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Law Enforcement Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Law Enforcement information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$34.7K

$86.7K

$133.3K

How much do law enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for law enforcement in Decatur, GA is $86,713.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,700.00 and $96,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by law enforcement officers during their daily duties?

Law enforcement officers regularly encounter a variety of challenges, including managing high-stress situations, responding to unpredictable emergencies, and balancing community engagement with enforcement duties. Officers often work irregular hours and must be prepared for both routine patrols and critical incidents. Effective communication and strong teamwork are essential, as they frequently collaborate with colleagues, emergency responders, and community members to resolve conflicts and ensure public safety.

What is the difference between Law Enforcement vs Security Guard?

AspectLaw EnforcementSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, police academy training, possibly state certificationHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentPublic settings, law enforcement agencies, patrol duties, investigationsPrivate properties, malls, events, static guarding roles
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, police departmentsPrivate security companies, businesses
Job ResponsibilitiesEnforce laws, investigate crimes, patrol, arrestMonitor premises, prevent theft, control access

Law enforcement officers and security guards both focus on safety, but law enforcement involves enforcing laws, investigating crimes, and working within government agencies. Security guards primarily protect private property and prevent unauthorized access. The roles differ in training, responsibilities, and work environments, though both are essential for security and public safety.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Law Enforcement?

The qualifications that you need to work in law enforcement include at least a high school diploma and specialized training. Government agencies such as the FBI require job applicants to have a bachelor’s degree. Police officers receive training in a police academy. They may get opportunities for advancement through on-the-job training or by obtaining an associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Investigative technicians such as crime scene investigators develop their skills in postsecondary certification programs. Working in public safety or criminology requires a bachelor’s degree.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Law Enforcement, and why are they important?

To thrive in Law Enforcement, a candidate needs a solid understanding of criminal law, investigative techniques, and physical fitness, usually supported by completion of police academy training and background checks. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, report writing systems, and communication devices is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, ethical judgment, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top professionals in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring public safety, effective problem-solving, and maintaining community trust.

What are law enforcement officers?

Law enforcement officers are professionals responsible for maintaining public order, enforcing laws, preventing crime, and protecting citizens and property. They include police officers, sheriffs, federal agents, and other officials who investigate crimes, respond to emergencies, and ensure community safety. Their duties can range from patrolling neighborhoods to conducting investigations and making arrests. Law enforcement officers play a vital role in upholding justice and the rule of law.
What are the most commonly searched types of Law Enforcement jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Law Enforcement jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What job categories do people searching Law Enforcement jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Law Enforcement jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Law Enforcement jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Law Enforcement job openings:
Infographic showing various Law Enforcement job openings in Decatur, GA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,713 per year, or $41.7 per hour.
Border Patrol Agent - Experienced Law Enforcement Professionals (Up to $60K Incentives)

Border Patrol Agent - Experienced Law Enforcement Professionals (Up to $60K Incentives)

United States Customs and Border Protection

Lilburn, GA • On-site

$63K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted yesterday


U.S. Customs and Border Protection rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 644 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Border Patrol Agent (BPA) - Experienced (GL-9 GS-11) NEW RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION INCENTIVES! Check out these higher-salaried federal law enforcement opportunities with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Your current or prior law enforcement experience may qualify you for this career opportunity with the nation's premier federal agency charged with securing our borders and protecting our country. You may qualify for these higher-graded Border Patrol Agent (BPA) employment opportunities if you have current or prior law enforcement experience. This experience could have been gained as part of a military police assignment or as a member of a state or local law enforcement organization.

Look at the duties and responsibilities section below to see if you are interested in these federal law enforcement opportunities and review the qualifications section below to see if you are qualified. DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE INCENTIVES – SEE SALARY SECTION BELOW IMPORTANT NOTICE: Duty assignments available at the time of offer may include the Southwest Border, including prioritized locations. U.S.

Border Patrol determines duty assignments at the time of offer based on operational needs, which may or may not align with candidates’ first-choice preferences. Relocation may be required. The U.S.

Border Patrol (USBP) offers those interested in a career in law enforcement an opportunity to work with an elite team of highly trained professionals whose camaraderie, pride, and purpose are hallmarks of their daily mission of protecting America. If you seek an exciting and rewarding job that provides excellent pay and exceptional federal benefits, now is the time to make your move. U.S.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is hiring immediately for these full-time, career Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) opportunities. Salary and Benefits: Salary for newly appointed law enforcement Border Patrol Agents varies from: Base Salary: GL-9/GS-11 $63,148 - $120,145 per year Locality Pay: Varies by duty location. Overtime Pay: Up to 25% Duty location impacts pay rates; locality pay for federal law enforcement is higher in some locations than others.

