The Next Mission: How Local Governments Can Empower Returning Veterans
The transition from military to civilian life is more than a change in career or location; it is a profound shift in identity, structure, and support systems. Service members live in an environment where camaraderie, chain of command, and mission clarity are constants. When that structure disappears, many veterans find themselves abruptly isolated, without the rituals and routines that once defined their daily lives. This abrupt change often leads to a loss of purpose and community, both of which are closely tied to mental well-being and can contribute to elevated suicide risk.
The statistics underscore the urgency of this issue. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, an average of 17 veterans die by suicide each day, a rate significantly higher than that of the general population. Veterans account for approximately 14% of all adult suicide deaths in the United States, even though they represent only about 7% of the adult population. The risk is especially pronounced in the first year after leaving military service, when suicide rates are nearly twice as high as those of active-duty service members or long-separated veterans.
Public policy can play a critical role in softening this transition by creating structured, community-based programs that mimic the cohesion and support veterans were accustomed to. Municipal governments should invest in veteran-specific transition centers that offer not only job placement services, but also peer support, mental health resources, and ongoing mentorship. These centers should be staffed by trained professionals, ideally with military experience, who can connect with veterans authentically. A model for this exists in the Veterans Treatment Court system, which has shown success by using veteran mentors and tailored services to reduce recidivism and improve mental health outcomes for justice-involved veterans1. Programs like these can also serve as early intervention points for identifying veterans in crisis and preventing suicide.
Expanding Access to Mental Health Services at the Local Level
While the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides mental health services, access remains a challenge due to geographic, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers. Many veterans, particularly those in rural areas, do not live near a VA facility or feel uncomfortable engaging with federal institutions due to past negative experiences or stigma. These barriers can delay or prevent access to critical mental health support, increasing the risk of untreated depression, PTSD, and suicidality. In fact, veterans living in rural areas have suicide rates up to 20% higher than their urban counterparts, highlighting the need for targeted local intervention.
Municipal governments can help close this access gap by partnering with local nonprofits, clinics, and universities to offer culturally competent mental health care tailored to veterans' needs.
One practical step is to incorporate veteran services within existing municipal health departments. Cities like Los Angeles have piloted co-location models where VA social workers are embedded in city-run housing and health services offices2. Expanding these collaborations can reduce the friction veterans experience when navigating multiple bureaucracies. Additionally, municipal budgets should include funding for mental health first aid training for frontline city employees, especially those in libraries, parks, and housing services, who often interact with veterans but lack formal support training3. These employees can serve as crucial gatekeepers in identifying veterans in distress and connecting them to lifesaving resources.
Creating Employment Pipelines for Veterans
Employment is a key factor in successful reintegration and long-term mental health. However, veterans often struggle to translate military roles into civilian job qualifications. Persistent unemployment or underemployment can contribute to financial stress, social isolation, and a sense of diminished self-worth - all of which are risk factors for suicide. According to the VA, unemployed veterans are more than twice as likely to die by suicide compared to those who are employed, emphasizing the importance of stable job placement as a preventive measure.
Municipal governments can lead by example through veteran hiring preferences, targeted job training programs, and partnerships with local employers. Cities can also work with community colleges to design certification programs that recognize military experience toward credentials in skilled trades, public safety, or logistics.
Municipalities should also consider establishing veteran employment liaisons within their workforce development departments. These roles would serve as both navigators and advocates, helping veterans connect to job opportunities that match their skills while educating employers on the value veterans bring. For example, the city of San Antonio, home to one of the largest concentrations of military personnel in the country, has implemented veteran-focused employment initiatives that have shown promising results in reducing veteran unemployment4. Stable employment can provide not only income but also a renewed sense of purpose and belonging, which are protective factors against suicide.
Building Veteran-Specific Housing Solutions
Stable housing is foundational to mental health and reintegration. Veterans are overrepresented in the homeless population, with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) estimating that over 33,000 veterans were homeless on a single night in 20225. Housing instability is strongly correlated with increased suicide risk; veterans experiencing homelessness are nearly 10 times more likely to die by suicide than their housed peers. This makes it imperative for municipalities to prioritize veteran housing in local zoning and development plans, especially for supportive housing that includes on-site services.
