Police Officer; Lateral Transfer

Overview

Police Officer (Lateral Transfer)

Announcement number/Req

Closing date: 2/28/2026

Pay scale & grade: LP 02-02

Salary: 86,530. PA

Job series: 0083

Appointment type:
Permanent

Work schedule:

Full-Time

Locations:
Washington, DC 20001 (many vacancies)

Relocation expenses reimbursed:
No

Telework eligible:
False

The United States Capitol Police (USCP) safeguards Congress, Members of Congress, employees, visitors, and Congressional buildings and grounds from crime, disruption, and terrorism. The USCP protects and secures Congress so it can fulfill its constitutional and legislative responsibilities in a safe, secure, and open environment.

Responsibilities

• Enforces Federal and District of Columbia laws and USCP rules and regulations related to law enforcement.
• Physically protects the U.S. Capitol complex, Members of Congress, visitors, and staff from threats; preserves law and order; deters crime and other violations.
• Takes charge of accidents and crime scenes, restricts access, observes, stops, and questions suspicious persons.
• Prepares reports and testifies in court.
• Performs protective services, safeguards Federally-owned buildings and property, and protects government equipment and property.
• Opportunities for future promotions after training, probationary period, and meeting experience requirements. USCP specialized areas include Special Operations Division, Canine Section, Containment Emergency Response Division, Dignitary Protection Division, Intelligence Analysis Division, Intelligence Operations Division, Criminal Investigations Section, Threat Assessment Section, and Hazardous Incident Response Division.

As a lateral transfer, applicants may be older than certain age limits if already in Federal law enforcement with retirement coverage. Must be a United States citizen and meet the required background investigations and medical, psychological, and polygraph assessments as part of the hiring process. Must possess and maintain a valid REAL  U.S. driver’s license and a responsible driving record. See the detailed listing below for education, experience, and medical requirements.

• Must have completed one of the following: FLETC UPTP; FLETA accredited military or other equivalent police training program; or CBP training programs (USBPI or CBPOPT). Certificate must be included with application.
• Must be current law enforcement and possess specified law enforcement experience (e.g., 9 months post-training at time of application; 52 weeks at time of appointment).
• Must be a current law enforcement employee outside USCP.
• Examinations: psychological, medical, and polygraph examinations. Background investigation including employment history, criminal and credit history, and driving record.
• Must be a United States citizen and meet age requirements and other background standards described in the job posting.

High School diploma or GED required. Must have completed FLETC UPTP, FLETA military or equivalent training, or CBP programs (USBPI or CBPOPT).

• Criminal history check, credit check, and fingerprint check required.
• Selective Service registration for males or exemption where applicable.
• Duty requires firearm possession and compliance with grooming and uniform standards.
• Shift work; nights, weekends, and holidays may be required. One-year probationary period after basic training.

The USCP offers a competitive starting salary and benefits package, including health, dental, vision, life and long-term care insurance, Thrift Savings Plan, flexible spending accounts, and more. See the full benefit details in the posting.

Navigate to the USCP Careers page and follow the prompts to upload your resume and supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire. Ensure all documentation is submitted before the closing date.

Applications are reviewed in order of receipt. You will receive email notifications about status. If considered, provide requested documents promptly and complete all training phases (Phase 1: USCP Academy in Cheltenham, MD; Phase 2: USCP Police Training Officer Program in Washington, DC; Phase 3: Firearms Refresher Training).

Automatic disqualifiers include felonies, domestic violence, DUI/DWI, illegal drug use, less than honorable discharge, or providing false information. Some feedback may not be provided due to confidentiality.

Agency Contact:
Police Officer Recruitment, OCAO-Office of Human Resources, 119 D Street NE

Email: policeofficer recruitment