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Become a Federal Air Marshal | Education, Career, & Salary Insights

Federal Air Marshal

Though federal air marshals have long played an important role in air and transit safety, they became very important after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Becoming an air marshal requires the ability to work independently, protect yourself and others with self-defense tactics and firearms usage, and know how to respond to emergencies. If you are interested in working for the Transportation Security Administration, contact the schools featured below to learn how you can prepare for a career keeping the skies safe.

Air Marshal Job Description

Federal air marshals observe others on their flight to keep an eye out for signs of terrorist activity. If there’s something suspicious, the federal air marshal must be ready to act and defend the safety of the plane and its passengers. Self-defense and marksmanship are two key components of your job. You need to be able to use a variety of self-defense skills and tactics to take down those who would hurt you or other passengers. You must always maintain your marksmanship skills. Airplanes have very tight quarters, so you need to be able to hit your target every time. Though air marshals are federal government employees, they do not typically identify themselves as law enforcement officials to other passengers on the plane. They must blend in with other passengers and look like they are just typical civilians.

The Transportation Security Administration, which is part of the Department of Homeland Security, employs and oversees federal air marshals. Education, experience, or a combination of the two can be used to qualify for a position with the TSA. While a bachelor’s degree in any field may be enough to qualify you for a federal air marshal position, it’s important to note that this is a fairly competitive field. As a result, you may need a blend of experience and higher-level education to get hired.

How to Become a Federal Air Marshal

Federal air marshals are required to get and maintain Top Security Clearance, the highest security clearance in the country. Because of this requirement, you must have a clear criminal history and be able to pass an extensive background check. You may also be subjected to a rigorous physical exam and in-depth medical exam.

Before applying for a federal air marshal position, it’s important to ensure that you meet TSA’s minimum education requirements. A degree in criminal justice or a related field may is recommended. A master’s degree may help you stand out over other applicants. If you have three years of general work experience, it may take the place of the required education if at least one year involves leadership, problem analysis, and communication skills.

If you make it through the Transportation Security Administration’s hiring process, you must go through their training process. The training program for federal air marshals is completed in two phases. First, you go to the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Artesia, New Mexico. This program lasts for seven weeks. In it, you may enhance your physical fitness, learn how to read and observe behavior in people, learn how to defend yourself, and get a strong background in constitutional law. In the second part of your training, you go to the William J. Hughes Technical Center. This program focuses extensively on marksmanship, since students need near-perfect marksmanship by the time they graduate. When you complete both parts of your training, you can get an assignment and begin your career as a federal air marshal.

Federal Air Marshal Salary and Career Outlook

The Transportation Security Administration has its own pay scale for employees. Federal air marshals are hired at Pay Band D. According to the latest pay scale, in 2023 the beginning salary at this level was $32,357 per year. A promotion to Pay Band E brings a salary of $40,082 per year. A second promotion, to Pay Band F, brings a salary of $49,028 per year. In addition to your base salary, you can earn locality pay. This part of your pay is based on what office you are assigned to and the cost of living in that area. The average locality pay is 23.35%, meaning someone in Pay Band D can earn an additional $7,555, depending on location.

Air marshals are some of the most secretive law enforcement professionals in the country. Air marshals must craft cover stories that relate to why they’re flying, where they’re going, and who they’re visiting. This allows marshals to interact with fellow passengers and look for red flags. For example, in April 2018, an unruly passenger threw coffee at other passengers, requiring a federal air marshal to step in. The woman assaulted the air marshal before he was able to subdue her and bring her to the back of the flight with him. With the risks that come with flying, the role of an air marshal has never been more important.

2022 US Transportation Security Administration salary and employment figures contained here reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed November 2023.

Learn how you can help keep the skies safe from life-threatening behavior. Contact the schools featured in our directory to learn more today!

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Types of Homeland Security Degrees | Compare Schools

Homeland Security Degrees and Careers

Featuring expert Q&A with Joe Ruffini, founder and principle consultant for JPR & Associates LLC

September 11, 2001, changed everything—including sparking the creation of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The DHS combined 22 different agencies under one umbrella with the mission to protect the United States from outside threats. From U.S. Customs and Border Production to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the Secret Service, the departments are varied, and the career options are nearly endless. You can do your part to protect the United States as a homeland security employee.

How to Enter the Homeland Security Field

Those with a degree in homeland security may go on to work as a border patrol officer, police officer, hazardous material removal worker, or even a member of the Secret Service, among dozens of other positions. The department employs more than 230,000 people, with opportunities for veterans and students and recent graduates.