Cities can also leverage federal programs like HUD-VASH, which combines HUD housing vouchers with VA case management, but these efforts often require local coordination. Municipal governments should appoint a veteran housing coordinator to ensure that local housing authorities, nonprofits, and developers are aligned in their goals. Programs like the Veterans Housing Initiative in Phoenix, Arizona, which integrates wraparound services with permanent housing, have demonstrated success in reducing chronic veteran homelessness6. Such models not only provide shelter but also reduce isolation and offer access to mental health services, lowering the risk of suicide.
Fostering Community Integration and Belonging
Beyond services and benefits, veterans need a sense of belonging. Municipal governments can create community-building programs that actively include veterans in civic life. This can include forming veterans advisory councils to inform city policy, hosting veteran appreciation events that go beyond symbolic gestures, and integrating veterans into volunteer and leadership roles within neighborhoods. Social connectedness and community engagement are proven protective factors against suicide and can be especially impactful for veterans who may feel alienated post-service.
A practical approach is to build community events that mirror military traditions, such as unit reunions or service projects, but adapted to civilian settings. Programs like Team Rubicon, which engages veterans in disaster response alongside civilians, are effective because they restore a sense of mission and team-based action7. Municipalities can partner with such organizations or create local equivalents to embed veterans in meaningful activities that benefit the broader community while supporting their mental health. These shared missions can build camaraderie and reduce feelings of isolation, directly contributing to suicide prevention.
Investing in Long-Term Support and Coordination
Many public policies focus on short-term reintegration, such as immediate job placement or emergency mental health intervention. However, the effects of military service can emerge years or even decades later. Suicide risk does not always surface immediately after discharge; it can be triggered by cumulative stressors over time. A 2020 VA report found that suicide rates among veterans aged 18-34 increased by over 90% between 2006 and 2018, illustrating the long-term nature of this crisis. Municipal governments must recognize that supporting veterans is a longitudinal commitment that requires durable infrastructure. This means integrating veteran services into long-term planning efforts, such as comprehensive community health assessments and strategic workforce development plans.
Coordination across city departments and with state and federal partners is essential. Municipalities should establish a veterans affairs office or task force charged with aligning local efforts and tracking progress over time. Regularly updated dashboards on veteran outcomes - such as employment, housing stability, and mental health access - can support data-driven decision making and ensure accountability. Cities like Seattle and Minneapolis have adopted such coordination strategies to better serve their veteran populations over the long haul8. By maintaining long-term oversight, municipalities can identify emerging trends in veteran suicide risk and proactively adjust services to meet evolving needs.
Bibliography
Russell, Robert T., “Veterans Treatment Courts,” Touro Law Review 29, no. 2 (2013): 385–394.
Los Angeles Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs, “Veterans Integration Strategy,” City of Los Angeles, 2020.
National Council for Mental Wellbeing, “Mental Health First Aid for Veterans,” accessed May 2024, https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org.
City of San Antonio, “Veteran Resources and Programs,” 2023, https://www.sanantonio.gov/MilitaryAffairs.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, “The 2022 Annual Homeless Assessment Report (AHAR) to Congress,” December 2022.
Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services, “Phoenix Veterans Housing Initiative,” 2021.
Team Rubicon, “Our Mission,” accessed May 2024, https://www.teamrubiconusa.org.
City of Seattle Office of Housing, “Veteran Housing and Services Coordination,” 2022.
