Become a Police Officer with FEMA: A Career in National Security
Are you looking to transition your law enforcement career to the federal level? The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is hiring a Police Officer for the Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center (MWEOC). This is more than a standard patrol position; it is a critical role that ensures the protection of national security information and infrastructure. If you are a problem-solver who thrives in high-stakes environments, this could be your next professional chapter.
Job Responsibilities
As a Police Officer at MWEOC, your primary mission is to maintain law and order. Your duties will be diverse and highly consequential:
- Patrol and Protection: Monitor facility grounds, structures, and perimeters to prevent unauthorized entry, theft, or sabotage.
- Emergency Response: Serve as the first line of defense, responding to accidents, injuries, and breaches of peace.
- Investigations: Conduct both short and long-term investigations, gather evidence, and prepare detailed cases for potential prosecution.
- Access Control: Regulate vehicular and pedestrian traffic while monitoring advanced alarm and surveillance systems.
Requirements
This position requires a high level of integrity and physical readiness. Key requirements include:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Successful completion of a Top Secret background investigation.
- The ability to carry and qualify with authorized firearms bi-annually.
- Capacity to work in austere conditions and environments both above and below ground.
- Participation in mandatory random drug testing.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $65,378 - $84,991 per year |
| Education Requirement | None (specialized experience required) |
| Security Clearance | Top Secret |
| Location | Round Hill, Virginia |
Salary and Benefits
FEMA offers a highly competitive salary bracket ranging from $65,378 to $84,991. Beyond the paycheck, you will enjoy a robust federal benefits package including comprehensive health insurance, a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, and generous paid time off. You will also have access to ongoing professional development and specialized law enforcement training.
Application Tips
To stand out, your resume must be concise—no more than two pages. Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure you include start and end dates, hours worked per week, and specific achievements. Do not simply copy the job duties from this page; we want to see how your unique background prepared you for these specific challenges.
Serving as a FEMA Police Officer is a rewarding way to contribute to the safety and security of the United States. If you are prepared to join a mission-focused agency and operate at the highest level of professional excellence, we encourage you to submit your application by the November 13, 2026, deadline.
Why This Police Officer Job Matters
Join the elite security team at Mount Weather and play a vital role in protecting national security infrastructure while supporting emergency management missions.
Police Officer Job Overview
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is seeking a dedicated Police Officer for the Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center (MWEOC) in Round Hill, Virginia. This position focuses on safeguarding life, federal property, and sensitive information against diverse threats, including terrorism and sabotage. As a critical member of the Emergency Services Division, you will ensure the security of this vital facility while contributing to the overall mission of national preparedness.
Requirements for Police Officer
- U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
- Must pass a Top Secret security clearance investigation.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government credit card.
- Must pass pre-employment and annual physical examinations.
- Valid state driver's license required.
- Must meet Lautenberg Agreement (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9)) requirements for carrying firearms.
- Willingness to work shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime during emergencies.
- Ability to participate in emergency exercises outside of standard duty hours.
Preferred Qualifications for Police Officer
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level in the federal government.
- Prior experience in patrolling, force protection, access control, or use of security equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to document incidents, conduct investigations, and prepare legal reports.
- Experience in law enforcement or security roles within federal, state, local, or private sectors.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401(k) equivalent) with matching contributions.
- ✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave accrual.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and tuition reimbursement options.
- ✓Employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives.
- ✓Access to fitness centers and professional training programs.
💡 How to Apply Police Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Police Officer Job
- Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages.
- Visit the USAJOBS portal to create or update your profile.
- Complete the online job questionnaire attached to the announcement.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, including SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Submit your application before the closing date of November 13, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields like hours worked and grade levels are included.
- Avoid copying the job description verbatim into your resume; describe your personal accomplishments.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your competitive service status and time-in-grade eligibility.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this role?
This position requires a Top Secret clearance as a condition of employment.
Are there opportunities for promotion?
Yes, this position has a promotion potential to the GS-07 level based on performance and mission needs.
Does this job require travel?
Yes, you must be prepared to deploy to emergency locations with little notice for extended periods.
Is there an educational requirement?
There is no formal educational substitution; you must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to various hiring authorities. Please check the 'Who May Apply' section on the USAJOBS portal.
Job from Federal Emergency Management Agency
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and FEMA are at the forefront of national resilience. FEMA’s mission is to help people before, during, and after disasters. The Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center is a unique, high-security facility nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. It serves as a vital hub for mission partners, operating in both unclassified and classified domains to ensure the continuity of government and national preparedness.