The Federal Protective Service is a program within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that provides basic law enforcement services to the federal buildings, properties and leased facilities. Because there are over 9,000 buildings and properties under the watchful eyes of the Federal Protective Service, the demand for security personnel is high, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Working at the Federal Protective Service is a popular career choice for former military members because they are used to the military command infrastructure and they have established physical security skills.
The Law Enforcement Security Officers
Law Enforcement Security Officers (LESOs) are the backbone of the Federal Protective Service. They provide security services in airports, federal buildings and public facilities. Law Enforcement Security Officers assist local police when it comes to crimes that could become national threats. They employ set strategies to achieve their mission of protecting federal properties, their occupants and the public.
Many of these security officers operate or monitor X-rays, magnetometers, alarm systems and entry control systems. They respond to security incidents and emergency response calls. Senior Law Enforcement Security Officers designing security countermeasures, conduct security assessments, perform background checks for contract employees. They also manage centralized communication centers and supervise contracted security guards.
Additional Employment Opportunities
Law Enforcement Security Officers with ample experience and qualifications often become criminal investigators who provide law enforcement support for crimes committed in federal facilities. Criminal investigators draw on a variety of sciences, such as IT, biology and psychology, to prevent and investigate crimes. They often collaborate closely with local law enforcement personnel. Some specialize in criminal forensics and crime scene investigations.
The Federal Protective Service also employs many mission support specialists who keep offices and facility centers running smoothly. The most common jobs for support specialists include case coordinator, technical support and office administrators. Because the Federal Protective Service is funded by taxpayers’ money, so the need to carefully monitor internal financial activities is a top priority. Budget analysts are accounting professionals who track and report on financial findings.
Sample Training Program
Individuals who become Law Enforcement Security Officers must successfully pass a variety of rigorous training programs. For example, instructor training classes teach officers how to provide subordinates with high-quality training while instilling the tactical skills and analytical aptitudes needed to succeed. Field training classes instruct participants how to evaluate skills through oral and written documentation. All students take interactive scenario-based training modules on unarmed defense, nonlethal weapons and firearms.
Classes on forensic techniques in crime scene investigations prepares criminal investigators and technicians in crime scene processing and investigations. Classes on interviewing techniques teach students how to effectively obtain information through proven interrogation methods and theories. Physical security training classes provide law enforcement officers with physical security procedures and vulnerability analysis techniques.
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Working in the Federal Protective Service has many career benefits. First, employees receive advanced law enforcement training on a variety of topics. This includes training in special skills and equipment that is used to identify and mitigate threats. There are continual opportunities for promotions into leadership and more challenging careers. The Federal Protective Service employs a professional workforce that maintains building security and protects property.
