Become a Chief of Police with the Department of Veterans Affairs
Are you looking to take your law enforcement career to the next level? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned leader to serve as the Chief of Police. This role is pivotal in maintaining the safety, security, and integrity of VA medical facilities across Arizona. If you have a passion for public service and possess the executive expertise required to lead in a high-stakes environment, this position offers a unique chance to make a lasting difference.
Job Responsibilities
As the Field Chief, your primary duties will include:
- Strategic Leadership: Directing law enforcement operations and security protocols across multiple facilities.
- Risk Management: Overseeing compliance reviews and vulnerability assessments.
- Operational Oversight: Managing incident responses, including criminal investigations and security breaches.
- Crisis Intervention: Coordinating with clinical partners to support Veterans in mental health crises.
Comparison: Role Responsibilities
| Focus Area | Key Responsibility | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Operations | Managing daily security | Ensure a safe facility |
| Compliance | Regulatory enforcement | Mitigate agency risk |
| Leadership | Mentoring personnel | Maintain high standards |
Requirements
To be considered for this high-impact position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Successful completion of an 8-10 week federal law enforcement training course.
- Ability to carry and qualify with agency-issued firearms.
- Must pass comprehensive medical and psychological screenings.
- Must have one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level.
Salary Overview
The salary range for this GS-13 position is competitive, currently set at $106,437 to $161,313 per year, depending on qualifications and location-specific adjustments.
Benefits
The VA offers a robust benefits package that includes:
- Participation in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
- Generous federal leave accrual.
- Retirement benefits and federal pension options.
- Career development opportunities within the nationwide VA network.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is concise and limited to two pages. Focus on highlighting your leadership results and alignment with the competencies listed in the job announcement. Always double-check that your SF-50 documentation clearly proves your time-in-grade eligibility.
Serving as a Chief of Police for the VA is more than a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have protected our freedom. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to lead with integrity, we encourage you to submit your application by August 13, 2026.
Why This Chief Of Police Job Matters
Lead as a Chief of Police with the Veterans Health Administration and make a direct impact on the safety and security of those who served our nation.
Chief Of Police Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled and strategic Chief of Police to oversee law enforcement operations, physical security, and crisis intervention across a multi-facility catchment area in Arizona. This executive-level position involves leading organizational units, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering a Veteran-centric security environment. If you are a dedicated law enforcement leader ready to shape the safety protocols of a vital healthcare network, this is your opportunity.
Requirements for Chief Of Police
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Must possess a valid, unrestricted State driver's license
- Must be able to carry agency-approved firearms and meet all legal requirements under the Gun Control Act of 1968
- Must pass a rigorous medical examination and physical fitness assessment
- Must undergo a comprehensive character background investigation
- Must complete an 8-10 week training course at the VA Law Enforcement Training Center
- Subject to pre-employment urinalysis for drug screening
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service
- Must maintain annual influenza vaccination compliance
Preferred Qualifications for Chief Of Police
- Proven experience in strategic leadership and operational oversight within law enforcement
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex employee relations and high-stakes security incidents
- Expertise in physical security surveys, vulnerability assessments, and regulatory compliance
- Experience in crisis intervention and multidisciplinary coordination
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal leave accrual based on total service years
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and insurance programs
- ✓Retirement planning opportunities
- ✓Career development and mentorship
- ✓Supportive work-life balance environment
💡 How to Apply Chief Of Police Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Chief Of Police Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as SF-50s, transcripts, or DD-214s
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of 08/13/2026
💡 General Tips
- Prioritize recent and relevant experience to keep your resume under the strict two-page limit.
- Use the PDF format for your resume to preserve formatting and document integrity.
- Clearly highlight your specialized experience at the GS-12 equivalent level in your resume.
- Verify that your SF-50 clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade eligibility.
- Submit your materials well in advance of the deadline to avoid system congestion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the educational requirement for this role?
There is no specific educational substitution for this GS-13 position; eligibility is based primarily on specialized professional experience.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, as the Chief of Police for this network, the position covers multiple sites, requiring travel to different facilities within the catchment area.
Are there medical requirements for this role?
Yes, candidates must pass a pre-employment physical and psychological examination to ensure they can perform the essential, strenuous duties of the role.
What is the training requirement?
Selected candidates must complete a 10-week course at the VA Law Enforcement Training Center in Arkansas.
Is there a drug test?
Yes, all selectees must undergo a mandatory urinalysis screening.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is committed to fulfilling the promise made by President Lincoln: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As a Chief of Police within the VISN 22 Desert Pacific Healthcare Network, you will be an integral part of this compassionate mission, ensuring that our Veterans receive care in a safe and secure environment.