A fully trained BPA may be eligible for up to an additional 25% of base pay per the BPA Pay Reform Act of 2014. This is a career ladder position with a grade level progression from GL-9 to GS-11 to GS-12. You will be eligible for a promotion to the next higher grade level (without re-applying) once you successfully complete 52 weeks in the lower grade level.

All Border Patrol Agents may select from an array of federal employment benefits that include health and insurance plans, a generous annual and sick leave program, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement plan that is similar to traditional and ROTH 401(k) offerings. *Recruitment Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents (as defined in 5 CFR 575.102 ) will be offered up to a $20,000 incentive. The first $10,000 will be paid upon successful completion of the Border Patrol Academy, with the remaining $10,000 awarded for accepting a prioritized location.

Prioritized locations include Sierra Blanca, TX; Presidio, TX; Sanderson, TX; Comstock, TX; Lordsburg, NM; Freer, TX; Hebbronville, TX; Ajo, AZ. *Retention Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents may also qualify for up to $40,000 in additional incentives distributed over their first four years. Duties and Responsibilities: As a BPA, you will be part of our 60,000 workforce that strives to protect the American people by safeguarding our borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation’s economic prosperity.

Being a BPA makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession. Typical assignments include: Detecting and questioning people suspected of violating immigration and customs laws and inspecting documents and possessions to determine citizenship or violations. Preventing and apprehending aliens and smugglers of aliens at or near the borders by maintaining surveillance from covert positions to include using infrared scopes during night operations.

Interpreting and following tracks, marks, and other physical evidence of illegal entry of persons or contraband. Performing farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, city patrols, and transportation checks. Patrolling the international boundary and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets such as vehicles, horses, vessels, watercraft, off-road vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles for the accomplishment of the USBP Mission.

Qualifications: GL-9: You qualify for the GL-9 grade level if you possess one (1) year of specialized experience, equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as: Performing physical searches of detained individuals, their vehicles, and their immediate surroundings for weapons, contraband, currency, and other evidence. Apprehending, physically restraining, or working with law enforcement officials to identify or apprehend violators of state, federal, or immigration laws. Proficient in the use of firearms, preparing investigative reports, serving court orders (e.g., warrants, subpoenas, etc.), and gathering evidence for criminal cases prosecuted through the court system.

If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GS-11 grade level. GS-11: You qualify for the GS-11 grade level if you possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, with the authority granted by the state or government to enforce laws, make arrests, and investigate crimes, performing primary duties in an official law enforcement capacity such as: Utilizing intelligence information to track illegal operations, criminal activity, threats to our nation, and/or contraband while serving as a state, federal, or military law enforcement official. Leading investigations of fraud, contraband, criminal activity, threats to our nation, and/or illegal operations to determine sources and patterns while serving as a state, federal, or military law enforcement official.

Apprehending violators of state, federal, or immigration laws by utilizing various forms of complex technology that include surveillance, detection, situation awareness systems, and/or communications equipment. The above experience will be applied in connection with the following: Make arrests and exercise sound judgment in the use of firearms; deal effectively with people in a courteous manner in connection with law enforcement matters; analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions; or develop and maintain contact with a network of informants. There are no education substitutions for the GL-9 or GS-11 grade-level Border Patrol Agent opportunities.

Other Requirements: Citizenship : You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position. Residency : You must have had primary U.S.

residency (including protectorates as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five years. Age Restriction : In accordance with Public Law 100-238, this position is covered under law enforcement retirement provisions. Candidates must be referred for selection to the Border Patrol Agent position before reaching their 40th birthday in accordance with Department of Homeland Security Directive 251-03.

The age restriction may not apply if you are currently serving or have previously served in a federal civilian law enforcement (non-military) position covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d).

Veterans’ Preference : You may also be eligible for an excepted service Veterans’ Recruitment Appointment (VRA). The age restriction does not apply if you are Veterans' Preference eligible. Formal Training : After you are hired, you will be detailed to the U.S.

Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six (6) months of intensive instruction in immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement, and USBP-specific operations, driver training, physical techniques, firearms, and other courses. Border Patrol work requires the ability to speak and read Spanish, as well as English. Border Patrol Agents will be provided training to become proficient in the Spanish language at the Academy.

How to Apply: Click the Apply button on this site. You will be linked to the CBP Talent Network registration page. For Position of Interest, select Border Patrol Agent, and then complete the pre-screening questions.

You’ll then receive a link(s) to the BPA Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS, the federal government’s official employment site, to complete your application. Be certain to review ALL details of the job opportunity announcement and follow all instructions in the application process, including items (resume, transcripts, etc.) to submit. You will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam.

If you have questions about the application process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol page: careers.cbp.gov/s/usbp. NOTE: As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you’ll receive monthly emails with information about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with CBP.


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About U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

U.S. Customs and Border Protection serves and protects America with a workforce of more than 60,000 law enforcement and support professionals. We're united by our mission to guard our borders from threats and illicit activities while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003