Secure Our Nation: Become a Police Officer at Watervliet Arsenal
Are you seeking a career that combines public service with the high-stakes environment of national defense? The Watervliet Arsenal, a pillar of American military history, is currently seeking professional, vigilant, and dedicated Police Officers. This is a unique opportunity to serve at the oldest continuously active arsenal in the United States, contributing to the safety and security of advanced weaponry manufacturing facilities.
Job Responsibilities
As a federal Police Officer, your duties will be diverse and mission-focused. You will be on the front lines of site security, protecting both personnel and property. Key responsibilities include:
- Emergency Response: Acting as a first responder to emergency calls and medical situations.
- Investigations: Collecting evidence, analyzing facts, and conducting preliminary investigations.
- Patrol Duties: Monitoring traffic using radar and Lidar and enforcing installation security regulations.
- Access Control: Deterring unauthorized entry and managing incident perimeters.
- Database Management: Operating the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) terminal.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific criteria regarding experience and professional certification.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Specialized Experience | One year performing law enforcement duties at the GS-05 (for GS-06) or GS-06 (for GS-07) level |
| Certification | Must possess US Army Civilian Police Academy and Field Officer Training Program completion (for GS-07) |
| Security | Ability to obtain/maintain a Secret security clearance |
| Testing | Pre-employment drug testing is mandatory |
Salary Overview
The salary for this position ranges from $46,848 to $67,678 per year. This scale includes applicable locality pay, reflecting the cost of living and regional economic factors for the Watervliet area.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical insurance coverage options.
- Financial Planning: Retirement pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Time Off: Generous leave policies including vacation, sick time, and paid federal holidays.
Application Tips
The federal hiring process is rigorous. Ensure your success by adhering to the two-page resume limit and explicitly detailing your specialized experience. Use clear, plain language, and ensure that all certifications are attached to your application package to avoid being marked as ineligible.
Serving as a Police Officer at Watervliet Arsenal is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of the Department of the Army. If you possess the experience and dedication required to protect this historic installation, apply today to start your federal law enforcement career.
Why This Police Officer Job Matters
Join the historic Watervliet Arsenal as a federal Police Officer and play a crucial role in safeguarding one of America's most vital defense manufacturing centers.
Police Officer Job Overview
The Department of the Army is seeking dedicated Police Officers to join the Emergency Services Division at the historic Watervliet Arsenal in New York. As a federal law enforcement professional, you will be responsible for maintaining safety, security, and order at a facility that has supported military operations since 1813. This role is designated as Mission Essential, requiring a high level of commitment during emergency scenarios to protect both personnel and critical national defense infrastructure.
Requirements for Police Officer
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Must meet the specialized experience requirements for the GS-06 or GS-07 grade levels.
- For GS-07, candidates must possess the US Army Civilian Police Academy and Field Officer Training Program certifications.
- Must submit all required licenses and certifications at the time of application.
- Submit a resume of no more than two pages detailing relevant experience.
Preferred Qualifications for Police Officer
- Prior experience in federal or state law enforcement patrol duties.
- Proficiency in operating law enforcement specialized equipment such as radar and breathalyzers.
- Experience with National Crime Information Center (NCIC) procedures.
- Demonstrated ability to perform emergency medical first aid.
- Strong report writing and investigative skills.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits, including pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Access to Employee Assistance Programs and career development.
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Police Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Police Officer Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Gather supporting documentation, including certifications, performance appraisals, and licenses.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USA Staffing platform.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 4, 2026.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and strictly under two pages, as longer documents will be rejected.
- Clearly outline your hours worked per week for each job entry to help HR verify your specialized experience.
- Avoid using unexplained acronyms; write for a general audience.
- Ensure your certifications are uploaded; missing credentials will lead to an immediate ineligible rating.
- Double-check that your application is fully submitted, not just saved, by the 11:59 PM deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for experience?
No, this position requires specific specialized experience and does not allow for education substitution.
What happens if there is an emergency?
This is a Mission Essential role. You are expected to report to work regardless of weather or disaster conditions to ensure the safety of the installation.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance and is classified as a noncritical-sensitive position.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, the government has determined that PCS costs are not in the government interest for this specific announcement.
How long is the probationary period?
This position requires a one-year probationary period to evaluate your fitness for duty and performance.
Job from Army Tank-Automotive And Armament Command (Tacom)
The Watervliet Arsenal, under the Department of the Army, serves as a vital manufacturing center for modern military systems. Located in New York, the site is home to Benét Labs and remains a global leader in the production of high-powered weaponry. Civilian employees here are an integral part of the 'Total Army,' providing the technical and operational expertise necessary to keep the installation secure and productive.