Become an Enforcement Officer with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)

Are you looking for a career that combines law enforcement with environmental stewardship? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently seeking a motivated and physically capable individual to serve as an Enforcement Officer. This role is a unique opportunity to directly protect the living marine resources that are vital to our nation's economy and biodiversity.

Job Responsibilities

As an Enforcement Officer, you will be on the front lines of marine conservation. Your day-to-day duties will include:

Patrol and Inspection: Monitoring fishing vessels and marine establishments to ensure compliance with federal regulations.
Investigations: Conducting short-term investigations into alleged violations of NOAA statutes.
Evidence Collection: Gathering evidence, conducting seizures, and assisting in the apprehension of violators.
Court Testimony: Serving as a witness in criminal and civil proceedings regarding environmental violations.
Operational Reporting: Maintaining detailed case files and operational reports.

Requirements

This position requires someone with physical stamina, integrity, and a commitment to public service. Key requirements include:

U.S. Citizenship.
Ability to pass a background check for a Top Secret clearance.
Meeting federal medical and physical standards.
Ability to carry and safely use firearms.

Comparison of Qualification Levels

Level	Education/Experience Requirement
ZA-2 (GS-7/9)	1 year of specialized experience OR graduate education
ZA-3 (GS-11/12)	1 year of specialized experience OR Ph.D./3 years graduate study

Salary Overview

The salary for this position is competitive, ranging from $62,592 to $127,356 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level (ZA-2 vs ZA-3).

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
Generous paid time off.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of being selected:

Use the USAJobs Resume Builder to ensure your experience is formatted correctly.
Clearly define your specialized experience, specifically identifying how your past work relates to law enforcement or resource protection.
Submit all required documents, such as SF-50s and transcripts, in the requested format.

Serving as a NOAA Enforcement Officer is a mission-driven career that offers both challenges and significant rewards. If you are ready to make a tangible impact on the protection of our marine ecosystems, we encourage you to apply via the official USAJobs link provided.

Why This Enforcement Officer Job Matters

Protect our oceans and marine life as a frontline Enforcement Officer with the NOAA Office of Law Enforcement.

Enforcement Officer Job Overview

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is seeking dedicated Enforcement Officers to join our Office of Law Enforcement in Florida. This is a critical role that involves patrolling marine areas, conducting investigations, and ensuring compliance with federal statutes to preserve our nation's living marine resources. You will work in high-impact environments, providing vital protection for wildlife and marine ecosystems.

Requirements for Enforcement Officer

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Must be under the age of 37 at the time of appointment, unless eligible for a waiver (Veterans or prior Federal LEO service).
Must pass pre-employment medical, physical, and psychological examinations.
Must be willing to carry and maintain proficiency with firearms.
Must possess a valid driver's license and operate government vehicles.
Must be subject to random drug testing as a condition of employment.
Must submit a financial disclosure form (SF-450).

Preferred Qualifications for Enforcement Officer

Completion of the Uniformed Police Training Program (UPTP) or equivalent law enforcement certification.
Direct experience in natural resource compliance or environmental law enforcement.
Demonstrated ability to perform investigative report writing and evidence collection.
Strong communication skills for court testimony and inter-agency collaboration.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health and life insurance programs.
✓Participation in the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) retirement system.
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Opportunities for career advancement within the Department of Commerce.
✓Potential for Administratively Uncontrollable Overtime (AUO) pay.

💡 How to Apply Enforcement Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Enforcement Officer Job

Review the full vacancy announcement on the USAJobs portal.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages, clearly outlining your duties and time spent in each position.
Gather necessary documentation, including SF-50s (if current/former federal employees), DD-214 (if applicable), and transcripts.
Complete the online questionnaire through the application link.
Upload all required supporting documents before the closing date.
Submit your application and monitor your status through your USAJobs account.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJobs Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory information is captured.
Double-check that your resume explicitly shows your specialized experience related to the grade level you are applying for.
Ensure your provided email address is accurate and monitored frequently, as this is the primary communication channel.
Apply early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.
Carefully review the 'How to Apply' section to understand document formatting requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum entry age for this position?

The maximum entry age is 37 for candidates without prior federal law enforcement experience, though waivers may apply for Veterans Preference eligible applicants or those with prior federal LEO coverage.

Is a college degree required?

No, there is no positive education requirement. You may qualify through specialized experience alone or a combination of education and experience.

Are there physical requirements for this job?

Yes. The role requires moderate to arduous physical exertion, including working in inclement weather, maintaining specific vision and hearing standards, and passing annual physical evaluations.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Please refer to the specific vacancy announcement for details regarding relocation incentives; standard PCS expenses are generally not authorized for this position.

Do I need to be a current federal employee?

No, this position is open to various hiring paths. Check the 'Who May Apply' section on USAJobs to see if you qualify.

Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration

NOAA, an agency under the Department of Commerce, is a leader in science and environmental protection. From climate monitoring to fisheries management, NOAA serves the public by providing the data and enforcement necessary to keep our oceans healthy and our coastal economies thriving. The Office of Law Enforcement (OLE) is the branch responsible for ensuring compliance with federal laws protecting marine life.