There are literally thousands of jobs available from coast to coast. They range from jobs that require a high school diploma all the way up to jobs that probably require advanced degrees. There’s a lot out there. People just have to look and have to decide what they want to do and what they’re qualified for.

—Joe Ruffini

The first step to earning a position in homeland security is completing training or a degree in your chosen area.

Homeland Security Degree Levels

The number of schools, both online and brick-and-mortar, offering homeland security degrees is rising.

Associate Degree in Homeland Security

An associate degree, which generally takes only two years to complete, can get your foot in the door with homeland security. FEMA compiled a list of known programs throughout the country and online.

Courses may include:

Fundamentals of Emergency Management
Homeland Security Policy and Law
Introduction to Criminal Justice
Terrorism Response Planning
Weapons of Mass Destruction

Bachelor’s Degree in Homeland Security

Bachelor’s degree programs are becoming more widespread, with FEMA publishing a list of recognized programs. Including both online and in-person options, you may be able to find a suitable pathway for your needs.

Courses may include:

Business law
Ethical Hacking
Extremist Groups and Security
Mobile Security
Risk Management

Many of these programs also require an internship or project. Refer to your individual school’s site to find out what this would look like for you.

Master’s Degree in Homeland Security

FEMA also includes a list of master’s level programs, some of which include graduate certificates. Many of these degrees are more focused than the bachelor’s programs, allowing you to develop expertise in cybersecurity, counterterrorism, policy coordination, or another area.

Curricula will vary based on your chosen field, but you can expect to encounter more advanced versions of the bachelor’s courses. Some master’s programs require a capstone project or internship, so check your chosen school’s requirements for information on those.

Doctorate in Homeland Security

There are fewer doctoral programs than those for the other levels, with FEMA only listing six. This does not mean there are only six programs; these are simply the ones that this agency recommends. Many of these programs are not labeled as doctorates IN homeland security, but as doctorates in another field (e.g., public administration) with a focus on homeland security.

Coursework will be highly focused and advanced. Many programs require a project or dissertation to complete your studies; check the information for your chosen program to understand these requirements.

Graduate Certificate in Homeland Security

Certificates in homeland security allow you to show expertise in a particular area. They come in many topics, from the expected, such as Emergency Management Technology or Criminal Justice, to the unexpected and equally important, like Emergency Management with Special Populations. You can earn these certificates at any level, from associate to doctorate, sometimes in conjunction with earning a degree. You will need to complete coursework that focuses on your chosen field, and they can take anywhere from a semester to two years to complete.

Continuing Education

After you have received your degree(s), it’s important that you continue to be educated on homeland security topics.
Ruffini explains, “Education is extremely important and whether you do that formally with additional college courses or advanced degrees, or whether an individual does that on his or her own, the important thing is continuing education is absolutely vital if you’re going to be remain on the cutting edge and remain competitive in this field.”

Homeland Security Degree Online

Online and traditional schools have similar curricula and requirements. Both require students to complete assignments on schedule, learn from textbooks or other materials and their instructors, and take exams. For homeland security, both generally require an internship or capstone project. The main difference between the two approaches lies in their respective degrees of flexibility.

What to Consider When Choosing an Online Program

Academic Majors: Does the school’s homeland security program focus on areas that interest you? If you want to work in cyberterrorism, a program that focuses on disaster relief is not the correct fit.
Accreditation: Always ensure that a school and program you choose are accredited. Unaccredited programs may not have the same educational standards as accredited ones and can lower your chances of employment.
Cost: Be sure you can afford your degree. Speak to the school’s financial aid office to see if there are scholarships or grant opportunities to help you on your way.

While homeland security online degrees may sound like great options, it is essential to make sure this learning format is right for you.

Homeland Security Online Degree Pros

You can generally take classes anywhere and at any time.
They are usually less expensive than traditional college programs.
You can often keep your full-time job while earning your degree.
Online degrees are considered as valid as traditional degrees, but frequently allow more flexibility in time commitments and lengths of programs.

Homeland Security Online Degree Cons

Online study requires self-discipline—you need to manage your own time.
There are fewer opportunities for face-to-face interactions with professors and classmates.
If fieldwork is required, you may have to find your own locations rather than using school resources. This is particularly true if you live in a different state than your program.