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About The Role The Social Services Professional role at the King County Veterans Program provides comprehensive services including assessment, counseling, guidance, and supportive services to eligible veterans, service members, and their families. This posting is used to fill three Career Service roles and five Term-Limited Temporary roles. Positions may be assigned to either the Tukwila or Northgate/Seattle office locations depending on operational need. Key Responsibilities - Provide case management services to King County veterans, service members, and their families. - Determine client eligibility for various veteran and social service programs according to complex local, state, and federal regulations. - Complete extensive eligibility documentation and program assessment tools for barriers to employment, housing, benefits, and productive living. - Develop and maintain strong working relationships with the veteran social services community, community-based organizations, and government programs. - Assist veterans in finding and keeping housing through comprehensive planning, housing search, and coordination with housing systems and partners. - Assist veterans in identifying and reaching employment goals through comprehensive planning, referrals, and retention services. - Prepare, track, and responsibly distribute King County financial assistance resources and communicate with community vendors. - Mediate, problem-solve, advocate, and coordinate individual services for veterans and their families. - Provide de-escalation and crisis support to clients. Minimum Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in social work or related field and at least two years of recent social work or case management experience. Qualifying work experience may substitute year for year of education. - Recent experience with adults presenting multiple and complex problems requiring coordination of cross-sector systems. - Knowledge of federal and state laws pertaining to the rights, privileges, and benefits for veterans and military personnel. - Demonstrated ability to complete eligibility and assessment tools and extensive technical documentation. - Demonstrated experience developing housing plans, matching clients with housing, and assisting clients to find and keep employment. - Proficiency in the use of personal computers, including MS Word, MS Excel, database client management systems, Internet, and Outlook. Special Requirements - Ability to pass a post-offer/pre-hire Washington State Patrol Background Check. - Ability to travel around the county in a timely manner. - Designated as Mission Critical; expected to report to work or request leave during an emergency or inclement weather. - Desired qualifications include recent experience working with veterans in King County, in-depth knowledge of veteran systems, knowledge of crisis intervention, and experience tracking and distributing financial assistance. Selection Process - Interviews will take place on or around the week of September 14, 2026. - The selection process will fill current vacancies and may create a pool of qualified candidates for additional positions opening within the next 6 months. - Candidates must submit an online King County application and respond to the supplemental questions. How To Apply - Submit an online King County application and respond to the supplemental questions. - Provide detailed work history highlighting your ability to fulfill the requirements. - Applications stating see my resume are considered incomplete and will not be competitive. - For questions or accommodation requests, contact Alicia Larsen at alarsen@kingcounty.gov. Employment Details - Location: Multiple locations in King County, WA (Tukwila or Northgate/Seattle). - Job Type: Career Service (Exec), Full Time. - Hours: 40 hours/week, Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm, full-time on-site. - Department: DCHS - Community & Human Srvcs, Adult Services Division. - Opening Date: 08/14/2026. - Closing Date: 8/29/2026 11:59 PM Pacific. - FLSA: Non-Exempt (overtime eligible with supervisory pre-approval). - Bargaining Unit: H8 : PSEU-Non-Comm's DCHS (PSEU Local 519). - Employer Address: King County, King Street Center, 201 South Jackson Street, Seattle, Washington, 98104.
ABOUT THE ROLE The U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) is recruiting for Supervisory Police Officers using Direct Hire Authority. This position serves as a Shift Supervisor for the Law Enforcement force at various Army installations. The role involves managing personnel administration, evaluating performance, resolving complaints, administering discipline, and providing sworn testimony based on investigative findings. This is an open continuous announcement with applications reviewed bi-weekly. Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Serve as Shift Supervisor for Law Enforcement forces under the authority of the Senior Commander - Manage all aspects of personnel administration, including performance evaluations, complaint resolution, and discipline - Provide sworn testimony based on investigative findings - Perform law enforcement activities such as patrol, criminal investigations, forensics, data analysis, and tactical operations - Provide training and guidance on law enforcement regulations and procedures - Lead security or law enforcement teams MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-08 level, which includes: - Performing law enforcement activities (patrol, criminal investigations, forensics, data analysis, administration, community outreach, tactical operations) - Providing training and guidance on law enforcement regulations and procedures - Leading security or law enforcement teams - Experience may be gained in police forces, military police, visitor protection in parks/forests, or criminal investigative duties - No substitution of education for experience is permitted - U.S. Citizenship required PREFERRED SKILLS - Experience in law enforcement leadership roles - Strong administrative and personnel management skills - Ability to provide effective training and guidance SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance - Must successfully complete the United States Army Civilian Police Academy program within one year - Must be proficient in the use of assigned firearms - Must pass pre-employment physical examination and annual examinations thereafter - Must pass primary physical fitness/agility test (PAT) within 30 days of employment and annually thereafter - Must obtain certification in the Individual Reliability Program (IRP) per Army Regulation 190-56 - Subject to pre-employment and random drug testing - Must possess a valid state driver’s license and obtain a