Become a Police Officer (Field Training Officer) with the U.S. Marine Corps

Are you a seasoned law enforcement professional looking to make a meaningful transition into federal service? The U.S. Marine Corps is currently accepting applications for the position of Police Officer (Field Training Officer) located in Barstow, California. This role offers more than just a paycheck; it provides an opportunity to shape the future of military installation safety.

Job Responsibilities

As a Field Training Officer, your duties extend beyond standard patrol and security. You are the mentor, the expert, and the evaluator. Key responsibilities include:

Mentorship: Instructing new officers on standard tasks, techniques, and the nuances of installation security.
Field Monitoring: Providing direct guidance during live operations, identifying performance issues, and recommending professional improvements.
Investigation: Utilizing investigative techniques to resolve crimes, interview witnesses, and apprehend suspects.
Daily Operations: Performing traffic enforcement, responding to emergency calls, and manning entry/exit gates to ensure site security.

Qualifications and Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards.

Level	Specialized Experience Requirement
GS-07	One year of experience equivalent to GS-06
GS-08	One year of experience equivalent to GS-07

Additional requirements include being able to carry a firearm, meeting strict physical appearance standards, and successfully completing the USMC Police Officers Course. Candidates must be prepared to handle chemical/biological threats using specialized gear.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $58,244 to $83,859 per year. Beyond base pay, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including robust health insurance, participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and generous leave policies.

Application Tips

Because this is a competitive public notice, precision is key.

Keep it concise: Your resume must be strictly 2 pages or less.
Be specific: Detail your past experience with law enforcement equipment and investigative protocols.
Verify: Double-check that your application package is complete. Incomplete submissions will be rated ineligible.

Serving as a Field Training Officer for the U.S. Marine Corps in Barstow is a pivotal career move for those dedicated to public safety. If you have the experience and the drive to mentor the next generation, we encourage you to review your qualifications against the requirements and submit your application today.

Why This Police Officer (Field Training Officer) Job Matters

Take the lead in public safety and mentor the next generation of protectors as a Police Officer and Field Training Officer with the U.S. Marine Corps.

Police Officer (Field Training Officer) Job Overview

The U.S. Marine Corps is seeking dedicated law enforcement professionals for Field Training Officer (FTO) positions in Barstow, California. This role is a unique opportunity to combine operational police duties with high-level mentorship. You will serve as a vital guide for new officers, ensuring they maintain the high standards of conduct and procedural excellence required to safeguard our military installations. This position is essential to maintaining order, protecting personnel, and fostering the development of skilled law enforcement talent within the Department of the Navy.

Requirements for Police Officer (Field Training Officer)

One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level (or equivalent) for GS-08 consideration.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level (or equivalent) for GS-07 consideration.
Ability to carry a firearm and maintain apprehension/detention authority.
Must successfully complete the designated USMC Police Officers Course of Instruction.
Must meet all certification requirements, including weapons, CPR, and AED training.
Must adhere to program height and weight appearance standards.
Requirement to sign DD-Form-2760 regarding the Lautenberg Amendment.
Must be able to train and wear specialized personal protective equipment (mask, suit, boots, gloves) for emergency scenarios.

Preferred Qualifications for Police Officer (Field Training Officer)

Proven experience instructing law enforcement techniques and law enforcement equipment usage.
Extensive background in conducting preliminary investigations and gathering facts.
Demonstrated ability to monitor and evaluate trainee performance with constructive feedback.
Strong knowledge of federal laws, regulations, and operational procedures.
Experience in traffic law enforcement and responding to emergency calls.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Federal retirement savings plans (TSP)
✓Paid vacation and sick leave
✓Professional development and continuous training opportunities
✓Potential for non-competitive promotion
✓Incentives for relocation (as authorized)

💡 How to Apply Police Officer (Field Training Officer) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Police Officer (Field Training Officer) Job

Ensure your resume is no more than 2 pages long and clearly documents all required experience.
Include essential details such as employer names, dates of employment, and pay plans/series/grades.
Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts if using education as a qualification substitute.
If claiming veteran's preference, include all required DD-214 or SF-15 documents.
Email your completed application package to the designated recruitment office address.
Verify that all submitted documents are legible and accurate before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements for job entries are met.
Be specific and clear; the HR team evaluates your eligibility based solely on your resume content.
Sanitize sensitive personal information like Social Security Numbers or dates of birth from your documents prior to submission.
Double-check your email transmission to ensure the full package is received by the deadline.
Familiarize yourself with the Lautenberg Amendment and ensure you meet those legal qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Field Training Officer in this position?

The FTO serves as a mentor, monitoring the progress of new police officers, providing technical guidance, and ensuring they follow standard operating procedures and law enforcement protocols.

Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement?

No, there is no substitution of education or training for the required specialized experience at the GS-06 level or above.

Is this a remote or telework-eligible position?

No, this is a hands-on law enforcement role that requires your physical presence at the installation in Barstow, California.

Job from U.S. Marine Corps

The Department of the Navy, specifically within the U.S. Marine Corps, provides a high-stakes, rewarding environment for civilian professionals. By bridging the gap between civilian expertise and military mission requirements, the Corps fosters a culture of patriotism and professional growth. Whether you are a veteran or a career law enforcement officer, the USMC provides a stable, mission-driven career path.