Become a Key Architect of Federal Law Enforcement Policy
Are you an expert in law enforcement policy and organizational strategy? The Office of Law Enforcement and Security (OLES) at the Department of the Interior (DOI) is looking for a seasoned Policy Analyst to join its team in Washington, D.C. This GS-14 role offers a unique opportunity to shape the standards, procedures, and oversight frameworks for federal law enforcement programs across the country.
About the Agency: Office of Law Enforcement and Security
The Department of the Interior is responsible for the stewardship of our nation's natural resources and cultural heritage. The OLES branch serves as the central authority for all Departmental and Bureau law enforcement programs. This includes security, intelligence, counterintelligence, and law enforcement technology. By joining this office, you play a critical role in supporting the professionals who protect our public lands and the citizens who visit them.
Job Responsibilities
As a Policy Analyst, you will serve as a principal advisor to the Assistant Director. Your work directly impacts over 2,000 DOI law enforcement personnel. Core duties include:
- Policy Development: Drafting and revising the DOI Law Enforcement Policy Manual and related directives.
- Compliance Monitoring: Ensuring alignment with Executive Orders, DOJ guidance, and FLETA standards.
- Strategic Advisory: Providing senior leadership with evidence-based policy options regarding operational risks and oversight findings.
- Interagency Coordination: Partnering with the FBI, DHS, and tribal governments to ensure cohesive national security and policing strategies.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level position, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Experience: You need at least one full year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Verification: You must pass background and suitability investigations.
- Documentation: A strictly formatted 2-page resume is required.
Eligibility Comparison
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Mandatory |
| Time-in-Grade | Required (GS-13) |
| Education Substitution | Not Permitted |
| Resume Length | Max 2 Pages |
| Security Clearance | High Risk (HR) |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 per year. Beyond the base compensation, federal employees benefit from comprehensive health insurance, a robust retirement plan (FERS/TSP), and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
Applying for a GS-14 federal position requires precision. Ensure your resume highlights your leadership in policy development rather than just administrative tasks. Double-check that your work history includes the total hours worked per week for every entry, as the agency uses this data to validate your specialized experience.
This position at the Department of the Interior is more than just a job; it is a chance to define the future of federal law enforcement. If you possess the experience and the drive to influence national policy, we encourage you to prepare your application materials and apply today.
Why This Policy Analyst Job Matters
Shape the future of law enforcement operations at the Department of the Interior. Join the Office of Law Enforcement and Security (OLES) as a Policy Analyst and influence national standards.
Policy Analyst Job Overview
The Office of Law Enforcement and Security (OLES) is seeking a high-level Policy Analyst to serve as a principal advisor to the Assistant Director. In this critical role, you will lead the development and integration of department-wide law enforcement policies, ensuring compliance with federal mandates, executive orders, and best practices. You will manage complex initiatives, conduct high-level policy analysis, and provide strategic guidance to senior leadership regarding oversight findings and operational risks affecting over 2,000 personnel.
Requirements for Policy Analyst
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability/fitness adjudication.
- Registration with Selective Service is required for males born after 12/31/59.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period may be required.
- Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements (GS-13 equivalent for at least one year).
- Must submit a 2-page resume specifically formatted for this position.
Preferred Qualifications for Policy Analyst
- Expertise in Federal law enforcement policy research and development.
- Demonstrated success in department-wide policy integration and stakeholder coordination.
- Strong analytical skills regarding statutes, constitutional requirements, and judicial decisions.
- Experience in identifying operational risks and developing mitigation strategies.
- Proven ability to brief senior executives and political leadership on sensitive matters.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βFederal health insurance plans
- βLife insurance coverage
- βRetirement programs (FERS/TSP)
- βPaid federal holidays and leave
- βTelework opportunities
- βPotential for recruitment or relocation incentives
π‘ How to Apply Policy Analyst Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Policy Analyst Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement in detail.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages, including hours worked per week.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit required documents, including recent performance appraisals and SF-50s.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessment when prompted.
- Submit the final application package before the closing date.
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly follows the 2-page limit; excess pages will not be reviewed.
- Explicitly state your hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire assessment.
- Use the 'Resume Builder' tool on USAJOBS to ensure your document meets agency requirements.
- Verify all your supporting documents (SF-50s, performance appraisals) are current and signed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, this specific position does not allow for the substitution of education for the required specialized experience.
What happens if I submit more than 2 pages for my resume?
The agency will not accept resumes exceeding the 2-page limit. Only the first 2 pages will be considered.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to supervisor approval and the nature of operational requirements.
What is the USA Hire assessment?
It is a competency-based assessment required for this role. You will receive an access link via email after submitting your initial application.
Can I update my application after submission?
Yes, you can edit your application until the announcement closing date of November 3, 2026.
External Resources
- β USAJobs Application Portal
- β E-Verify Information
- β USA Hire Assessment Login
- β Application Questionnaire Preview
- β USA Hire Applicant Resource Center
- β Department of the Interior Careers
- β Resume Builder Help
- β Veterans Records
- β Federal Employee Benefits Guide
- β EXPLORE Act Veteran Pilot
- β Reasonable Accommodation Information
