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Military Police Watch Commander Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Attend staff meetings or, if excused, direct another supervisor from the watch to attend when ... military or veteran status or any other characteristics.

LEAD POLICE OFFICER

Bridgeport, CA · On-site +1

$55K - $80K/yr

... the Watch Commander in carrying out responsibilities of supervising the patrol shift, which ... Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days ...

The Police Sergeant is responsible for supervising, directing and evaluating personnel and resources in order to achieve law enforcement and department goals; to act as watch commander in the absence ...

The Police Sergeant is responsible for supervising, directing and evaluating personnel and resources in order to achieve law enforcement and department goals; to act as watch commander in the absence ...

The Police Sergeant is responsible for supervising, directing and evaluating personnel and resources in order to achieve law enforcement and department goals; to act as watch commander in the absence ...

Police Sergeant

Modesto, CA · On-site

$54.90 - $70.06/hr

Act as Watch Commander or other unit Commander, as assigned. Build and maintain positive working ... Police methods and procedures related to patrol, traffic control, and investigation and ...

Police Officer

River Grove, IL · On-site

$40K/yr

Under the direct supervision of the Patrol, Detective and Administrative Sergeants, Watch Commander, Deputy Chief, and Chief of Police. Qualifications Certification/Licensure:P.O.W.E.R. Certification ...

Police Sergeant Classification Title: Police Sergeant Posting Details Priority Application Date ... Assume the role of designated Watch Commander or Officer in Charge; Provide specialized training ...

Police Sergeant

Modesto, CA

$54.90 - $70.06/hr

Act as Watch Commander or other unit Commander, as assigned. Build and maintain positive working ... Police methods and procedures related to patrol, traffic control, and investigation and ...

POLICE OFFICER

Chicago, IL · On-site

$32.53/hr

No Duties and Responsibilities Reporting to the Watch Commander, duties of this position include ... Requires prior police experience in a recognized armed police department. * Requires good ...

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Military Police Watch Commander information

See salary details

$20.5K

$54.6K

$101K

How much do military police watch commander jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for military police watch commander in the United States is $54,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a watch commander a lieutenant?

A Military Police Watch Commander is typically a supervisory role responsible for overseeing patrols and operations during a shift. While some watch commanders may hold the rank of lieutenant, this is not always the case, as the position can be filled by personnel of different ranks depending on the organization’s structure and requirements.

What is the difference between Military Police Watch Commander vs Military Police Officer?

AspectMilitary Police Watch CommanderMilitary Police Officer
CredentialsTypically requires military police training, leadership skills, and experienceRequires military police training and certification
Work EnvironmentSupervises shifts, manages security operations, oversees personnelPatrols, responds to incidents, enforces laws on military bases
Employer & IndustryMilitary branches, defense facilitiesMilitary installations, law enforcement agencies

The Military Police Watch Commander oversees security teams and manages operations, while the Military Police Officer conducts patrols and enforces laws. Both roles require military police training, but the Watch Commander has additional leadership responsibilities.

What are Military Police Watch Commanders?

Military Police Watch Commanders are senior military police personnel responsible for overseeing law enforcement operations during their assigned shift or 'watch.' They supervise and coordinate the activities of military police officers, ensuring the safety and security of military installations and personnel. Watch Commanders respond to incidents, manage crime scenes, and serve as the primary point of contact for emergencies during their watch. Their duties also include reviewing incident reports, assigning tasks, and maintaining communication with higher command. This role is critical for maintaining order, discipline, and security within military environments.

What are some common challenges a Military Police Watch Commander faces during a typical shift?

Military Police Watch Commanders often encounter challenges such as quickly prioritizing incidents, managing limited resources, and maintaining clear communication across multiple teams. They must make rapid decisions under pressure while ensuring the safety of personnel and the security of military installations. Additionally, they oversee incident reports, coordinate with higher command, and mentor junior officers, requiring strong leadership and adaptability in a dynamic environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Military Police Watch Commander, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Military Police Watch Commander, you need a solid background in law enforcement, leadership, and security operations, typically supported by military police training and progressive supervisory experience. Familiarity with military law, incident reporting systems, and communication equipment is essential for managing daily operations. Excellent decision-making, conflict resolution, and team management skills help you lead personnel effectively under pressure. These competencies ensure unit readiness, the safety of personnel and property, and the successful execution of security protocols.
More about Military Police Watch Commander jobs
What job categories do people searching Military Police Watch Commander jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Military Police Watch Commander jobs are:
Infographic showing various Military Police Watch Commander job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,585 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
LEAD POLICE OFFICER with Security Clearance

LEAD POLICE OFFICER with Security Clearance

Department of Defense

Bridgeport, CA

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Duties * You will perform duties as a Lead Police Officer to Field Training Officers and police officers, and assists the Watch Commander in carrying out responsibilities of supervising the patrol shift, which provides 24-hour law enforcement services. * You will instruct Field Training Officers, trainees, and police officers in specific officer tasks and techniques, and provide written instructions, reference materials and supplies to assist in the instruction given. * You will provide technical advice and guidance to police officers on the enforcement of laws, rules, and regulations.