Career Outlook and Salary

Once you have chosen your path, including earning any necessary degrees or certifications, you need to start investigating how and where to pursue jobs in homeland security. The department’s careers are divided into four basic categories:

Law Enforcement: These careers include protecting major political figures, including the president and vice president, border security, law enforcement training, and general security.

Immigration and Travel Security: Similar to parts of the Law Enforcement track, this sector protects national transportation and works to ensure the security and lawfulness of immigration.
- Transportation Security Administration
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Prevention and Response: If you want to keep people, locations, and the environment safe from threats and hazards, this area offers those opportunities.
- Federal Emergency Management Agency
- U.S. Coast Guard

Mission Support: These are the “background workers” of the Department of Homeland Security, generally making sure that things are running smoothly. They also investigate potential fraud or civil rights issues, among other duties. While 20 offices fall under this title, a few options include:
- Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman
- National Cybersecurity Center
- Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties
- Office of Health Affairs
- Office of the Chief Financial Officer

All DHS jobs are posted on USAJOBS.

Homeland Security Salaries

While some people may work in technology and combat cyberterrorists, others may work as border patrol officers, and still others may work in accounting or communications. The pay for each of the dozens of career paths is different.

If you would like to dig deep into the benefits, pay, and work/life balance for homeland security employees, the Department of Homeland Security outlines everything you need to know.

For a basic overview, FederalPay.org, which sources and clarifies information from the government’s Office of Personnel Management, provides pay information for those who work at the headquarters for the Department of Homeland Security. As of 2018, they report the average salary of headquarters employees was $119,755.92. Of their 3,261 employees, 441 made $8,967 or less, while three employees made over $215,000. FederalPay.org shows individuals’ salaries.

If you are considering a job at the DHS Headquarters, the top 10 careers in that location are:

Management and Program Analysis
Miscellaneous Administration and Program
Intelligence
Information Technology Management
Contracting
Security Administration
General Attorney
Human Resources Management
Budget Analysis
Accounting

Protective Services Job Growth

Though DHS encompasses dozens of career types, a couple of the more common overarching career types are expected to grow in the next few years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022), the following jobs are only some of the paths expecting growth:

Emergency Management Directors: Median salary of $79,180, 3% growth
Information Security Analyst: Median salary of $112,00, 32% growth (much faster than average)
Management Analysts: Median salary of $95,290, 10% growth

How to Get a Job in Homeland Security

Securing a position in DHS is not unlike the paths towards other careers, except for including a more intensive background check and thorough verification of citizenship if the position requires.

Earn experience in your field, ideally through a degree program.
Visit USAJOBS.com to search for opportunities. This is the only official place to find jobs in homeland security.
Review the descriptions for jobs that interest you, and be sure that you meet all of their requirements.
Apply for jobs, being thorough and honest in your application.
Be prepared to complete a background check, including a check for U.S. Citizenship, and a drug test. They may ask for contact information for others they would like to interview as well.

Homeland Security Resources

These resources can help you to understand your options, the groups involved with DHS, and even look for employment in homeland security.

Meet the Expert

Watch our interview with Joe Ruffini, founder and principle consultant for JPR & Associates LLC in Colorado Springs:

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How to Become an Immigration Officer | Search Schools

How to Become a USCIS Immigration Officer

The U.S. immigration system is based on four principles: reuniting families, protecting refugees, admitting immigrants with valuable skills, and promoting diversity. Immigration officers are an integral part of this system.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the federal agency that immigration officers work for. Most immigration officers must hold a bachelor’s degree at minimum, though previous governmental experience can sometimes be substituted. More advanced roles often require at least one year of graduate studies. After receiving a job offer, new employees must participate in a nine-week USCIS training program held in Charleston, South Carolina.

What Do Immigration Officers Do?

Immigration officers manage the operations and flow of our immigration system.

Many people confuse immigration officers with immigration enforcement agents, border patrol agents, or customs and border officials. All work within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), but different agencies within DHS oversee the various professions.

Paul Bennett, a USCIS trainer, emphasizes one major thing setting the USCIS apart from other immigration agencies: “We’re not law enforcement…we don’t carry weapons and we don’t arrest. Our office is mainly to invite people to tell us what benefit they’re looking for.”

The majority of immigration officers work in office settings, though some positions require travel. They frequently work with other federal, state, and local employees, both within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and elsewhere.

There are three categories of immigration officers:

Immigration Officer, FDNS

Immigration officers assigned to the Office of Fraud Detection and National Security (FDNS) identify immigrants who use false or misleading information when applying for citizenship, visas, or asylum, also known as “illegal immigrants.” These officers often work with other local, state, and federal government agencies to gather evidence before making their cases and taking action. They must possess thorough and up-to-date knowledge of policies and regulations to do their jobs adequately.

