuals a chance to experience unlimited professional and personal growth.

The South Boston Police Department serves a citizenry of just under 8,000 residents in an area of approximately 12 square miles. The Town houses the majority of businesses in Halifax County and has the County high school, middle school, an elementary school, and a pre-school within its boundaries. The Department has an administration unit, patrol unit, criminal investigations unit, narcotics investigations unit, school resource officer, animal control officer, and support staff.

The Town of South Boston enjoys a small-town feel, while providing many of the same dining, lodging, commercial, and economic options of larger cities. If you find yourself with some time to spare, take a few minutes to stroll through our downtown shops and eateries, or walk along the historic Dan River.

Salary and Benefits Package:

Patrol Officer I/Police Officer Trainee

Starting basic salary for Police Officer Trainees is $46,350. All expenses are paid during the training period at the Central Virginia Criminal Justice Academy. Upon completion of the academy and obtaining certification from the state, the officer will be classified as a Police Officer I and receive merit increases during yearly evaluations. After a period of 3 years, the salary will be raised and the officer will be promoted to a Police Officer II (Senior Officer) rank. The salary range for a Police Officer II (Senior Patrol Officer) is between $47,380 per year - $56,560 per year. Officers receive their full salary and benefits while attending the academy.

• Retirement program through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
• Mentoring and peer support for new hires.
• Tuition reimbursement and educational incentives for qualifying courses of study.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• All uniforms and equipment provided at no charge
• 10 accrued sick hours per month, 8-hour per month for annual leave (extends to 12 hours after 5 years)
• 15 paid holidays per year
• Overtime pay cycle between pay periods
• Short term and Long term disability
• Incentive pay for:
  • $300 per year for an Associate's Degree,
  • $600 per year for a Bachelor's Degree
  • $900 for a Master's Degree

Here is an example of a Police Officer Trainee's salary:

Base pay: $46,350 Bachelor's Degree: $600.00 Total Salary: $46,950

Qualifications: At least 21 years of age by completion of training academy, United States citizen, graduate of an accredited high school or successful completion of a GED, ability to be courteous and professional with the public even in high stress situations, ability to carry out complex oral and written instructions, excellent moral character, no felony convictions or convictions for misdemeanors involving moral turpitude, excellent health and physical condition.

The Town of South Boston is an ADA and Equal Opportunity Employer.