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Diplomatic Security Service Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Olgoonik Corporation

Investigative Assistant I

Arlington, VA · On-site

$42K - $43K/yr

In support of the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, the employee serves as an investigative assistant, providing investigative support, management, and operational assistance to ...

ClearanceJobs

Investigative Assistant I Jobs

Arlington, VA · On-site

$43K - $43K/yr

Investigative Assistant In support of the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, the employee serves as an investigative assistant, providing investigative support, management, and ...

Olgoonik Corporation

Investigative Assistant I

Arlington, VA · On-site

$42K - $43K/yr

In support of the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, the employee serves as an investigative assistant, providing investigative support, management, and operational assistance to ...

Olgoonik Corporation

Investigative Assistant I

Arlington, VA · On-site

$43K - $43K/yr

Investigative Assistant In support of the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service, the employee serves as an investigative assistant, providing investigative support, management, and ...

CACI International, Inc.

Program Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

$113K - $237K/yr

The Program Manager will provide strategic leadership, operational oversight, and contractual accountability for a diverse portfolio of enterprise IT services supporting global diplomatic security ...

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Diplomatic Security Service information

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$14

$36

$65

How much do diplomatic security service jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for diplomatic security service in Virginia is $36.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.85 and $40.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the Diplomatic Security Service?

The Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) is the federal law enforcement and security arm of the U.S. Department of State. DSS is responsible for protecting U.S. diplomatic personnel, facilities, and sensitive information both domestically and around the world. In addition to providing security for embassies and consulates, DSS investigates passport and visa fraud, conducts counterterrorism and counterintelligence activities, and ensures the safety of visiting foreign dignitaries. DSS special agents serve in the United States and at embassies and consulates abroad, making it one of the most widely represented U.S. law enforcement agencies globally.

What are some common challenges faced by Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) special agents, and how can new agents prepare for them?

DSS Special Agents often encounter challenges such as adapting to frequent relocations, working in high-threat environments, and managing the security needs of U.S. diplomats in diverse cultural settings. New agents can prepare by developing strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills, maintaining flexibility, and pursuing ongoing training in both security operations and cross-cultural communication. Building resilience and a solid support network are also essential for thriving in this dynamic and demanding role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) special agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Diplomatic Security Service Special Agent, you need a bachelor's degree, strong investigative skills, physical fitness, and the ability to obtain security clearance. Familiarity with law enforcement tools, firearms, surveillance technologies, and federal security protocols is essential, and completion of the DSS training academy is required. Excellent judgment, cultural sensitivity, communication, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for navigating diverse and high-risk situations. These skills are vital to protect diplomats, secure facilities, and effectively respond to global security threats.

What is the difference between Diplomatic Security Service vs Security Guard?

AspectDiplomatic Security ServiceSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsFederal law enforcement training, security clearances, specialized certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic security training
Work EnvironmentU.S. embassies, consulates, diplomatic facilities, high-risk areasCommercial buildings, retail stores, events, residential areas
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of State, government sectorPrivate security companies, retail, corporate
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Diplomatic Security Service is a federal law enforcement agency focusing on protecting U.S. diplomatic personnel and facilities, requiring specialized training and clearances. Security Guards typically work in private security roles with less stringent credentials, mainly in commercial settings. The two roles differ significantly in environment, responsibilities, and employer, making the Diplomatic Security Service a specialized federal agency compared to the more general security guard position.

How much do diplomatic security agents make?

Diplomatic Security Service agents typically earn a salary that ranges from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and rank. They often receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and specialized training in security and protective services.

What does a diplomatic security service do?

A Diplomatic Security Service protects U.S. diplomatic personnel, facilities, and information worldwide. They conduct security assessments, provide threat analysis, and respond to emergencies, often working in high-risk environments and requiring security clearances and specialized training.

What are popular job titles related to Diplomatic Security Service jobs in Virginia?

For Diplomatic Security Service jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Diplomatic Security Service jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Diplomatic Security Service jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Diplomatic Security Service jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Diplomatic Security Service job openings:

Diplomatic Security Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diplomatic Security Service job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, 15% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,469 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

Strategic Consultant, Diplomatic Security

Dexis

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Dexis is a dynamic professional services firm dedicated to partnering with government and community leaders both in the U.S. and internationally to achieve critical social outcomes in a rapidly changing world.
 
At Dexis, you will experience a corporate culture of inclusiveness, respect, fairness, and trust. You will be given the means and mentorship needed to succeed, and your creativity will be rewarded.

About the Position

Dexis is seeking a highly experienced Strategic Consultant to support our capture and business development efforts for an upcoming opportunity with the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS). The Advisor will play a critical role in refining our understanding of the client landscape, validating opportunity parameters, and facilitating strategic introductions to key stakeholders within the DS bureau and relevant incumbent organizations. 

Responsibilities
  • Provide strategic insight into the organizational priorities, structure, and decision-making processes within the Bureau of Diplomatic Security. 
  • Advise Dexis leadership on client engagement strategies specific to Diplomatic Security. 
  • Identify and facilitate introductions with relevant stakeholders throughout the capture and bid process. 
  • Validate programmatic direction, potential scope, and customer expectations for the anticipated opportunity. 
  • Participate in periodic strategy sessions and serve as a trusted advisor throughout the pre-solicitation, capture, and bid phases. 
Qualifications 
  • Minimum 5 years of experience working with or supporting the Department of State, with deep familiarity with the Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS), including sub-offices such as DS/C/ST. 
  • Demonstrated track record of engagement with senior-level DS personnel and contract leadership. 
  • Existing relationships within the DS bureau and/or with current contract implementers in security technology, program support, or operational services. 
  • Exceptional understanding of federal security contracting environments, preferably in physical and technical security, risk mitigation, or countermeasures support. 
  • Prior experience advising capture or proposal teams targeting State Department contracts strongly preferred. 
  • Discretion, professionalism, and a strong sense of integrity in facilitating client-facing interactions. 

Dexis is on a mission to help solve today's most pressing global political, social, and economic challenges and create a world where all people are safe and prosperous. As a Dexis employee, you will be challenged, empowered, and mentored. Our motto is "find a way or make a way" — that's how Dexis goes "all in." How will you? 

If you are passionate about this opportunity, apply now!

Only those applicants who meet the above criteria will be contacted for interview.

Dexis is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, pregnancy, disability, age, genetic information, military service, veteran status, ethnicity, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, childbirth and related medical conditions, including lactation, or any other protected class under applicable law.

As part of a competitive benefits package for eligible employees, Dexis provides healthcare insurance in addition to other staff welfare benefits and perks.

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