Immigration Information Officer

Immigration information officers help immigrants who legally qualify for entrance to or residence in the U.S. These professionals assist immigrants with filling out applications, review applications to ensure all required information is provided, and speak with applicants about their immigration options. These officers may also make determinations about whether the applicant provided any incorrect or misleading information.

Immigration Services Officer

Immigration services officers request needed documentation when processing applications and interviewing visa, asylum, and citizenship candidates to ensure their requests are credible. They also make decisions about whether to deny or grant an immigrant’s petition and liaise with other governmental agencies about their choices. When required, they may appear at court proceedings or work with the media to disseminate findings or new rules set forth by the Department of Homeland Security.

“I have read the files of people that have come before me. I have seen their journey through paper. I have heard their testimonies. And I don’t think an American Citizen, someone born here will ever understand some of the things that people have gone through to get to America.”

—Lisa Jones, Supervisory Immigration Services Officer, USCIS, Detroit

Requirements for Becoming an Immigration Officer

To become an immigration officer, you need to have met education requirements and undergo a training program. Note that UCSIS maintains several special hiring programs for students, recent graduates, former Peace Corps/AmeriCorps volunteers, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Immigration Officer Education Requirements

The education you need depends on the level of the role. For entry-level positions, you will need a bachelor’s degree. You can earn a bachelor’s degree in any field. However, if you want to stand out next to other applicants, consider earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, accounting, a foreign language, or another relevant field. Individuals who already possess relevant experience working for the federal government may be able to bypass this requirement.

For more senior positions, you need at least one year of postgraduate study or a master’s degree. If you have relevant work experience—for example, experience in securing the borders, looking for terrorist activity, or dealing with fraud—you may be able to get a job at this higher level.

USCIS Training Program

Once hired, you will take part in a nine-week orientation at the USCIS training center in Charleston, South Carolina. The program prepares you to work with people of different backgrounds, investigate various threats to the country, and handle immigration issues.

Upon graduating from this training program, you start your probationary period. Most FDNS immigration officers have a one-year probationary period, during which they must prove they can do the job and work efficiently as part of their team.

Immigration Officer Salary and Career Outlook

USCIS follows federal salary guidelines set forth by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Each year they produce new General Schedule (base) and Locality Pay Tables. Salaries are arranged by grade and step. There are 15 grades, which represent the responsibility or intensity level of different jobs. Within each grade, there are 10 steps based on merit and the amount of time spent in the field. The government does not disclose specific wages for immigration officers, as factors such as education, experience, and location impact these figures.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not collect income data for jobs in the federal government. However, GS-5 level employees start at $30,133, with those at the GS-7 level topping out at $48,488.

2020 US Office of Personnel Management salary and employment figures contained here reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed November 2023.

Skills and Characteristics of an Immigration Officer

Immigration officers who excel in their roles often possess a successful blend of skills and traits.

Communication: Immigration officers frequently communicate verbally and in writing with individuals in USCIS, other government officials, and those seeking citizenship, visas, or asylum.
Familiarity with technology: To manage a massive number of applicants at various stages of the immigration process, USCIS uses sophisticated databases and other technology to keep records organized. Understanding how to use these tools can go a long way in being an effective immigration officer.
Second language: Though not usually required, fluency in a second language can help bridge communication gaps between officers and applicants. Knowing a second language can also help candidates stand out from other job seekers.

“You’re connecting people who got separated throughout their lives…it’s a blessing and a privilege to be able to help [these] people.”

—Armin Terzic, former Bosnian refugee and U.S. Immigration Services Officer, USCIS, Lincoln, Nebraska

Alternative/Related Jobs in Immigration

While there are many immigration officer jobs, you may find none of the above the above are the perfect fit for you. If that’s the case, numerous related jobs exist. USCIS provides profiles of current employees to give a better sense of what the work entails.

