Become a Special Agent: Join the U.S. Secret Service Counter Assault Team

The United States Secret Service (USSS) represents the pinnacle of federal law enforcement and protective duty. For those seeking a career defined by action, integrity, and national significance, the position of Special Agent within the Counter Assault Team (CAT) offers a unique path. This role is designed for professionals who possess not only the intellectual capability to conduct complex investigations but also the tactical prowess required to shield the nation's highest leadership.

Job Responsibilities

As a CAT Special Agent, you will be on the front lines of the Secret Service’s protective operations. Responsibilities include:

Protective Operations: Providing specialized tactical support to protective details.
Mission Planning: Executing complex security designs for National Special Security Events (NSSEs).
Criminal Investigations: Conducting investigations into counterfeiting, cyber fraud, and financial crimes.
Tactical Readiness: Maintaining peak physical and mental conditioning and elite-level weapons proficiency.

Requirements

This role is highly selective. Candidates must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship & Age: U.S. citizen, 21-40 years old.
Clearance: Ability to hold a Top-Secret security clearance.
Fitness: Pass the Applicant Physical Abilities Test (APAT).
Training: Complete intensive FLETC and James J. Rowley Training Center programs.

Salary and Comparison

Compensation is highly competitive and includes 25% Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP).

Pay Grade	Minimum Salary	Maximum Potential
GL-07	$65,435	N/A
GL-09	$72,977	N/A
GS-11	$85,447	N/A
Career	Up to $65,435	$158,322

Benefits

Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
Federal Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Paid holidays and flexible personal leave.
Recruitment incentives up to $75,000.
Professional development and tuition reimbursement.

Application Tips

Submit your application via USAJOBS, ensuring your resume is exactly two pages. Emphasize your tactical and investigative background, and be prepared for a rigorous multi-phase evaluation process including a polygraph and medical exam.

Serving on the Counter Assault Team is more than a job—it is a commitment to the safety of our country. If you meet the criteria and possess the drive to join this elite unit, apply today.

Why This Special Agent - Counter Assault Team Job Matters

Join the elite ranks of the U.S. Secret Service as a Counter Assault Team (CAT) Special Agent—where your tactical expertise meets the critical mission of national security.

Special Agent - Counter Assault Team Job Overview

The U.S. Secret Service is seeking highly skilled individuals for the Counter Assault Team (CAT). This specialized role within the Office of Protective Operations combines rigorous tactical training with high-stakes protection responsibilities for the President, Vice President, and other dignitaries. Beyond protective duties, agents engage in complex criminal investigations, including cyber fraud and financial crimes, ensuring the integrity of the nation's financial systems. This 3-year, time-limited appointment offers a pathway to a permanent career and includes elite tactical training in an environment where precision and courage are the daily standard.

Requirements for Special Agent - Counter Assault Team

U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
Must be at least 21 years old and under 40 at the time of referral.
Must hold a valid, REAL ID-compliant driver's license.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance.
Must pass a rigorous 13-week training at FLETC and an 18-week specialized CAT training.
Must complete the Applicant Physical Abilities Test (APAT).
Must pass a drug screening, polygraph, medical exam, and background investigation.
Must be willing to sign a mobility agreement for domestic and international assignments.
Vision must be correctable to 20/20; hearing must meet specific medical standards.
Register with the Selective Service System if applicable.

Preferred Qualifications for Special Agent - Counter Assault Team

Prior combat arms experience in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Experience as a tactical team member in a Department of Defense special operations unit.
Direct military combat experience.
Previous service on a federal, state, or local law enforcement tactical team.
Background as a collegiate or professional athlete.
Advanced education (Master’s, Ph.D., or LL.M.) in a relevant field.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive base pay plus 25% Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP).
✓Recruitment incentive of up to $75,000 for qualified candidates.
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government contributions.
✓Federal retirement plan and long-term care insurance.
✓Generous personal leave and paid federal holidays.
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development training.
✓Access to fitness centers and wellness programs.

💡 How to Apply Special Agent - Counter Assault Team Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Special Agent - Counter Assault Team Job

Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages.
Register and apply through the official USAJOBS portal.
Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documentation, including transcripts and DD-214.
Pass the Phase 1 assessments: SAEE Exam, APAT, and interview.
Undergo Phase 2: Credit check, polygraph, medical exam, and full background investigation.
Sign the Conditional Job Offer and participate in the required training programs.

💡 General Tips

Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; excess pages will result in immediate disqualification.
Ensure your resume reflects hours worked per week and uses a clear MM/YYYY format for all employment history.
Highlight tactical, investigative, and leadership experience clearly.
Review the physical requirements for the APAT early and begin conditioning immediately.
Double-check all uploaded documents for legibility and accuracy before submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recruitment incentive?

Eligible candidates may receive up to $75,000, paid in four installments over four years, contingent upon successful completion of training and continued service.

What happens if I fail the CAT training?

If you do not pass the tactical training, you may have the opportunity to remain with the Secret Service in a non-tactical Special Agent role.

Is there a tattoo policy?

*A: Yes, visible body markings on the face, head, neck, hands, or fingers are generally prohibited.*

What is the commitment?

*A: The initial appointment is for 3 years and 120 days, with a 4-year service agreement for those receiving recruitment incentives.*

Job from U.S. Secret Service

The U.S. Secret Service, a component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), operates under a dual mission: protecting national leaders and safeguarding the American financial infrastructure. Our agents are committed to duty, loyalty, and justice, working in every environment imaginable to ensure the security of the President, Vice President, and visiting dignitaries.