Serving Those Who Served: Become a VA Police Officer in Sioux Falls

Are you looking to transition into a career where your daily work directly impacts the safety and well-being of America's Veterans? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking a motivated, professional, and physically capable individual to join the Police Service at the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System in South Dakota. This role offers more than just a paycheck; it provides a pathway to a stable federal career with comprehensive benefits.

Job Responsibilities

As a VA Police Officer, your primary mission is to ensure the security of the facility. Your duties will include:

Patrolling: Conducting foot and motor vehicle patrols to detect and deter criminal activity.
Security Operations: Maintaining order, protecting civil rights, and securing crime scenes.
Response: Serving as the first line of defense during medical or security emergencies, providing CPR or first aid as needed.
Reporting: Documenting all shift activities, incidents, and investigations with high attention to detail.

Requirements

This is a federal law enforcement position with high standards of character and fitness. Key requirements include:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Driver's License: Possess a valid, unrestricted state license with a safe driving record.
Firearms: Ability to pass qualification for agency-approved duty weapons.
Training: Willingness to attend an 8-week mandatory course at the VA Law Enforcement Training Center.

Salary and Comparison

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$49,711 - $64,623 / Year
Location	Sioux Falls, SD
Shift Type	12-hour rotating shifts
Benefits	Full Federal Benefits Package

Benefits

Joining the VA comes with an impressive suite of federal benefits, including:

Health and Wellness: Access to federal employee health insurance programs.
Retirement: A robust pension system paired with the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accrual policies.
Tax Advantage: Benefit from living in a state with no individual state income tax.

Application Tips

The federal application process can be rigorous. To stand out:

Respect the 2-page limit: Ensure your resume is concise and targeted.
Documentation: Be clear about hours worked per week and specific dates.
Assessments: Take the USA Hire assessment seriously—it is a critical part of your evaluation.

If you possess the integrity and physical stamina to protect the men and women who have served our country, this is an incredible opportunity. Start your application today and take the first step toward a rewarding career with the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Why This Police Officer Job Matters

Protect those who protected us—join the Sioux Falls VA as a Police Officer and make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's heroes.

Police Officer Job Overview

The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Police Officer to join our team in South Dakota. As a federal law enforcement professional, you will play a critical role in maintaining safety, security, and order across the medical center grounds. You will provide vital protection for our Veterans, staff, and visitors while operating within a modern, compassionate, and whole-health-centered environment.

Requirements for Police Officer

U.S. Citizenship
Valid, unrestricted state driver's license
Ability to carry and qualify with agency-approved firearms
Pass a pre-employment medical and psychological examination
Pass a urinalysis screening for illegal drugs
Completion of an 8-week training course at the VA Law Enforcement Training Center
Successful completion of a background and character investigation
Ability to perform strenuous physical exertion including running and lifting 50+ lbs

Preferred Qualifications for Police Officer

One year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level or equivalent
Demonstrated knowledge of law enforcement operations, practices, and techniques
Proven experience in maintaining order, conducting patrol, and emergency response
Ability to effectively document activities and prepare detailed reports

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
✓Life and long-term care insurance programs
✓Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual
✓Federal retirement pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
✓Professional development and training opportunities
✓No state income tax in South Dakota

💡 How to Apply Police Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Police Officer Job

Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less
Complete the initial online questionnaire
Submit your application and required supporting documents
Complete the required USA Hire online assessment after notification
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes month and year start/end dates for all relevant experience.
Be specific about your duties—do not just list job titles.
Save your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting.
Use the resume builder tool if you are struggling to meet the two-page limit.
Set aside at least three hours for the USA Hire assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What physical demands should I expect?

You will need to perform strenuous activities like running, climbing stairs, and carrying heavy equipment. Stamina and physical agility are essential for apprehending suspects or handling emergency scenarios.

Is the 8-week training course mandatory?

Yes, attendance and successful completion of the VA Law Enforcement Training Center course in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a firm requirement for continued employment.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is a vital part of the VA Midwest Healthcare System (VISN 23). As a teaching hospital, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, whole-health care to those who served in our military. Our environment is collaborative, compassionate, and mission-driven, ensuring that every employee is a valued part of the healing process for our nation's heroes.