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Diplomatic Security Service Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

GDIT

SR Operations Center Analyst

Sterling, VA

$96K - $130K/yr

... services while situated in the DS Headquarters, located in the Diplomatic Security Command Center (DSCC). Additionally, our Geospatial Analysts have to opportunity to provide temporary duty (TDY ...

Imperative Systems

Technical Writer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Imperative is seeking a talented technical writer to support the work of the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service. This position will be a subcontractor to Parsons in support of the ...

Imperative Systems

Technical Writer

Alexandria, VA

Imperative is seeking a talented technical writer to support the work of the Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service. This position will be a subcontractor to Parsons in support of the ...

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All JobsDiplomatic Security Service JobsDiplomatic Security Service Jobs in Reston, VA

Diplomatic Security Service information

See Reston, VA salary details

$15

$38

$68

How much do diplomatic security service jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for diplomatic security service in Reston, VA is $38.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.05 and $42.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is a U.S. diplomat paid?

A U.S. diplomat's salary varies based on their grade, experience, and location, but generally ranges from approximately $50,000 to over $150,000 annually. Diplomatic Security Service agents, a specific role within the State Department, typically earn salaries aligned with federal pay scales such as the General Schedule (GS), with GS-9 to GS-13 levels being common for entry to mid-level positions. Additional benefits include allowances for security, housing, and overseas assignments.

What does a diplomatic security agent do?

A diplomatic security agent is responsible for protecting U.S. diplomatic personnel, facilities, and information abroad. They conduct security assessments, provide protective details, and respond to threats using surveillance, defensive tactics, and security protocols. The role often requires specialized training, background checks, and adherence to strict security standards.

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.

How much do DSS agents get paid?

DSS agents, or Diplomatic Security Service special agents, typically earn a starting salary in the GS-10 to GS-13 pay grades, which ranges from approximately $55,000 to $100,000 annually depending on experience, location, and seniority. With experience, specialized skills, and overtime, salaries can increase, and agents often receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

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.

How difficult is it to become an FSO?

Becoming a Diplomatic Security Service Special Agent (FSO) involves a competitive process that includes a thorough background check, polygraph exam, medical and psychological evaluations, and specialized training. Candidates typically need relevant experience, such as law enforcement or military service, and must meet strict security and fitness standards, making the process challenging but achievable for qualified applicants.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Diplomatic Security Service jobs in Reston, VA? For Diplomatic Security Service jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Diplomatic Security Service jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Diplomatic Security Service jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Diplomatic Security Service jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Diplomatic Security Service job openings:
Diplomatic Security Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Diplomatic Security Service job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,340 per year, or $38.1 per hour.
Lead Personnel Security Specialist

Lead Personnel Security Specialist

US Department of State

Arlington, VA

$121K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

This position is located in the Bureau of Diplomatic Security, Security Infrastructure Directorate, Office of Personnel Security and Suitability, Investigations Division (DS/PSS/INV).

PSS is responsible for determining the initial and continued suitability and security clearance eligibility of Foreign Service, Civil Service, and Wage Grade employees or applicants, Presidential Appointees, and contractors. 

For more information about this Bureau, visit: DS

Qualifications:

Applicants must meet all the required qualification requirements described below by the closing date of this announcement.  

NOTE: Applicants must meet time-in-grade and time after competitive appointment requirements, by the closing date of this announcement.

Time-In-Grade Requirements: Federal applicants must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade to satisfy time-in-grade restrictions, per 5CFR 300, Subpart F.

Applicants must have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the Federal service which provided the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position. Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following:

  • Experience applying personnel security and suitability adjudicative techniques and practices in order to make final determinations in the security clearance process;
  • Experience formulating written case analyses outlining final recommendations for security clearance eligibility; AND
  • Experience reviewing and certifying referrals for adverse actions by ensuring they are fully supported by the background investigation and adjudicative analysis.

There is no substitute of education for specialized experience for the GS-13 position.

Education:

Education requirements do not apply to this vacancy announcement.

Employment Type: OTHER

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