Serving the Nation: Career Opportunities as an NGA Police Officer

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is not just a hub for mapping and geospatial intelligence; it is a critical defense organization that requires robust security at every level. The NGA is currently hiring motivated, disciplined, and dedicated individuals to serve as Police Officers. This is a unique opportunity to join the front line of protective services, ensuring the safety of personnel, critical assets, and national security data.

Job Responsibilities

NGA Police Officers are tasked with a wide range of responsibilities that go beyond traditional patrol duties. Key duties include:

Maintaining law and order across agency facilities.
Responding to criminal activity and emergency situations.
Conducting patrols and surveillance to detect potential threats.
Managing crime scenes and preserving evidence.
Protecting the civil rights and safety of all agency personnel.
Collaborating with other federal and local law enforcement partners.

Comparison of Qualifications

Requirement	Description
Education	2 years of college coursework or equivalent security experience.
Physicality	Must pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT) and annual medical exams.
Clearance	Must obtain/maintain Top Secret/SCI clearance and polygraph.
Training	Mandatory completion of FLETC and NGA-accepted police academy.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must demonstrate fitness for federal service. Mandatory criteria include U.S. citizenship, a valid driver’s license, and an impeccable background check record. Because this position involves sensitive information, you must successfully navigate a Top Secret security clearance process, including a Counterintelligence Polygraph and regular drug testing.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $57,736 to $101,097 per year. Compensation is commensurate with your unique experience and the pay band structure established by the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS).

Benefits

Beyond the salary, employees receive:

Full federal benefits package including health and life insurance.
Retirement investment options (Thrift Savings Plan).
Paid vacation and sick leave.
Opportunities for professional development and tactical skill training.
Possible recruitment incentives for qualified individuals who sign a service agreement.

Application Tips

Use the Builder: Always use the NGA online application tool.
Quality Over Quantity: Keep your resume to two pages and focus on your most relevant law enforcement or security achievements.
Be Thorough: Clearly explain your experience in applying laws, utilizing emergency equipment, and report writing.
Plan for Time: Given the security clearance requirements, ensure all your personal records (including mental health records for the last 7 years) are easily accessible.

Serving as a Police Officer for the NGA is a demanding but deeply rewarding career path for those called to service. If you possess the courage, integrity, and physical readiness required for this high-stakes environment, we encourage you to review the application portal and take the first step toward a career in intelligence support.

Why This Police Officer (Open Continuous) Job Matters

Protect the nation's most vital intelligence assets as a Police Officer with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.

Police Officer (Open Continuous) Job Overview

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is seeking dedicated, highly qualified professionals for the role of Police Officer in Springfield, Virginia. This permanent, full-time position is central to the Office of Protective Services, which operates on a 24/7 basis to safeguard NGA personnel, facilities, and critical information. Officers play a vital role in upholding federal law, responding to emergencies, and maintaining the security posture required for high-level intelligence work.

Requirements for Police Officer (Open Continuous)

U.S. Citizenship
Must be at least 21 years of age
Must hold and maintain a valid driver's license
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI access
Successful completion of a pre-employment polygraph and drug screening
Completion of at least 2 years of post-secondary education or equivalent law enforcement/security experience
Successful completion of a Physical Ability Test (PAT) and a rigorous medical examination
Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime

Preferred Qualifications for Police Officer (Open Continuous)

Experience interpreting and applying criminal codes and search/seizure principles
Background in processing crime scenes, handling evidence, or property management
Proficiency with police communication systems and emergency response equipment
Experience in criminal investigation or traffic accident reporting
Knowledge of force protection and surveillance techniques

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive Medical and Health Insurance
✓Federal Retirement Programs
✓Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
✓Recruitment incentives for qualified candidates
✓Ongoing specialized law enforcement and tactical training

💡 How to Apply Police Officer (Open Continuous) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Police Officer (Open Continuous) Job

Navigate to the NGA Careers Portal online.
Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare a resume limited to two pages using the NGA resume builder.
Submit your application electronically before the closing date.
Monitor your status through the NGA Careers Portal dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Use the NGA resume builder specifically; do not exceed the two-page limit.
Clearly highlight your experience in law enforcement, security, or military protection roles.
Ensure your examples demonstrate the results and complexity of your past work.
If claiming veterans' preference, ensure you self-identify as an eligible candidate.
Although a cover letter is optional, it is highly recommended to provide additional context for your candidacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Office of Protective Services a 24/7 operation?

Yes, as a Police Officer, you must be prepared to work weekends, holidays, nights, and overtime, and you are subject to 24-hour recall.

Are there specific grooming and appearance standards for NGA Police Officers?

Yes, there are strict standards regarding tattoos, body art, and facial hair to maintain a professional appearance. For example, tattoos on the head, face, or neck are prohibited.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Top Secret security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), which includes passing a counterintelligence polygraph.

Job from National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency

The NGA is a combat support agency and a member of the U.S. Intelligence Community. By providing timely, relevant, and accurate geospatial intelligence, the NGA enables decision-makers to act with confidence. The Office of Protective Services is the backbone of the agency’s security infrastructure, and its Police Officers are the primary guardians of the NGA’s mission environment.