Police Department Intern

Police Department Intern

Spring 2025

(Unpaid)

Position Overview:
The City of Falls Church Police Department is offering a semester-long internship opportunity for individuals interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement or criminal justice. As an intern with our department, you will gain firsthand experience in the daily operations of a law enforcement agency in a small but growing city- while supporting officers in various administrative and community-focused tasks.

This internship is designed to provide college students or recent graduates with the opportunity to learn about policing practices, community engagement, and the criminal justice system in a practical setting. Interns will have the chance to observe law enforcement operations, assist in non-enforcement duties, and develop skills that are essential for a career in public safety.

*This is a temporary, unpaid internship that runs January 2025 – May 2025.

Key Responsibilities:

• Observe Law Enforcement Operations: Ride along with officers during patrols to observe routine activities and emergency response procedures (where allowed).
• Administrative Support: Assist with filing, data entry, document preparation, and case management support.
• Community Engagement: Help with organizing and attending community outreach events, such as neighborhood watch meetings or school safety programs. Assist with the Spring Falls Church Community Policing Academy.
• Research & Reporting: Conduct research on law enforcement trends, policies, or local crime data. Assist in compiling reports or preparing presentations for department leadership.
• Assist with Special Projects: Provide support for ongoing initiatives or special events, including crime prevention programs, safety initiatives, or departmental training.
• Shadow Officers and Attend Training: Participate in ride-alongs and possibly attend departmental training sessions to better understand the law enforcement field.
• Other Duties as Assigned: Assist officers and staff in various other roles as needed, with a focus on supporting the department’s mission of safety and service to the community.

Benefits of the Internship:

• Hands-on law enforcement experience in urban village community environment.
• Networking opportunities with law enforcement professionals.
• Exposure to a variety of police department functions, including community policing, crime prevention, and investigations.
• Potential for a reference letter or career guidance from department leadership upon successful completion of the program.

Qualifications:

• Education: Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a two-or-four-year college or university with a focus on criminal justice, law enforcement, public administration, or related field.
• Skills & Abilities:
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Interest in public safety and law enforcement.
• Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to occasionally lift items up to 25 pounds, stand for extended periods, and engage in field activities (as appropriate).
• Other Requirements:
• Must pass a background check (criminal and personal) with no felony convictions or disqualifying criminal histories.
• Must have reliable transportation.
• Must be able to work in-person a minimum of 10 hours and up to 20 hours per week. Hours are flexible to accommodate the students’ class schedule.

How to Apply:

Submit an application, along with a current resume and cover letter, by Friday, January 3, 2025. Selected applicants will interview virtually with members of the Police Department and must successfully pass a basic background investigation prior to the internship offer.

Our commitment to an inclusive workplace:

The City of Falls Church is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We celebrate the unique differences of our employees because that is what drives curiosity, innovation, and the success of our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other status protected by the federal, state and/or local laws or regulations. Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department.

All City facilities are smoke free.