Become a WSPD Police Officer
Serve with Honor.
Protect with Integrity.
Lead with Courage.
The Winston-Salem Police Department (WSPD) is looking for dedicated individuals to join our team of professionals committed to making a difference in our community. As a WSPD police officer, you’ll have the opportunity to serve, protect, and grow in a rewarding career with excellent benefits and advancement opportunities. It’s time to secure the hope and wellbeing of our community!
Why Join WSPD as a Police Officer?
Competitive Salary & Benefits
Earn a competitive salary with annual increases, retirement benefits, and health insurance.
Career Advancement
Paid Training
Community Engagement
Job Stability
A career in law enforcement provides long-term security and personal fulfillment.
Career Opportunities
After completing field training, officers can explore various specialized units, including:
Patrol Division
Responding to calls and serving as the frontline of public safety.
*Must serve on Patrol for a minimum of 2 years before being eligible for a specialized unit. *
Criminal Investigations Division (CID)
The Criminal Investigations Division (CID) is responsible for solving serious crimes, including homicides, robberies, assaults, and fraud. Detectives gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work closely with prosecutors to bring offenders to justice.
K-9 Unit
The K-9 Unit pairs highly trained police dogs with officers to assist in tracking suspects, detecting drugs and explosives, and searching for missing persons. These specialized teams play a critical role in law enforcement operations.
Gang Unit
The Gang Unit focuses on identifying, investigating, and disrupting gang activity within Winston-Salem. Officers work proactively to prevent gang-related crimes and collaborate with community partners to provide alternatives for at-risk youth.
Recruiting Unit
The Recruiting Unit is responsible for attracting and hiring the next generation of Winston-Salem police officers. Recruiters attend job fairs, conduct outreach events, and guide applicants through the hiring process.
Training Division
The Training Division ensures that all officers receive top-tier instruction in law enforcement tactics, firearms, de-escalation, and crisis intervention. This unit oversees recruit training, continuing education, and professional development programs.
Downtown Bike Patrol
The Downtown Bike Patrol enhances public safety in the city’s downtown district. Officers patrol on bicycles to provide high visibility, quick response to incidents, and an approachable presence for residents, visitors, and businesses.
Park Rangers
Winston-Salem Park Rangers provide law enforcement services in city parks, greenways, and recreational areas. They ensure public safety, enforce park regulations, and assist visitors in enjoying outdoor spaces responsibly.
Court & Fleet Services
The Court & Fleet Services Division ensures officers and legal personnel have the resources they need to operate effectively. This unit manages police fleet maintenance and logistics while also handling court-related duties such as transporting evidence and assisting with court security.
Community Resources Unit (CRU)
The Community Resources Unit (CRU) focuses on building strong relationships between law enforcement and the community. Officers engage in outreach programs, crime prevention initiatives, and educational events to foster trust and collaboration with residents.
Gun Crime Reduction Unit (GCRU)
The Gun Crime Reduction Unit (GCRU) is dedicated to investigating and reducing gun-related violence. This unit works closely with federal, state, and local agencies to track illegal firearms, arrest violent offenders, and prevent gun crimes.
Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU)
The Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU), commonly known as the Bomb Squad, responds to incidents involving explosives, suspicious packages, and hazardous materials. Officers in this elite unit undergo extensive training to handle dangerous situations safely.
Professional Standards Division (PSD)
The Professional Standards Division (PSD) ensures that all officers uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. This unit oversees internal affairs investigations, policy compliance, and officer conduct reviews.
Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC)
The Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) provides instant intelligence and surveillance support to officers in the field. Using advanced technology, analysts monitor live camera feeds, track crime patterns, and deliver crucial information during emergencies.
Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT)
The SWAT Team responds to high-risk situations, including hostage rescues, barricaded suspects, and armed threats. These highly trained officers specialize in tactical operations, crisis response, and executing dangerous warrants.
Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU)
The Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU) is dedicated to keeping Winston-Salem’s roads safe. Officers focus on reducing accidents, enforcing traffic laws, and investigating serious vehicle crashes.
Special Investigations Division (SID)
The Special Investigations Division (SID) handles complex cases involving narcotics, organized crime, and vice-related offenses. Officers in this unit conduct undercover operations and collaborate with other agencies to dismantle criminal networks.
Violent Firearm Investigations Team (VFIT)
The Violent Firearm Investigations Team (VFIT) specializes in investigating gun-related violence and targeting repeat offenders. This unit works closely with federal partners to track firearms used in crimes and prosecute violent criminals.
Minimum Requirements
- Must be at least 20 years old at the time of application
- U.S. Citizen
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid driver’s license
- No felony convictions or serious misdemeanors
- Pass background checks, physical fitness tests, and a psychological evaluation
Apply Today!
Click here to learn about the hiring process: WSPD Hiring Process.
Additional Information
Still not convinced? Keep reading to learn more about WSPD training, technology, schedules, and other policies or benefits.
We believe in investing in our officers. From cutting-edge training programs and technology to opportunities for advancement, we are dedicated to helping you reach your full potential. Together, we build bridges with the community we serve, fostering trust and collaboration.
Schedule
As a Patrol Officer, you work the 4 on and 4 off schedule with permanent shifts – allowing you to have approximately 15 days a month off. Permanent shifts are proven to reduce stress on the body and enable Officers to maintain a healthier home life. When beginning a career with the WSPD, you are required to start in the Patrol Division until eligible for specialized units.
Take Home Car Policy
The WSPD offers a unique take home car policy that allows sworn officers the freedom to drive to and from work and to off-duty assignments in marked patrol cars. Officers can take home cars up to 60 miles outside of the center of downtown Winston-Salem!
Family Benefits
At the WSPD, we value our staff members and ensure family always comes first. As a part of this commitment to our staff members, we offer 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents, family insurance plans (health, dental, vision & pet), and an additional City retirement plan.
WSPD Training Benefits
Training
As a premier law enforcement agency, we ensure our recruits receive more than 1,000 hours of academy training – exceeding the state requirement by over 400 hours. Upon completion of graduation, police officer trainees will be paired with a veteran field training officer for one on one training to ensure classroom skills translate to real life application. The WSPD prides itself on having a reputation in our State for providing top notch training to officers and professional staff members.
Technology
We are an agency focused on utilizing technology. We ensure our staff members are equipped with the most up to date software and systems needed to complete job duties effectively. We have one of the top performing Real Time Crime Centers (RTCC) in our area that utilizes Shotspotter, Live 911, Camera Integration, and more. In addition, we use online reporting to reduce call volume for Patrol Officers and provide each officer with an in-car computer.
Extra Incentives
- FREE YWCA Membership
- Uniforms & Equipment Provided by our Agency, including Boot Vouchers
- Vacation Buyback Program
- Relocation Assistance up to $1500
Special Weapons and Tactics
Honor Guard
K9 Unit
Traffic Enforcement
