The Fairfax County Police Department announced on Apr. 15 its Pre-Academy Recruit Program (PARS), a year-round initiative aimed at preparing newly hired officers for the Fairfax County Criminal Justice Academy and addressing staffing needs.
The department said the PARS program is intended to help recruit and retain qualified candidates while maintaining a low vacancy rate. According to the announcement, FCPD currently has a vacancy rate of just 3%, which it describes as notably low compared to other agencies in the region. The department credits programs like PARS and recruiting campaigns with helping reach record applicant numbers, matching levels not seen since 2017.
PARS allows new hires to begin their employment immediately, rather than waiting for an academy start date. Participants are full employees from day one, receiving salary and benefits while following a structured schedule that includes professional development, physical training, wellness seminars, communication skills workshops, ride-alongs with patrol officers, community engagement activities, and exposure to various career paths within FCPD.
The program is designed for individuals from diverse backgrounds including recent graduates, career changers, military veterans transitioning to civilian life, and those starting their careers. It also incorporates participant feedback each session in order to remain effective.
Hiring is underway for FCCJA Session 93 scheduled for August 2026. Candidates who apply now can join PARS without waiting between hiring cycles. The department says this approach supports early career development and helps position FCPD as a leader in regional law enforcement recruitment.
