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Capitol Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$86K/yr

Capitol complex (buildings and grounds), Members of Congress, visitors, and staff from threats of crime and disruption; preserves law and order; and serves as a deterrent to crime and other ...

Special Agent (Lateral)

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$90K - $147K/yr

Summary The United States Capitol Police (USCP) safeguards the Congress, Members of Congress, employees, visitors, and Congressional buildings and grounds from crime, disruption, and terrorism. The ...

MCP Deputy Chief of Police

Baltimore, MD ยท On-site

$115K - $188K/yr

Introduction The Maryland Department of General Services - Maryland Capitol Police is a full-service state law enforcement agency that enforces criminal and traffic laws in and around state-owned and ...

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Capitol Police information

See salary details

$24K

$60.6K

$84K

How much do capitol police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for capitol police in the United States is $60,629.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Capitol Police vs Security Guard?

AspectCapitol PoliceSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsPolice academy training, law enforcement certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent, security training
Work EnvironmentGovernment buildings, federal property, law enforcement settingPrivate or public property, various settings
Employer & IndustryU.S. Capitol Police, federal governmentPrivate security firms, retail, corporate

Capitol Police and Security Guards both ensure safety but differ in training, authority, and work environment. Capitol Police are law enforcement officers with federal authority, primarily protecting government buildings. Security Guards typically have less training and focus on access control and surveillance in various settings. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Do Capitol Police officers carry guns?

Capitol Police officers are authorized to carry firearms while on duty to protect the Capitol complex and its occupants. They are trained in firearm use and other law enforcement skills to perform their security responsibilities effectively.

What are some common challenges Capitol Police officers face in their daily duties?

Capitol Police officers often encounter unique challenges such as balancing public access with stringent security protocols, managing large crowds during high-profile events, and responding quickly to potential threats on government property. The dynamic nature of the Capitol means officers must remain vigilant and adaptable, frequently communicating with various law enforcement agencies and government officials. Additionally, maintaining professionalism under pressure and ensuring the safety of both lawmakers and visitors is a key aspect of the role.

What are Capitol Police?

Capitol Police are specialized law enforcement officers responsible for protecting the United States Capitol, its members, staff, visitors, and the surrounding complex. Their duties include enforcing laws, maintaining order, and securing the facilities used by Congress. In addition to security, they often coordinate with other law enforcement agencies and respond to emergencies or threats within the Capitol area. The United States Capitol Police (USCP) is the primary agency performing these functions in Washington, D.C.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Capitol Police officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Capitol Police officer, you need law enforcement training, physical fitness, a high school diploma or higher, and graduation from a police academy. Familiarity with security technology, firearms, communication systems, and certifications like CPR are typically required. Strong judgment, calm under pressure, integrity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills are critical for ensuring the safety and security of government facilities, public officials, and visitors in high-stakes situations.

Is US Capitol Police a good job?

The US Capitol Police is a federal law enforcement agency responsible for protecting the Capitol complex and its occupants. It offers a stable career with benefits, opportunities for advancement, and requires training in law enforcement procedures and security protocols. Job satisfaction can vary based on individual preferences for public service and security work.

How do you become a Capitol Police officer?

To become a Capitol Police officer, candidates must meet age and citizenship requirements, pass a background check, physical fitness test, and medical exam. They typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require prior law enforcement or security experience; training is provided at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.

How much are Capitol Police paid?

Capitol Police officers' salaries typically start around $50,000 to $60,000 annually for entry-level positions and can increase with experience, rank, and specialized skills. The pay scale is determined by federal pay grades, and officers may also receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
More about Capitol Police jobs
What cities are hiring for Capitol Police jobs? Cities with the most Capitol Police job openings:
What states have the most Capitol Police jobs? States with the most job openings for Capitol Police jobs include:
Infographic showing various Capitol Police job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,629 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

$71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Introduction

\r\nThe Maryland Department of General Services (DGS) supports State and local government agencies, as well as local non-profit organizations and the citizens of Maryland, by providing facilities management, real estate and surplus property services, as well as security and law enforcement for State buildings. DGS is also responsible for a full spectrum of facilities engineering, design and construction services, almost $1 billion in annual contract administration, and overseeing the State procurement process. Here at DGS, we truly Do Great Service... Consider joining our team! \r\n\r\n\r\n

GRADE

SLE 0001\r\nSelected candidates will start at $37,237/year. Upon completing the police academy and field training, the candidate will receive SLE 0002 / Step 9, $71,342/year.\r\n

LOCATION OF POSITION

Maryland Capitol Police Department\r\nBaltimore City - 301 W. Preston Street\r\nAnnapolis - 29 St. Johns Street\r\n

Main Purpose of Job

The Maryland Capitol Police Candidate Trainee position is the entry-level law enforcement work within the Maryland Capitol Police. Employees in this class attend a Police Training Academy to learn how to enforce Local, State and Federal Laws and departmental rules and regulations.\r\n\r\n\r\nEmployees in this classification must attend the law enforcement academy and pass the Entrance Level Police Training Course required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission and the Maryland Capitol Police.\r\n\r\n\r\nEmployees in this classification are considered Emergency Essential personnel and must be willing and be available for duty at all hours. Employees may be required to remain on duty and report for duty at such hours as needed to maintain the continuous operation of this agency. If you are the selected candidate for this position, you will be required to complete a Pre-Employment Physical and substance abuse screening, which will assess your ability to safely perform the essential functions of this position.\r\n