government motor vehicle operator’s license - Must work planned and unscheduled overtime, including evenings, weekends, and holidays - Must wear uniform and/or protective clothing and equipment - Subject to one-year probationary period for supervisory duties - Must comply with the Lautenberg Amendment (Domestic Violence Offender Gun Ban) - Male applicants born after Dec 31, 1959, must complete Selective Service Registration statement SELECTION PROCESS - Application package review (resume, supporting documents, questionnaire) - Bi-weekly review of applications for referral as vacancies occur - Evaluation based on qualification requirements - Veterans and Military Spouses considered along with other candidates HOW TO APPLY - Apply online via USAJOBS by 11:59 PM EST on August 25, 2026 - Submit complete application package including: - Resume (max 2 pages; must include employer name, job title, start/end dates, hours/week, and brief description of duties) - Online Questionnaire responses - Proof of U.S. Citizenship - Other supporting documents as applicable (e.g., DD-214 for veterans, SF-50 for federal employees) - Note: Resumes exceeding 2 pages will be removed from consideration. Incomplete packages will not be considered. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Multiple locations including Redstone Arsenal (AL), Rock Island (IL), Aberdeen Proving Ground (MD), Fort Detrick (MD), Fort Meade (MD), Picatinny Arsenal (NJ), Fort Belvoir (VA), Fort Myer (VA), and others - Department: Department of the Army, IMCOM, Directorate of Emergency Services - Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent - Pay Scale: GS-09 - Promotion Potential: None - Telework Eligible: No - Travel Required: Occasional (approx. 10%) - Security Clearance: Secret - Announcement Number: MCFT-26-12966993-DHA-S - Control Number: 870651200 - Benefits: Potential relocation reimbursement; salary negotiations may be authorized for new federal hires
ABOUT THE ROLE The U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) is hiring Supervisory Police Officers to serve as Shift Supervisors for law enforcement forces at various Army installations. This role involves directing the work of assigned officers, managing personnel administration, evaluating performance, resolving complaints, and administering discipline. The position requires providing sworn testimony based on investigative findings and ensuring mission readiness during emergencies. This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation for the Competitive Service. The position is designated as Mission Essential. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Serve as Shift Supervisor for the law enforcement force. - Direct the work of assigned law enforcement officers. - Manage personnel administration, including performance evaluations, complaint resolution, and discipline. - Provide sworn testimony based on investigative findings. - Ensure coverage during evenings, weekends, holidays, and special situations. - Report to work or remain at work during severe weather or emergency situations. - Maintain proficiency in weapons and National Incident Management System (NIMS) training. - Pass annual Physical Agility Tests (PAT) and maintain Individual Reliability Program (IRP) requirements. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-08 level, including: 1. Performing law enforcement activities such as patrol, criminal investigations, forensics, data analysis, administration, community outreach, and tactical operations. 2. Providing training and guidance on law enforcement regulations and procedures. 3. Leading security or law enforcement teams. - Note: No substitution of education for experience is permitted for this position. - U.S. Citizenship. - Valid state Driver’s License. - Must meet Lautenberg Amendment requirements (no domestic violence convictions). SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Shift Work: Rotating shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Overtime (planned and unscheduled) is required. - Training/Certification: - Must successfully graduate from the US Army Civilian Police Academy within one year of hire (unless waived by OPMG). - Certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) with Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) training. - Weapons qualifications and NIMS training. - Physical Fitness: Must pass Physical Agility Test (PAT) within 30 days of hire and annually thereafter per AR 190-56. - Drug Testing: Subject to pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and post-accident drug testing. - Background Investigation: Required for suitability/fitness determination. - Probation: One-year supervisory probationary period required unless previously completed. - Resume Limit: Resumes must be two pages or less. Resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. - Travel: 25% Temporary Duty (TDY) or business travel may be required. SELECTION PROCESS - Open Continuous Announcement: Applications reviewed bi-weekly. - Evaluation based on resume, supporting documents, and online questionnaire responses. - Inflation of qualifications may result in loss of consideration. - Veterans and Military Spouses are considered along with other candidates. - Priority Placement Program (PPP) preference may be claimed. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online via USAJOBS. - Deadline: August 25, 2026, by 11:59 p.m. ET. - Required Documents: - Resume: Max 2 pages. Must include employer name, job title, start/end dates (MM/YYYY), hours per week, and description of duties showing specialized experience. - Cover Letter: Optional. - Performance Appraisal: If applicable. - Announcement Number: MCFU-26-12970032-DHAS - Control Number: 870669500 - Contact: Army Applicant Help Desk (USARMY.APG.CHRA-NE.MBX.APPLICANTHELP@ARMY.MIL) EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Department of the Army, IMCOM - Locations: Multiple vacancies across various installations including Yuma County (AZ); Camp Parks, Desert, Fort Hunter Liggett, Fort Irwin (CA); Fort Carson (CO); Doral, Jacksonville, Miami (FL); Fort Stewart (GA); Fort Riley (KS); Fort Campbell (KY); Fort Polk (LA); Fort Devens (MA); Fort Bragg (NC); White Sands Missile Range (NM); Fort Drum (NY); Fort Buchanan (PR); Fort Bliss, Fort Hood (TX); Dugway Proving Ground (UT); Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Yakima (WA); Fort McCoy (WI). - Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time, Competitive Service - Work Site Options: No telework; no remote work. - Travel: Occasional travel (25%). - Union Representation: Yes (determined by location). - Drug Test: Yes. - Security Clearance: Secret. - Equal Opportunity Employer: The Department of the Army is committed to diversity and inclusion.
