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Federal Law Enforcement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

L2T

Federal Law Enforcement Program Manager

Herndon, VA

$127K - $190K/yr

The Federal Law Enforcement Program Manager is a dual hatted position responsible for the execution of existing work and the growth of business opportunities. As a program manager, the candidate is ...

L2T

Federal Law Enforcement Program Manager

Herndon, VA

$127K - $190K/yr

Responsibilities The Federal Law Enforcement Program Manager is a dual hatted position responsible for the execution of existing work and the growth of business opportunities. As a program manager ...

L2T

Federal Law Enforcement Program Manager

Herndon, VA · On-site

$127K - $190K/yr

Responsibilities The Federal Law Enforcement Program Manager is a dual hatted position responsible for the execution of existing work and the growth of business opportunities. As a program manager ...

PBG

Program Manager (Federal Law Enforcement IT)

$118K - $119K/yr

Experience supporting federal law enforcement, homeland security, or other mission-driven federal environments. * Demonstrated experience leading large-scale federal programs involving multiple ...

US Department of Homeland Security

$106K/yr

"The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC), through strategic partnerships, prepares the federal law enforcement community to safeguard America's people, property, and institutions." We are ...

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All JobsFederal Law Enforcement Jobs

Federal Law Enforcement information

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$35.5K

$88.8K

$136.5K

How much do federal law enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal law enforcement in the United States is $88,815.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer, you need a strong background in criminal justice, physical fitness, and investigative skills, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree and completion of federal law enforcement training programs. Familiarity with firearms, surveillance technology, case management systems, and sometimes specialized certifications like security clearance are essential. Strong judgment, ethical integrity, communication, and resilience are critical soft skills for handling high-pressure and sensitive situations. These competencies are vital to ensure effective enforcement of federal laws, public safety, and the integrity of investigations.

What federal agencies hire law enforcement?

Federal law enforcement officers are hired by agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Secret Service. These agencies typically require specialized training, background checks, and sometimes specific certifications or degrees. They operate in various environments, including investigative, protective, and enforcement roles across the country.

What are federal law enforcement officers?

Federal law enforcement officers are agents who work for agencies within the United States federal government, such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, or Secret Service. These professionals are responsible for enforcing federal laws and investigating crimes that cross state lines or impact national security. Their duties can include conducting investigations, making arrests, gathering evidence, and testifying in court. Unlike local or state police, federal officers have jurisdiction across the entire country and often specialize in specific types of crime.

What are 5 federal law enforcement agencies?

Five major federal law enforcement agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Department of Homeland Security's Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These agencies enforce federal laws, investigate crimes, and often require specialized training and clearances for employment. They operate across various jurisdictions and may require relevant certifications or experience in law enforcement procedures.

What is the easiest federal law enforcement job to get?

The Federal Law Enforcement Officer (FLEO) positions with agencies like the Federal Protective Service or U.S. Marshals tend to have lower entry barriers compared to specialized roles, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent and basic background checks. These jobs typically have less competitive hiring processes and shorter training periods, making them more accessible for applicants with minimal experience in law enforcement.

Can you make 300k as a cop?

Federal law enforcement officers can potentially earn $300,000 or more annually through a combination of base salary, overtime, special assignments, and bonuses, especially at higher ranks or with extensive experience. Achieving this level typically requires advanced certifications, specialized skills, and years of service, often in supervisory or leadership roles. However, such high earnings are not common for entry-level officers and depend on agency policies and geographic location.

What are some common challenges faced by new federal law enforcement officers during their first year on the job?

New federal law enforcement officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to the rigorous training requirements, learning complex federal laws and procedures, and adjusting to the structure and culture of their specific agency. The transition can also involve balancing fieldwork with detailed documentation and reporting, as well as navigating high expectations for professionalism and ethical conduct. Building effective working relationships with colleagues and other agencies is essential for success, and mentors or field training officers typically provide guidance during this period.

What is the difference between Federal Law Enforcement vs State Police?

AspectFederal Law EnforcementState Police
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree, background checks, and specialized training (e.g., FBI Academy)Similar requirements: high school diploma or GED, police academy training, and background checks
Work EnvironmentOperate across the country or internationally, focus on federal crimesOperate within a specific state, focus on state laws and local issues
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies like FBI, DEA, ATFState police agencies, highway patrols
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for jurisdiction scope and federal authorityCompared for regional jurisdiction and law enforcement scope

Federal Law Enforcement and State Police both serve vital roles in maintaining law and order. Federal agencies operate nationwide and handle federal crimes, while State Police focus on state laws and regional issues. Both require similar credentials and training, but differ mainly in jurisdiction and scope.

More about Federal Law Enforcement jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Law Enforcement jobs? Cities with the most Federal Law Enforcement job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Law Enforcement jobs? The most popular types of Federal Law Enforcement jobs are:
What states have the most Federal Law Enforcement jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Law Enforcement jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Federal Law Enforcement jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Law Enforcement jobs are:
Federal Law Enforcement jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Law Enforcement job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,815 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Intelligence analyst - Federal Law Enforcement

Bow Wave LLC

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

  • Conducts various analysis to include work on immigrant benefit cases;
  • Performs database and manual queries on individuals referred to the PERC by other Law Enforcement Agencies (eg, Immigration Customs Enforcement / ICE) categorized as possible removable aliens;
  • Conducts calls to Law Enforcement Agencies to determine the custodial status of targeted aliens;
  • Answers calls from Law Enforcement Agencies;
  • Logs all information into a web-based case management system;
  • Provides enforcement recommendations and refers cases to an Enforcement Response Officer (ERO), ERO field offices or ICE headquarters offices for follow-up review and action; and
  • Ability to utilize DHS and Legacy INS databases in the performance of assigned work.

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