POSITION DUTIES

A Police Officer Trainee is an entry-level law enforcement role focused on learning to enforce laws and ensure public safety. Trainees work under close supervision and may be assigned various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, with potential call-ins and overtime work. This position is classified as emergency essential, requiring duty during emergencies. Work may involve outdoor assignments in different weather conditions. The role progresses as follows:\r\n\r\nTrainee - Learns under close supervision.\r\nOfficer I - Works under close or general supervision\r\nOfficer II - Performs full duties under general supervision.\r\n\r\nEmployees in this classification may be assigned to work on either a rotating or fixed shift basis, including nights, evenings, weekends, and/or holidays. They are subject to call to duty in emergencies and may be required to work overtime with little or no notice. Upon completion of the academy training, officers will be assigned to a Division at the discretion of the Police Department.\r\n\r\nThe work of this classification involves frequent walking and standing, as well as operating vehicles and firearms. It also requires exposure to potentially hazardous law enforcement and public safety activities and conditions, such as adverse weather and encounters with armed and dangerous individuals.\r\n\r\nUpon successfully completing the agility test, background investigation, and psychological and medical examination, passers of the physical agility tests will be considered for attendance at the police training academy. The Police Academy is an academic, physical, and practical training program that introduces recruits to a career in law enforcement.\r\n\r\nThe paramilitary academy challenges recruits to develop self-discipline, perform under stressful situations, and focus on teamwork. After graduation from the Police Academy, you will be among the most highly trained police officers in the state and part of a family of motivated and proud law enforcement officers.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or high school equivalency certificate acceptable to the Maryland State Board of Education as described in the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission regulation.\r\nExperience:None.\r\nNote:The above educational requirement is set by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission in accordance with Public Safety Article, Section 3-207, Annotated Code of Maryland.\r\n

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

1. Employees in this classification who have not already done so must successfully complete the Entrance Level Police Training Course required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission during the probationary period.\r\n2. Employees in this classification will be required to secure a Police Officer certification as required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission during the probationary period.\r\n3. Employees in this classification may be required to possess or obtain a special police commission in accordance with Public Safety Article, Section 3-209, Annotated Code of Maryland.\r\n

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Selection standards for Police Officer certification are established by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission in accordance with Public Safety Article, Section 3-207, Annotated Code of Maryland. These selection criteria are listed in detail in the Code of Maryland Regulations 12.04.01.04 and include the following:\r\n- U.S. Citizenship\r\n- Must be at least 21 years of age\r\n- Satisfactory background investigation, including a check of criminal history\r\n- Oral interview\r\n- Physical and psychological examinations, truth verification, and drug test (COMAR 12.04.01.04)\r\n- Possession of a driver's license valid in the State of Maryland.\r\n2. Employees in this classification are subject to call-in and, therefore, will be required to provide the employer with a phone number where they can be reached.\r\n3. Employees in this classification may be required to bear firearms and to demonstrate practical knowledge and proficiency in the safe use and care of firearms on a periodic basis as required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission.\r\n

SELECTION PROCESS

1. Initial Contact - Confirm candidate interest and qualifications.\r\n\r\n2. Fitness Testing - Physical fitness test for police trainee candidates, which consists of the following:\r\n- Push-ups: Complete 19 push-ups within 1 minute.\r\n- Crunches: Complete 28 crunches within 1 minute.\r\n- Supine Stretch (Range of Motion): Reach 1.5 inches beyond your toes while stretching.\r\n- 300-foot Dash: Complete the dash within 80 seconds.\r\n- Climbing Over a Barrier: Test your ability to climb over a barrier.\r\n- Pull or drag a 150 lbs Weight: Pull or drag the weight at least 15 feet.\r\n- Stair Climbing: Traverse up and down two flights of stairs.\r\n\r\n\r\n3. Application Review - Assess candidate-submitted materials.\r\n\r\n\r\n4. Background Check - Investigate candidate suitability.\r\n\r\n5. CVSA Test - Conduct Computer Voice Stress Analysis.\r\n\r\n6. Oral Board Interview - Candidate interviews with a 3-person panel.\r\n\r\n\r\n7. Conditional Offer - Extend a provisional job offer.\r\n\r\n8. Screenings - Psychological test, physical exam, and drug screening.\r\n\r\n\r\n9. Final Offer - Confirm official job offer upon passing screenings.\r\n\r\n\r\n10. Training & Certification - Complete field training (FTO), firearm qualifications, and MPTSC certification.\r\n\r\n\r\nIf all aspects of the process are successfully completed, applicants will be placed on an eligibility list for a period of one year.\r\n\r\nIf an applicant meets the minimum requirements to be considered for the position, they will be scheduled to complete a physical test designed to assess the applicant's fitness level and physical preparedness for the academy.\r\n

BENEFITS

The State of Maryland offers a generous benefits package that includes:\r\n- Tuition reimbursement, if funding is available, for those who qualify\r\n- Free mass transit in Baltimore & Annapolis\r\n- Generous paid leave that increases with years of service\r\n- Paid holidays\r\n- Health coverage with low out-of-pocket costs\r\n- Employee & employer contributory pension plan\r\n\r\nClick on the link below for more information.\r\nSTATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Contact tammy.vehstedt@maryland.gov or call 410-767-4986 with questions about this recruitment. The online application process is STRONGLY preferred. Apply online at dgs.maryland.gov - Human Resources > Employment > Current Openings. If you are unable to submit your application online, please send your paper application to: Human Resources, Dept. of General Services, 301 W. Preston St., Suite 1311, Baltimore, MD 21201 by the closing date and time. TTY Users: call via Maryland Relay\r\n\r\n\r\nAs an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time