Become a Guardian: Protecting the Nation with the U.S. Secret Service
Few careers offer the combination of prestige, national impact, and tactical challenge found in the U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division. We are currently recruiting highly motivated individuals for our Emergency Response Team (ERT). This specialized unit serves as a critical line of defense for the nation's leadership and highest-security facilities. If you are seeking a career where integrity, tactical skill, and commitment to excellence are the standard, this is your mission.
Job Responsibilities
As an ERT Officer, your duties are multifaceted and demanding:
- Providing full-time tactical support for the Presidential Protective Division.
- Safeguarding high-security venues, including the Vice President’s residence.
- Conducting security operations for National Special Security Events.
- Maintaining readiness for immediate deployment during threats.
Requirements
Success in this role requires meeting strict federal standards:
- Age: Minimum 20 at time of application; up to 40th birthday.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Clearance: Ability to pass a Top-Secret background investigation.
- Physical: Must pass the Applicant Physical Abilities Test (APAT).
- Experience: Preference is given to those with military combat arms or tactical law enforcement experience.
Salary and Compensation Overview
The Secret Service offers highly competitive compensation packages that reflect the expertise required for the position.
| Pay Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | $77,987 – $134,165 |
| Recruitment Bonus | $60,000 (Installment based) |
| Retirement | Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) |
| Benefits | Full Health, Dental, Vision, Life |
Benefits
Beyond the salary, we provide a robust benefits suite:
- Recruitment Incentive: A $60,000 incentive paid over four years of service.
- Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision plans.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous federal leave and paid holidays.
- Future Planning: Retirement plans and Flexible Spending Accounts.
Application Tips
- Resume Length: You have a two-page limit. Any resume longer than two pages will be rejected automatically by the system.
- Documentation: Have your DD-214 or SF-50 ready if you are a veteran or current federal employee.
- Detail: Clearly list your month/year and hours worked for every entry in your employment history.
Serving on the Emergency Response Team is not just a job; it is a commitment to the defense of American democracy. We encourage all qualified, driven individuals to apply before the December 2026 deadline.
Why This Police Officer (Secret Service Police) Emergency Response Team Job Matters
Protect the heart of American leadership. Join the U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division as an Emergency Response Team (ERT) officer and earn a $60,000 recruitment incentive while securing the nation’s most vital assets.
Police Officer (Secret Service Police) Emergency Response Team Job Overview
The U.S. Secret Service is seeking dedicated individuals for the Uniformed Division’s Emergency Response Team. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide high-level tactical protection for the White House complex, the Vice President's residence, and other critical infrastructure. As an ERT officer, you will play a pivotal role in national security, conducting specialized operations and protecting designated protectees and venues. This position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive federal benefits, and a path to a long-term career in premier law enforcement.
Requirements for Police Officer (Secret Service Police) Emergency Response Team
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current valid driver's license (REAL ID compliant)
- Must be at least 20 years old at application; maximum age typically up to 40th birthday
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance
- Successful completion of a rigorous physical fitness assessment (APAT)
- Completion of mandatory background investigations, polygraph, and medical/drug screenings
- Willingness to carry and use a firearm
Preferred Qualifications for Police Officer (Secret Service Police) Emergency Response Team
- Combat arms occupational specialty in the U.S. Armed Forces
- Prior tactical operator experience in U.S. military or law enforcement
- Completion of recognized special operations or tactical training courses
- Direct combat experience in a non-support capacity
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with potential for superior qualification pay
- ✓$60,000 recruitment incentive package
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave
- ✓Employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
💡 How to Apply Police Officer (Secret Service Police) Emergency Response Team Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Police Officer (Secret Service Police) Emergency Response Team Job
- Register and create an account on the federal employment portal.
- Submit a resume (strictly limited to two pages) and all required supporting documents.
- Complete the online questionnaire as prompted.
- Participate in Phase I testing (Entrance Exam, APAT, and interview).
- Undergo Phase II assessments, including background checks, polygraphs, and medical evaluations.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages; longer resumes will result in automatic disqualification.
- Clearly document all relevant work experience in month/year format with hours worked per week.
- Review your application thoroughly for accuracy before the closing date.
- Prepare for the Physical Abilities Test (APAT) in advance as it requires high levels of fitness.
- Ensure all security-related disclosures are complete and honest to avoid clearance issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the commitment for the recruitment incentive?
The $60,000 incentive is paid in installments over four years and requires a signed service agreement to remain with the agency for that duration.
What happens if I fail the ERT specialty training?
If you do not pass the tactical specialty training, you may still be eligible to continue your service in a non-tactical role within the Uniformed Division.
What is the training duration?
You will undergo 13 weeks of training at FLETC, followed by 18 weeks of specialized training at the James J. Rowley Training Center.
Is body art allowed?
Visible body markings on the head, face, neck, and hands are prohibited, with minor exceptions for ring-like tattoos.
Job from U.S. Secret Service
The U.S. Secret Service is a premier federal law enforcement agency with a dual mandate: safeguarding the nation's leaders and conducting complex criminal investigations into financial and cyber crimes. Our Uniformed Division officers operate with a tradition of honor and courage, ensuring the security of the White House complex and foreign missions across the globe. Joining the Secret Service means becoming part of an elite community dedicated to the safety of our country.