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Federal Law Enforcement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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Federal Law Enforcement Program Manager

Herndon, VA · On-site

$119K - $119K/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 ...

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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 Jun 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.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

For federal law enforcement positions, applicants typically need to meet age requirements, which often include being between 21 and 37 years old, though specific agencies may vary. Being 27 is generally within the acceptable age range, and candidates often pursue relevant education, physical fitness, and background checks to qualify for the role.

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 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 skills in investigation, firearms, and law enforcement procedures.

What are common federal law enforcement roles?

Common federal law enforcement roles include Special Agents, Customs Officers, Border Patrol Agents, and Federal Marshals. These positions often require law enforcement training, background checks, and sometimes specialized skills or certifications, and they typically involve enforcing federal laws across various agencies and jurisdictions.

What are federal law enforcement jobs?

Federal law enforcement jobs involve enforcing laws, investigating crimes, and protecting public safety at the national level. These roles often require specialized training, security clearances, and adherence to strict protocols, with agencies such as the FBI, DEA, and Homeland Security employing officers and agents. Candidates typically need relevant education, physical fitness, and sometimes prior law enforcement experience.

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:
Law Enforcement Specialist (General Training Instructor)

Law Enforcement Specialist (General Training Instructor)

Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers

Artesia, NM • On-site, Remote

$74K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Summary
"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 a unique inter-agency organization preparing the next generation of law enforcement officers to meet our Nation's most pressing security challenges." Click here to learn more.
A recruitment/relocation incentive may be authorized. See additional info section.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
Serving as a Law Enforcement Specialist (General Training Instructor) GS-1801-11/12 makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) team and mission. This position is located in the Core Operations Training Directorate (CTO), Office of Artesia Operations (OAO).
The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a law enforcement instructor involved in planning and conducting classroom
instruction, laboratory, and/or field instruction sessions as part of the training program.
Typical duties include:
  • Serving as an instructor in the Driver and Firearms Training Division. In Firearms, instructor teach Basic Marksmanship Fundamentals, Tactical Threat Engagements, Live Fire Cover Course, Non-Conventional Shooting Positions, Interactive Cover Course and other various firearms topics. in the Driver's training arena, instructors will teach Law Enforcement Encounters, Basic Crash Investigations, and Law Enforcement Officer Driving Skills and other various driver training topics.
  • Conducting basic training classes for personnel and planning, coordinating, and executing field training and lab exercises.
  • Monitoring progress of students, documenting results, and/or recommending remedial and corrective action to include additional training and changes in training and/or operational procedures and instructions.
  • Conducting research on emerging technology, practices, and techniques to enhance instructional knowledge and skill.

View common definitions of terms found in this announcement: Common Definitions.
NOTE: First pull of applicants will be within 5 days of the open date. Further lists will be pulled in two-week increments.
Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this position.
  • Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • You must successfully pass a background investigation.
  • You will need to set up direct deposit so we can pay you.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid state issued driver's license to conduct official government business.
  • This is not a bargaining unit position.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain FLETC Law Enforcement Instructor certification within 12 months of employment.
  • You will be required to undergo pre-appointment and random drug testing for illegal drug use. Employment is contingent upon favorable results.
  • You must be able to meet job-related medical and/or fitness standards. You will be subject to an initial and annual physical examination that measures your visual, hearing, and physical acuity.
  • You will be subject to rotation to other programs and/or training sections in order to provide depth to the FLETC's instructor cadre.
  • Position is subject to the Lautenberg Amendment - persons convicted of misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence are prohibited from occupying this position.
  • This position is not eligible for telework.
  • Overtime may be required.
  • Weekends and federal holidays may be required.
  • This position is Emergency Essential and required to sustain FLETC's operations under all conditions.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain First Aid, Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
    certification within 12 months of employment

Qualifications
A resume must be no more than two pages. If an applicant's resume exceeds two pages, the USAJOBS database will not allow the application to be submitted. For additional assistance, please visit: USAJOBS Help Center - Update your resume now so it meets new resume requirements
This position has a Selective Placement Factor (SPF). If your resume does not demonstrate possession of the SPF, you will be rated ineligible.
SELECTIVE PLACEMENT FACTOR: In order to be considered for this position you must:
A. Possess experience as a sworn law enforcement officer or agent with full arrest authority in the prevention, detection, apprehension, detention and/or investigation of felony and/or misdemeanor violations of federal, state, local, tribal, or military criminal laws;
-OR-
B. Have held a federal civilian position in the 1801 occupational series.
-AND-
Specialized Experience: You qualify for the GS-12 grade level if you possess one year of specialized experience, equivalent to the GS-11 grade level or pay band in the federal service, or equivalent experience in the private or public sector performing the following duties:
  • Performing Law Enforcement duties that entailed Basic Marksmanship Fundamentals, Tactical Threat Engagements, Live Fire Cover Course, Non-Conventional Shooting Positions, Interactive Cover Course, and/or Law Enforcement Encounters, Basic Crash Investigations, and Law Enforcement Officer Driving Skills and other various driver training topics. OR
  • Instructing basic and advanced law enforcement training curriculum in: Basic Marksmanship Fundamentals, Tactical Threat Engagements, Live Fire Cover Course, Non-Conventional Shooting Positions, Interactive Cover Course and other various firearms topics. in the Driver's training arena, instructors will teach Law Enforcement Encounters, Basic Crash Investigations, and Law Enforcement Officer Driving Skills and other various driver training topics.

