
MPD IS CURRENTLY HIRING
MPD is looking for men and women of integrity who have strong interpersonal and communication skills, problem solving abilities, a willingness to confront problems, the ability to make important decisions under pressure, and a desire to make a positive difference in our community. If that sounds like you, we invite you to join us in our mission to make Martinsburg a better, safer place to live.
The first steps toward a challenging career as a Police Officer with the Martinsburg Police Department are to complete an application and take the written and physical agility tests. Applications are accepted at any time. Applicants who have turned in an application to City Hall will be notified once the next test date is scheduled.
Police Application Deadline
Wednesday, February 24, 2021 @ 5pm
(applications must be turned in at Martinsburg City Hall)
MPD Written & Physical Agility Test
March 6, 2021
(Applicants will be notified of testing time and location once an application has been turned in.)
BECOMING AN OFFICER
The Martinsburg Police Department is responsible for enforcing laws and regulations designed to protect the life and property of the citizens of our city and to improve their quality of life.
As a probationary police officer, you will participate in an extensive training program. The program consists of field training while under the direct supervision of a field training officer as well as the successful completion of 16 weeks training at the West Virginia State Police Academy in Charleston, WV.
The responsibilities of a Martinsburg police officer include patrolling designated areas to preserve peace and prevent the commission of crimes, enforcing motor vehicle laws and parking regulations, conducting criminal investigations, effecting arrests, testifying in court, and interacting with members of the community to promote safety and well-being in our city. The professional conscientious performance of duties is carried out with limited supervision. The work of a police officer involves considerable risk and requires use of sound, independent judgment.
Currently, officers are assigned to one of three rotating shifts working eight hours per day, five days a week. Each month you will rotate to a new shift schedule (day shift, evening shift, and night shift).
Police work is far from being an easy job, but if you thrive on challenges, variety, and serving your community, being a police officer can be one of the most rewarding jobs out there.
MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS
- Be not less than eighteen (18) nor more than forty (40) years of age at date of application.
- Hold a high school diploma or G.E.D. certificate.
- Be required to have been honorably discharged in the event of past previous military service.
- Submit documentary proof of birth and education. DD 214 is required if the applicant has previous military service.
- Any police officer employed by the City of Martinsburg must establish and maintain his/her permanent physical residence within a twenty-five (25) mile radius of the Berkeley County Court House, located at the intersection of Queen and King Streets in Martinsburg.
APPLICATION PROCESS
- Obtain an application from the office of the City Recorder, or download one.
- File your application with the City Recorder’s office.
- Upon notification, appear to complete a competitive written examination and physical fitness test.
- Submit to and cooperate with authorities in a background investigation as to your suitability for employment.
- Appear for an interview with the Civil Service Commission.
- Undergo a psychiatric evaluation testing your mental stability for appointment.
- Undergo a complete medical examination testing your general physical condition.
TESTING
THE ACADEMY

BENEFITS
- The starting salary for a Probationary Patrolman is approximately $45,472.
- Vacation leave, sick leave, and personal leave.
- Longevity pay, periodic cost of living adjustments as necessary, and merit pay increases.
- Retired officers can receive a pension beginning at 60% of their salary once they have completed 20 years of service and are at least 50 years old.
- Paid equipment and uniforms.
- One-hour minimum overtime for off duty court appearances.
- Take-home patrol vehicles.
- Applicants with a current West Virginia Law Enforcement Certification will receive a $3,000 sign-on bonus if hired.