ABOUT THE ROLE The U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) is hiring Lead Police Officers for various Army installations. This position involves leading a patrol team of three or more officers, including Department of Army Civilian Police (DACP), Military Police (MP), and Department of Army Security Guards (DASG). The incumbent provides direct oversight of investigations, conducts law enforcement training, and reports team performance to leadership. This is a Mission Essential position requiring shift work, overtime, and the ability to obtain a Secret security clearance. Multiple vacancies exist across several locations. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead a patrol team of three or more officers (DACP, MP, DASG). - Provide direct oversight of all stages of investigations conducted by assigned personnel. - Provide sworn testimony based on investigative findings. - Report team performance and training needs to leadership. - Conduct various law enforcement training programs for military and civilian personnel on the installation. - Respond to and investigate emergency calls, complaints, and other calls for service. - Exercise search and arrest authority. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen. - Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level, including: 1. Experience responding to and investigating emergency calls, complaints, and other calls for service; exercising search and arrest authority. 2. Experience conducting traffic patrol using specialized equipment such as radar, Lidar, and breathalyzer. 3. Experience utilizing word processing and web-based law enforcement computer programs to complete reports, document incidents, or criminal investigations. - Note: No substitution of education for experience is permitted. Creditable experience may include work on a police force, military police service, park/forest law enforcement, or criminal investigative duties. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Security Clearance: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. - Training: Must successfully complete the United States Army Civilian Police Academy program within one year of hire. - Physical Fitness: Must pass the primary physical fitness/agility test (PAT) within 30 days of employment and annually thereafter. Must complete a pre-employment and annual physical examination. - Certifications: Must maintain proficiency with assigned firearms, First Aid/CPR, and National Incident Management System (NIMS) training. Must be certified in the Individual Reliability Program (IRP). - Driver's License: Must possess a valid state driver’s license and be able to obtain/maintain a government motor vehicle operator’s license. - Drug Testing: Subject to pre-employment screening and random drug testing. - Work Schedule: Shift work (evenings, weekends, holidays), rotating shifts, and planned/unscheduled overtime. Mission Essential status requires reporting during emergencies. - Legal: Subject to the Lautenberg Amendment (Domestic Violence Offender Gun Ban). Felony convictions after January 20, 2001, result in removal. - Resume Limit: Resumes must be two pages or less. Resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. SELECTION PROCESS This is an Open Continuous Announcement using Direct Hire Authority for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce. Applications are reviewed bi-weekly and referred for selection as vacancies occur. Evaluation is based on the application package (resume, supporting documents, questionnaire). Veterans and Military Spouses are considered along with all other candidates. HOW TO APPLY Apply online via USAJOBS by 11:59 PM EST on August 25, 2026. Required Documents: - Resume (maximum 2 pages, must include employer name, job title, start/end dates, hours per week, and description of duties). - Proof of Eligibility (e.g., DD-214 for veterans, SF-50 for federal employees). - Other supporting documents as applicable (e.g., Performance Appraisal). Note: Ensure all documents are uploaded. Incomplete packages will not be considered. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Department of the Army, IMCOM - Locations: Multiple vacancies in Redstone Arsenal (AL), Rock Island (IL), Aberdeen Proving Ground (MD), Fort Detrick (MD), Fort Meade (MD), Prince George's County (MD), Silver Spring (MD), Picatinny Arsenal (NJ), Charlottesville County (VA), Fort AP Hill (VA), Fort Belvoir (VA), and Fort Myer (VA). - Schedule: Full-Time, Permanent - Series: 0083 Police - Pay Scale: GS-8 - Travel: Occasional (10%) - Union Representation: Yes - Drug Test: Yes - Security Clearance: Secret (Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk) - Relocation: Expenses may be reimbursed in accordance with agency policy. PCS allowances may be authorized if in the Government interest. - Benefits: Federal employee benefits including annual leave (credit for prior non-Federal/military service may apply), health insurance, and retirement plans.
