Police Officer; Private - US Federal Service

Summary

The United States Park Police is the law enforcement arm of the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service tasked with investigating and apprehending criminal actors. The agency is committed to deploying precision-based enforcement, intelligence-led operations, and rapid response capabilities to address emerging threats to the homeland.

Hiring bonuses up to $70,000 over four years may be available. This is a TERM position (initial appointment of at least 13 months, may extend up to four years).

The major duties of a Police Officer include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Safeguarding the National Park Service icons and symbols of democracy as well as other parks and jurisdictional areas in the Washington Metropolitan Area.
• Prevent, detect, and investigate criminal activity. Pursue and ensure criminal actors are apprehended.
• Cooperate with and assist other law enforcement agencies. Regularly work with state, local, and federal partners to enhance safety and reduce crime.

Specialty Units available through competitive selection and training include:

• Motorcycle Unit
• Aviation Unit
• Special Weapons and Tactics (S.W.A.T.)
• K-9 Unit
• Marine Patrol Unit
• Major Crimes Unit
• Crime Scene Identification Unit
• Narcotics and Vice Unit
• Traffic Safety Unit
• Horse Mounted Patrol
• Intelligence and Counter terrorism Branch
• Physical Security / Icon Protection Unit
• Multi-Agency Task Force Positions
• Dignitary Protection

• U.S. citizenship required.
• Male applicants must be registered with the Selective Service.
• Participation in Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• Subject to background investigation and must achieve and maintain a "Secret" security clearance.
• Must submit to a drug test and pass with a negative result.
• Must pass a pre-employment medical exam, meeting specified vision and color vision requirements.
• New employees or supervisors in the Federal government must complete a one-year probationary period.
• Valid driver's license (Real ) required.
• Must be legally able to possess firearms and maintain proficiency.
• No felony convictions; no current pending criminal charges; no domestic violence convictions.
• Multiple misdemeanors may also lead to disqualification.
• Must meet age requirements and be retired on or before the opening date.
• Additional probationary conditions apply.

All qualifications must be met by the closing date (March 31 2026).

Qualifying experience of at least one year, progressively responsible, demonstrating the ability to apply complex regulations and laws. Examples include police, military police, specialized security, visitor protection, and criminal investigations. Non‑law‑enforcement experience may count if it demonstrates independent critical-task management.

• OR successfully completed 60 credit hours (2 years) of higher education.
• OR a combination of education and experience as described.

Volunteer experience is credited, including National Service programs and other community work.

• Sick Leave – 104 hours per year, accrues without limit. 12 weeks of paid parental leave for eligible employees.
• Annual Leave – 13 days for first three years, 20 days thereafter, 26 days after 15 years.
• Overtime – 1.5 times hourly pay or compensatory time.
• Premium Pay – Night Differential 10% of hourly pay for 6:00 PM‑6:00 AM;
  Sunday premium 25%.
• Retirement – Federal Law Enforcement Retirement System with 20 years service at 50 years of age, or 25 years at any age.

Candidates must pass an extensive physical examination, a physical performance test, and meet age requirements. Duties may involve work alone in potentially armed or aggressive environments, requiring agility, endurance, and proficiency in self-defense and apprehension.

A one‑year probationary period evaluates performance and the agency’s public‑interest goals. Without written certification of continued employment beyond this period, the appointment terminates automatically.