Substitution of education in lieu of specialized experience may not be used for this grade level.
Specialized Experience: You qualify at the GS-11 grade level if you possess one of the following:
  • One year of specialized experience, equivalent to the GS-09 grade level in Federal service performing Law Enforcement functions such as Enforcing Federal, State or Tribal Law, and performing duties that included Basic Marksmanship Fundamentals, Tactical Threat Engagements, Live Fire Cover Course, Non-Conventional Shooting Positions, Interactive Cover Course, Law Enforcement Encounters, Basic Crash Investigations, and Law Enforcement Officer Driving Skills; OR
  • One year of specialized experience, equivalent to the GS-09 grade level in Federal service instructing Basic Marksmanship Fundamentals, Tactical Threat Engagements, Live Fire Cover Course, Non-Conventional Shooting Positions, Interactive Cover Course, Law Enforcement Encounters, Basic Crash Investigations, and Law Enforcement Officer Driving Skills; OR
  • Completion of a Ph.D or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.M. in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work of the position; OR
  • A combination of successfully completed graduate level education and specialized experience as described above that, when combined, equal 100% of the total requirement. This will be calculated using your resume and unofficial transcripts or a list of courses/course hours submitted with your application.

NOTE: Only graduate education in excess of the first two years may be used to qualify for the GS-11 level. NOTE: Only graduate education in excess of the first two years may be used to qualify for the GS-11 level.
All qualifications and eligibility requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Current or Former Political Appointees: The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) eligibles: If you have never worked for the federal government, you are not ICTAP eligible. View information about ICTAP eligibilityon OPM's Career Transition Resources website. To be considered eligible under ICTAP, you must be rated at a minimum score of 85 for this position. In addition, you must submit the supporting documents listed under the required documents section of this job announcement.
Note: Secondary Administrative Law Enforcement Officer retirement coverage is being offered for this position.
Transfer Requirement for CSRS: To be eligible for secondary coverage, an employee must: - Transfer without a break in service exceeding 3 days directly from a primary position to a secondary position; AND - Be continuously employed in a secondary position since moving from a primary position; except a break in employment in secondary positions that begins with an involuntary separation (not for cause) and/or voluntary breaks in service that began prior to January 20, 1988.
Transfer Requirement for FERS: To be eligible for secondary coverage, an employee must: - Transfer without a break in service exceeding 3 days directly from a primary position to a secondary position; AND - Have completed 3 years of service in a primary position, including any such service during which no FERS deductions were withheld; AND - Be continuously employed in a secondary position since moving from a rigorous position; except a break in employment in secondary positions that begins with an involuntary separation (not for cause).
Pub. Law 114-285 grants the FLETC approval to hire retired federal employees with law enforcement/investigative experience to meet the expanding mission of the FLETC. Individuals may be selected for time-limited positions with eligibility for the dual-compensation waiver. The dual-compensation waiver allows retirees to return to work, earning their full salary with no offset to their FERS annuity. However, this waiver does not exempt the FERS annuity supplement from being reduced. Therefore, FERS retirees receiving a FERS annuity supplement, must be aware that like social security benefits, the FERS annuity supplement is subject to an earnings test and may be reduced if the salary earned is more than the social security exempt amount of earnings. Additional information is available on OPM's website or by contacting OPM.
If selected, federal retirees will be eligible for a waiver of the dual compensation reduction. Click here for more information. FLETC Reemployed Annuitants | Federal Law Enforcement Training Center
The Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act prohibits the Department of Homeland Security and its Components from requesting an applicant's criminal history record before that individual receives a conditional offer of employment. In accordance with 5 U.S. Code § 9202(c) and 5 C.F.R § 920.201 certain positions are exempt from the provisions of the Fair Chance to Compete Act. Applicants who believe they have been subjected to a violation of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act, may submit a written complaint to fletc-jobinfo@fletc.dhs.gov
Education
Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications; applicant's resumes and supporting documentation should only reflect education received from schools accredited by such institutions. Applicants can verify accreditation at the following Website: https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency (a U.S. private organization's interpretation that such education has been deemed at least equivalent to conventional U.S. education programs) with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For more information regarding evaluation of foreign education for federal employment, please visit the U.S. Department of Education webpage on the Recognition of Foreign Qualifications.
Additional information
Reasonable Accommodation (RA) Requests: If you believe you have a disability (i.e., physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended that would interfere with completing the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, you will be granted the opportunity to request a RA in your online application. Requests for RA for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments and appropriate supporting documentation for RA must be received prior to starting the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Decisions on requests for RA are made on a case-by-case basis. If you meet the minimum qualifications of the position, after notification of the adjudication of your request, you will receive an email invitation to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, based on your adjudication decision. You must complete all assessments within 48 hours of receiving the URL to access the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, if you received the link after the close of the announcement. To determine if you need a RA, please review the Procedures for Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for Online Assessments here:https://help.usastaffing.gov/Apply/index.php?title=Reasonable_Accommodations_for_USA_Hire
A relocation incentive is generally a single payment intended to offset some of the relocation costs experienced by the selectee. A relocation incentive may be authorized.
A recruit...