ABOUT THE ROLE The U.S. Army Installation Management Command (IMCOM) is recruiting Police Officers for various Army installations across the United States using Direct Hire Authority (DHA). This position involves exercising exclusive law enforcement jurisdiction on Army installations, enforcing Federal criminal laws and the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ), and protecting government property and personnel. Officers patrol assigned areas, investigate crimes, and ensure the safety and security of the installation community. This is a Mission Essential position requiring shift work and overtime as needed. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Exercise exclusive law enforcement jurisdiction for apprehension or detention of persons suspected of offenses against U.S. criminal laws. - Enforce Federal criminal laws and the UCMJ involving persons and property. - Protect government property, materials, and facilities against trespass, theft, fire, damage, and espionage. - Detain or arrest suspected or guilty persons; collect and protect evidence, witnesses, and victims. - Patrol assigned areas by vehicle or on foot to preserve peace, prevent crime, and protect lives and property. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Candidates must be U.S. Citizens. Qualifications vary by grade level: GS-5 Level: - Specialized Experience: One year of experience equivalent to GS-04, including applying basic laws/regulations, assisting with law enforcement operations, and maintaining order/protecting life and property. - OR Education: Four years of education above high school leading to a bachelor’s degree in Police Science, Criminal Justice, or related field. - OR Combination: A combination of education and experience totaling 100% of requirements. - Note: Police academy completion (min. 40 classroom hours) may substitute for 3 months of specialized experience. GS-6 Level: - Specialized Experience: One year of experience equivalent to GS-05, including maintaining order/protecting life, responding to citizens in emergency/non-emergency situations, and protecting property against hazards. - Note: No substitution of education for experience is permitted for GS-6. GS-7 Level: - Specialized Experience: One year of experience equivalent to GS-06, including performing law enforcement investigations, collecting/preserving evidence, and preparing incident statements. - Note: No substitution of education for experience is permitted for GS-7. PREFERRED SKILLS - Experience in military police service or civilian police forces. - Experience in visitor protection in parks or natural resource environments. - Strong investigative and report-writing skills. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Security Clearance: Must obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. - Drug Testing: Subject to pre-employment screening and random testing under the Drug Free Workplace Program. - Physical Requirements: Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and an annual Physical Agility Test (PAT) within 30 days of hire and annually thereafter. Must maintain physical conditioning. - Training: Must successfully complete the US Army Civilian Police Academy within 12 months of hire (unless grandfathered or waived). Must complete NIMS training and CPR/AED certification. - Driver’s License: Must possess a valid state driver’s license. SELECTION PROCESS Direct Hire Authority. Open continuous announcement. Applications are reviewed bi-weekly and referred for selection as vacancies occur. Veterans and Military Spouses are considered along with all other candidates. Evaluation is based on resume, supporting documents, and questionnaire responses. HOW TO APPLY Apply online via USAJOBS. Complete the online questionnaire and submit required documentation. Required Documents: - Resume (Max 2 pages, must include employer name, job title, dates, hours/week, and duty description). - Transcripts (if qualifying based on education for GS-5). - Supporting documents for preference/eligibility (e.g., DD-214, SF-50) if applicable. Closing Date: August 25, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET. Announcement Number: MCFT-26-12966416-DHA-S EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Agency: Department of the Army, United States Army Installation Management Command - Locations: Multiple vacancies at Redstone Arsenal (AL), Rock Island (IL), Aberdeen Proving Ground (MD), Fort Detrick/Meade (MD), Prince George's/Silver Spring (MD), Picatinny Arsenal (NJ), Charlottesville/Fort AP Hill/Fort Belvoir/Fort Myer (VA). - Type: Full-Time, Permanent - Series: 0083 Police - Federal Service Type: Competitive Service - Supervisory Status: No - Union Representation: Yes - Drug Test: Yes - Security Clearance: Secret - Benefits: Federal benefits package including health insurance, retirement, and paid leave. Relocation expenses may be reimbursed. Credit for prior non-Federal/military service may apply toward annual leave accrual. - Equal Opportunity: The Department of the Army is an equal opportunity employer.