* You will inspect the overall physical security of the areas, evaluate situations and conditions, identify deficiencies, and recommend or take appropriate corrective actions. * You will distribute and balance the workload and rotations of Field Training Officers and police officers, assure work is finished by the end of the shift, and ensure police officers perform the work according to department guidelines. * You will assist in the planning and directing of watch activities for assigned areas.

Prepare absentee reports and watch schedules/lists for the following day. Requirements Conditions of employment * Must be a US Citizen. * Must be determined suitable for federal employment.

* Must participate in the direct deposit pay program. * New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov * Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326.

* Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service. * Work regularly includes assignment to a rotating shift, including weekends and holidays Incumbent is subject to a 24-hour recall and will maintain a 24-hour recall notification number and is required to respond per installation policy/SOP. * Call back and emergency overtime are regular requirements of this position.

May be subject to interrupted from meals or other work breaks while on duty * May be required to respond to off base circumstances as directed by the installation commander, in accordance with USMC and DoD policy * Incumbent must pass a sanctioned physical agility test and medical evaluation and pass periodic retests as required * Incumbent must satisfactorily pass the Police Applicant Suitability Review (PASR) investigation * Incumbent must pass all weapons qualifications tests prior to assigned duties and responsibilities and must pass all requalifications as required * Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license and be able to maintain a U.S. Government emergency vehicle operator's license * Incumbent must be able to read, write, and speak English * Incumbent is required to carry firearms or other weapons authorized for their jurisdictions and required to refamiliarize themselves with authorized weapons periodically and demonstrate skill/proficiency in their use. \ * This position is covered by the 1996 Lautenberg Amendment to the Gun Control Act of 1968.

Persons convicted of a misdemeanor or felony crime of domestic violence are not eligible for the position * Must be able to use all police equipment, certify in the use of radar detection and alcohol detection equipment, field sobriety tests, expandable or collapsible baton and obtain certifications required to accomplish the duties of LEO * Must be 18 years of age * This position does not meet the definition of law enforcement officer (LEO) and is excluded from coverage as LEO or purposes of the Federal Retirement System-Base Annuity IAW 5 CFR, Part 842, Subpart H * Must successfully complete a designated USMC Basic Police Officers Course (BPOC) and meet all certifications requirements, to include weapons certifications, CPR, AED, DoD and Joint Training Regulations Qualifications GS-09: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of Specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-08 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector that provided knowledge of a body of basic laws and regulations, law enforcement operations, practices and techniques and involved responsibility for maintaining order and protecting life and property. Specialized experience for this position is assisting in the planning and directing of watch activities, preparing absentee reports and watch schedules/lists; deploying police officers on motorized, bicycle, or walking patrols; directing police officers at fixed posts; controlling vehicle and personnel access to the installation; instructing field training officers; monitoring and maintaining criminal activity statistics; receiving reports, maintaining desk journals and ensuring accuracy of paperwork submitted. GS-08: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-07 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector that provided knowledge of a body of basic laws and regulations, law enforcement operations, practices and techniques and involved responsibility for maintaining order and protecting life and property.

Specialized experience for this position is assisting in controlling the desk area, deploying police officers on motorized, bicycle or walking patrols, directing police officers at fixed posts and controlling vehicle and personnel access in the installation. Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0000/police-series-0083/ Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (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.

Education This job does not have an education qualification requirement. Additional information This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program. Several vacancies may be filled.

A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments. Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: .

Veteran's preference does not apply when selecting individuals under this specific hiring authority. However, if you claim veteran's preference, you will be required to submit supporting documentation with your application as described in the Required Documents section below. This announcement uses the Certain Personnel of the DoD direct hire authority to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.

This position is subject to work an uncommon tour, including nights, weekends, and holidays to meet mission requirements. Overtime or night differential pay and/or unusual duty hours may be required. This position requires rotating shift work.

This position requires exposure to high noise levels. Certain incentives (such as Recruitment, Relocation or Student Loan Repayment) may be authorized to eligible selectees. 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. Vacancies filled from this announcement may be filled at any grade level listed. If selected below the full performance level, you may be noncompetitively promoted to the next higher grade level after meeting all regulatory requirements, and upon the recommendation of management.

Promotion is neither implied nor guaranteed. This position is Mission Essential. This position is subject to 24-hour recall.

This position is subject to extreme variations in weather conditions. You may be exposed to higher Force Protection Conditions. The work involves moderate and high risks and possible endangerment of life or serious injury that requires the exercise of safety precautions and use of protective clothing, gear, and devices such as coats, gloves, boots, goggles, masks, shields, etc.

You may be required to respond off base in circumstances as directed by the installation commander. You will be required to lift, push, and/or carry items weighing 50lbs or more. You may be required to push or drag heavy weights of up to 200lbs or more.

USMC regulations require a minimum annual physical agility test. You will undergo routine training in defensive tactics, handcuffing and firearms qualifications which require physical agility, dexterity and stamina. You will be required to work extended periods of physical exertion, derived from such activities as running, walking, standing, bending, or driving.

Must maintain program height and weight appearance standards. Required to wear a uniform and maintain appearance and grooming standards per Marine Corps Orders/policies. Must meet medical standards for police officers in DoD 6055.05M and NMCPHC-TM-OM 6260 If incumbent is conducting law enforcement operations in navigable waters, incumbent must attend the Inland Boat Operator Training Program course at FLETC or similar course.