Created at: December 02, 2025 00:09
Company: U.S. Secret Service
Location: Wilmington, DE, 19801
Job Description:
Joining the Secret Service, as an Investigative Protection Officer (IPO) allows you to perform assignments that support an integrated protective and investigative mission which plans, directs, coordinates, and implements domestic and international protective and investigative policies, programs, and operations of the Secret Service. This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) Announcement - Veterans' Preference does not apply.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GL-07) performing at least 2 of the 3 duties such as: Assisting in investigative responsibilities to include physical surveillance and monitoring protective activities and active criminal investigations; Assisting in protective advances to identify critical and vulnerable facilities and sites for visible threats; or Providing routine technical advice and guidance regarding protection and law enforcement operations, physical security, crime prevention, force protections and operations security. OR Master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in an accredited college or university leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D. if related. Such education must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work. OR A combination of education and experience listed above. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GL-09) performing 3 of the 4 duties such as: Assisting in investigative activities including interrogating suspects, gathering evidence, conducting physical surveillance; Assisting in protective surveillance including the use of electronic, protective systems and devices for physical protection; Assisting in preparing reports, drawing conclusions, and developing and presenting written materials and presentations; or Interpreting and applying laws and regulations related to investigation and protective services. OR Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in an accredited college or university leading to such a degree or LL.M, if related. Such education must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work. OR A combination of education and experience listed above. The qualification requirements listed above must be met by the closing date of this announcement. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office. Applicants must successfully complete and pass Phase 1 assessment (see below) to receive a Conditional Job Offer. In addition, applicants must successfully complete and pass Phase II assessments (see below) to receive final consideration for employment. Phase I: National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Phase II: Credit Check Security Interview Polygraph Examination Drug Screening Medical Examination Background Investigation (Top-Secret Clearance) The Secret Service follows stringent guidelines relating to illegal drug usage. An applicant's history is reviewed and a determination for employment is made according to our guidelines. For more information regarding the U.S. Secret Service drug guidelines, please click here to view our Drug Policy. General Medical Requirements: As determined by OPM the duties of this position require moderate to arduous physical exertion involving walking and standing, use of firearms, and exposure to inclement weather. Manual dexterity with comparatively free motion of fingers, wrist, elbows, shoulders, hips and knee joints is required. Arms, hands, legs and feet must function sufficiently in order for applicants to perform the duties satisfactorily. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
The selectee will serve as an Investigative Protection Officer conducting a range of law enforcement activities which involve: Conducting investigative functions: surveillance, searching for physical evidence, seizure of contraband, equipment, vehicles, securing and serving warrants, making arrests, developing evidence for presentation, testifying in court, preparing reports and carrying out undercover operations. Preparing and developing plans for the implantation of protective services, participating in security surveys of locations, coordinating security requirements with internal and external law enforcement. Preforming duties concerning the physical protection of personnel, facilities, and assets. Monitoring and operating communications and screening equipment, employing various x-ray and screening technologies Apply for this exciting opportunity to directly impact the mission of the agency by providing operational support to protective operations and criminal investigations. This Investigative Protection Officer position starts at a base salary of $53,945.00,GS-9/11, step 1, with promotion potential to $82,108.00 GS-11 step 10.This salary range reflects the base salaries for this position. Locality pay will be determined by the selected duty location.