Safeguard National Defense: Become a Security Guard at Letterkenny Army Depot

Are you seeking a high-purpose career where your daily vigilance protects those who protect our nation? The Department of the Army is actively recruiting dedicated individuals to step into the role of Security Guard (GS-06) at the Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Operating under the Directorate of Emergency Services, this vital position ensures that critical defense infrastructure, advanced military hardware, and dedicated civilian and military personnel remain safe from threats.

This position is being filled using Direct Hire Authority (DHA), which bypasses traditional federal hiring delays, allowing qualified candidates to be placed quickly. If you have experience in physical security, radio communications, and access control, this is your opportunity to build a meaningful career in federal service.

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About the Agency: Army Materiel Command & Letterkenny Army Depot

This position is with the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, operating under the Army Materiel Command (AMC). AMC is the powerhouse of Army logistics and sustainment. With over 165,000 military, civilian, and contractor personnel, AMC manages the global military supply chain and ensures readiness across all 50 states and in more than 150 countries.

Since its establishment in 1962, AMC has provided unmatched support to the Warfighter during conflicts, operations, and humanitarian disaster relief efforts.

Located in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, the Letterkenny Army Depot (LEAD) is a premier installation known as the premier depot for air defense missile systems. The Directorate of Emergency Services at LEAD is tasked with safeguarding this sprawling, secure industrial complex. Joining this team means putting people first and becoming part of a highly disciplined culture that keeps our fighting forces equipped and secure.

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Job Responsibilities

As a GS-06 Security Guard, you will perform a dynamic range of physical security and emergency services duties. You will be responsible for protecting federal personnel, proprietary materials, and physical installations.

Your core daily duties will include:

• Access Control and Credential Verification: Closely reviewing badges, identification cards, and visitor passes to verify authorization before granting access to highly restricted military zones.
• Radio and Dispatch Operations: Maintaining constant radio communication with mobile patrol units, guard posts, and emergency services to coordinate rapid responses.
• Patrol Duties: Actively patrolling the depot’s perimeter and interior areas on foot and by vehicle to detect anomalies, security breaches, or safety hazards.
• Traffic Management: Enforcing base speed limits, directing traffic, and managing accident scenes or medical emergency locations.
• Daily Log Maintenance: Preparing, organizing, and maintaining detailed daily journals, security incident reports, and radio transmission logs.
• Emergency Guard Actions: Serving on rotating patrols and stationary posts to enforce security measures and quickly contain potential threats.

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Strict Requirements and Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for this position, you must meet the following eligibility and qualification requirements.

General Requirements:

• Citizenship: You must be a citizen of the United States.
• Security Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Drug Testing: You must pass a pre-employment drug screening and remain drug-free during your employment.
• Selective Service: Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must provide proof of Selective Service Registration.
• Trial Period: A one-year federal trial period may be required.

Specialized Experience Requirements:

You must possess at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level in the federal service. Your resume must clearly demonstrate that your past work experience includes:

1. Operating a variety of radio transmitters, receivers, or base station equipment.
2. Reviewing and validating credentials, passes, and identification badges to secure facility perimeters.
3. Protecting the general public, military staff, or high-risk property from hazards or threats.
4. Preparing accurate, daily security journals, incident logs, and records.

Note: Education cannot be substituted for experience for this position. You must qualify based on your practical work experience alone.

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Salary & Compensation Overview

The salary for this GS-06 position ranges from $51,957 to $67,543 per year. This includes applicable locality pay and local market supplements for the Chambersburg, Pennsylvania area.

Key Appointment Details:

• Appointment Type: This is a TERM position not to exceed 13 months.
• Potential for Extension: The term may be extended up to a maximum of 6 years.
• Permanent Conversion: This position is structured so that it will NOT convert to a permanent federal position.
• Relocation Expenses: Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized.

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Comprehensive Federal Benefits

Even though this is a Term appointment, federal employees enjoy a robust and supportive workspace. Working at Letterkenny Army Depot provides outstanding professional and wellness support, including:

• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health insurance plans, dental, and vision coverage options.
• Paid Leave: Earned annual vacation days, sick leave, and paid federal holidays.
• Professional Training: Extensive on-the-job training focused on tactical response, federal law enforcement protocols, and modern physical security technology.
• Modern Facilities: Work within a highly professional, well-maintained installation with access to base support services.

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Role Comparison: Federal vs. Private Security

Understanding the difference between a federal GS-06 security officer role and traditional commercial security is key to mapping out your career. Here is how they compare:

Feature	GS-06 Federal Security Guard (Letterkenny)	Traditional Commercial Security Officer
Salary Structure	$51,957 - $67,543 (Stable annual salary)	Hourly rates, widely variable by region
Required Clearance	Secret Security Clearance	Basic background check only
Scope of Authority	Enforcement of federal regulations on military base	Enforcement of private property rules
Technical Tools	Military grade radio dispatch & encrypted networks	Standard analog radios or cell phones
Training Provided	Structured federal defensive tactics and security protocols	State-minimum security guard card training

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Tips for a Winning Federal Application

Applying for a federal position is highly competitive. To maximize your chances, adhere strictly to these application guidelines:

1. Master the Two-Page Resume Rule

Your resume must be two pages or less. This is a strict administrative limit for this specific announcement. Any application featuring a resume that is three pages or longer will be automatically removed from consideration without review.

2. State Your Hours Worked Clearly

For every past job listed on your resume, you must include the employer's name, job title, start and end dates (including month and year), and the number of hours worked per week. If you do not specify your weekly hours, the HR department cannot accurately calculate your specialized experience, which may result in an "ineligible" rating.

3. Translate Your Security Experience

Do not assume the hiring authority knows what your past job titles mean. Use plain language to describe your security duties. Avoid military jargon or internal acronyms. Detail how you checked IDs, operated multi-line radios, managed traffic, and kept daily journals.

4. Monitor Your Document Status

Upload your document package early. USA Staffing virus scans can take up to an hour to process files. Ensure your application status on your USAJOBS dashboard changes to "Received" before the final deadline of September 10, 2026.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I substitute my college degree to qualify for this security guard position?

A: No. For this GS-06 position, qualifications are determined entirely by your specialized experience. No educational substitution is permitted.

Q: Is this a permanent job with the Department of the Army?

A: No, this is a Term appointment. It has a duration of 13 months, though it can be extended up to 6 years. It does not lead to a permanent conversion.

Q: What documents must I submit to prove my eligibility?

A: You must submit a comprehensive federal resume (under 2 pages) and complete the online questionnaire. If applicable, you should also upload your most recent performance appraisal or eligibility documentation (such as military records or spouse preferences).

Q: Will the government pay for my moving costs to Chambersburg, PA?

A: No, relocation costs (Permanent Change of Station) are not authorized for this security position.

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Serving as a Security Guard at the Letterkenny Army Depot is more than just a job; it is an honorable calling to protect the personnel and assets that secure our nation. With competitive federal pay, valuable experience, and a fast-tracked Direct Hire process, this is an exceptional opportunity to advance your security career. Ensure your resume is polished, under the two-page limit, and submit your application today to join the elite team protecting Letterkenny Army Depot!