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

GDIT

SR Operations Center Analyst

Sterling, VA · On-site

$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

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 ...

Peraton

Executive Protocol Coordinator

Mclean, VA · On-site

$27.50 - $37.25/hr

Directors' Protective Staff, Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Secret Service). * Experience working in an executive secretariat or protocol environment. Peraton Overview Peraton is a next-generation ...

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Diplomatic Security Service information

See Reston, VA salary details

$15

$38

$68

How much do diplomatic security service jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 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.

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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,340 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Security Specialist

Department of State - Agency Wide

Arlington, VA • On-site, Remote

$121K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Summary
This position is located in the Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS), Deputy Assistant Secretary and Assistant Director for High Threat Programs (HTP), Office of Special Programs (SP).
Incumbent serves as a Security Specialist (Special Operations Coordinator, SOC) and the Bureau's primary liaison with the United States Special Operations Command's (USSOCOM) Integrated Survey Program (ISP).
For more information about the Bureau, visit DS.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Coordinates the prioritization of, approvals for, and conduct of surveys of U.S. diplomatic facilities overseas.
  • Coordinates and advises Department partners in the development and modifications to the program's survey methodology, scope, collection mechanisms, and methods of dissemination.
  • Liaises between stakeholders to streamline information, train, and manage resources related to contingency planning with the intention to integrate emergency planning assets and streamline survey efforts.
  • Provides technical support to management to ensure timely, appropriate, and effective military assistance during heightened hostilities, crises, and evacuations at high threat overseas posts.
  • Facilitates diplomatic passport issuance, ensuring compliance with Department policies and procedures pertaining to the issuance and control of Diplomatic Passports.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Incumbent will be subject to random drug testing.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
  • Obtain/maintain eligibility to access Sensitive Compartmented Information
  • Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit: www.dhs.gov/E-Verify/

Qualifications
Applicants must meet all the qualification requirements described below by the closing date of this announcement.
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 formulating security plans to conduct evacuations and other special operations at high threat locations.
  • Experience overseeing or coordinating integrated survey program data to support crisis response, contingency planning, and special operations missions.
  • Experience directing contingency survey support activities to assist organizations in proactively avoiding crises.

There is no substitute of education for specialized experience for the GS-13 position.
Education
Education requirements do not apply to this vacancy announcement.
Additional information
  • To request a reasonable accommodation for additional time on the timed sections of the assessment, please submit your request using the "Request a Reasonable Accommodation" button within the Assessment Application.
    For all other reasonable accommodations at the U.S. Department of State, please contact the Office of Accessibility and Accommodations (OAA) at OAA@state.gov.
    OAA is responsible for reviewing and adjudicating reasonable accommodation (RA) requests for the Assessment Battery being used for this announcement. The following applies to all RA requests:
    • RA requests cover additional time on timed sections only.

    • Applicants submitting a RA request MUST attach supporting medical documentation signed by a licensed, treating medical provider. The documentation should describe the nature, severity, and expected duration of the condition, identify the relevant medical condition or diagnosis, and explain the basis for the requested extension. RA requests that do not contain supporting medical documentation attachments at the time of initial request may be subject to further review.

    • Note: the following documents do not, on their own, qualify for automatic approval of the RA request: Schedule A letters, VA benefits letters, or SSA letters.

    • Applicants MUST submit their application before the vacancy closes, even if pending an accommodation decision.

    • Applicants are encouraged to carefully follow instructions related to medical documentation provided in the vacancy announcement prior to beginning the RA process.

    • Applicants will have 48 hours after their RA request is adjudicated to complete the assessment battery. Scores generated after the allotted timeframe will not be admissible and the applicant will not be considered further for the vacancy.
  • If eligible, situational telework agreements may be permitted with supervisory approval.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement. If eligible, applicants to this announcement may be referred to other similar positions in other Bureaus/Offices in the Department for up to 240 days. Telework eligibility and security clearance requirements may vary for such similar positions.
  • Veterans' preference points are added to the passing score of candidates eligible for either 10-point or 5-point preference. Qualified veterans who have a compensable service-connected disability of at least 10% or more are listed at the top of a certificate regardless of score. Other 10-point and 5-point preference eligible veterans who meet the eligibility and qualification requirements are placed in score order. View information on veterans' preference on OPM's Fed Hire Vets website.
  • Agency & Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP & ICTAP): You must be rated in the Well-Qualified category and submit supporting documents under the required documents section of this announcement to receive selection priority consideration. To be considered Well-Qualified applicants must: score an 85 or above, meet Minimum Qualifications, and demonstrate proficiency in some, but not all major aspects of the position.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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