Asylum Officer: These professionals work specifically with citizens of other countries who are fleeing to America due to persecution and endangerment in their homelands. They interview applicants, research conditions in their country of origin, identify if the applicant has any past criminal behavior, collect other documentation, and make recommendations regarding their asylum statuses.
Refugee Officer: While immigration officers typically work out of one office, refugee officers travel internationally to interview those seeking refugee status. They determine eligibility, oversee security checks, and help with the resettlement process for approved applicants.
Appeals Officer: If an immigration applicant doesn’t agree with a decision about their application, appeals officers handle their case. They review complaints, research previous applicants and decisions made by USCIS staff, and look for consistency in rulings. They then make recommendations as to how the case should be handled.
Customs Border Patrol Officer: Professionals in this role are responsible for patrolling entry points and borders of the United States for illegal immigrants, prohibited items, and other criminal activity. There is a rigorous hiring process, and these officers have a high security clearance.

Resources for Immigration Officers

Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association (FLEOA): Immigration officers are not law enforcement agents but may find this organization useful. FLEOA is the largest professional association supporting those working in federal law enforcement. The group currently has a roster of more than 26,000 federal employees from 65 agencies. Members can take advantage of legal representation, a 24-hour help hotline, affinity service discounts, scholarships, legislative advocacy, and access to local chapters.
A Day in the Life of USCIS: This is a great read if you want to learn more about the details of work within USCIS. The article highlights the different tasks performed by the agency to keep immigration services moving smoothly.
American Immigration Council: How the United States Immigration System Works: Learn all about our immigration system, including admissions numbers and the process for immigrating.
Center for Immigration Studies: Historical Overview of Immigration Policy: Learn about immigration policy starting in the 1800s and how U.S. policy has changed over the years.
Migration Policy Institute, U.S. Immigration Policy Program: You can find a host of articles about immigration, including statistics and discussions of current policy.

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Transportation Security Officer Degrees and Careers

Transportation Security Officer

If you’ve ever flown with an American airline, you have likely come across a Transportation Security Officer. TSOs work for the Transportation Security Administration, an agency that’s part of the federal government. TSOs tend to be based at one major airport, although you may need to fill in at different airports as needed.

Contact the schools in our directory to learn how quickly you can start your career as a transportation security officer!

Transportation Security Officer Job Description

Airport security is a very high priority for the federal government, so there’s a great need for skilled Transportation Security Officers. As an officer, you may help screen passengers, do physical screens of passengers, and perform security screens on luggage. This position tends to involve lots of interaction with people from different age groups, countries, and backgrounds. In addition, you must spend lots of time on your feet as a TSO.

When you compare this job to other criminal justice careers, it has far fewer requirements than the majority of jobs. If you are looking for an entry-level career in the Transportation Security Administration, this may be a great place to start. The hiring process can be long, as selected applicants must take a variety of tests and assessments. These assessments test your knowledge of the English language, your vision, and other skills that are critical to your job performance.

How to Become a Transportation Security Officer

The Transportation Security Administration tests its applicants on a range of skills to determine whether or not they are appropriate for a TSO position. They note that TSOs must have at least a high school diploma or GED. However, you can use work experience to qualify for this position as well. If you have one year or more of full-time work experience as an x-ray technician, you may be considered qualified for a Transportation Security Officer job.

Once the Transportation Security Administration has established that you meet their minimum requirements, they can put you through a list of tests to determine your eligibility. You take a Computer Based Test that measures your command of the English language. In addition, the test will look at your ability to interpret x-rays of people and packages. You must also pass a medical evaluation, a color vision test, an interview that tests your decision making skills, and a drug screen. The Transportation Security Administration will compile all of your qualifications and test results to label you as Best Qualified, Highly Qualified, or Qualified. From there, they make their hiring decisions and assign people to airports across the country.

According to the TSA blog, training is a significant part of any Transportation Security Officer’s job. Upon getting hired, you must complete a training program that is over 120 hours long. This training includes classroom education and practical, on-the-job training. You may be tested on this information before you are allowed to officially begin your career. Depending on your assignment, you may have to complete more training; officers that screen passengers and baggage must complete further on-the-job training. On an annual basis, you may have to go through a certification process that rigorously tests your knowledge, ability to interpret x-rays, and ability to work with the public.

Transportation Security Officer Salary and Career Outlook

The job outlook for Transportation Security Officers is fairly positive. Job growth for TSOs is expected to remain steady through 2032, which is a little slower than the average job growth for all professions in the U.S.

If you want the best job outlook possible, you may need to be willing to relocate. When the Transportation Security Administration posts positions, they are typically looking for people to work at specific airports throughout the country. If you’re open to working at any airport that is hiring, then you may be able to find available jobs more quickly than those who want to stay in a specific geographic area.

Your salary is dependent on which pay band you get hired at and how qualified you are for the job. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, TSOs earned an average wage of $48,520 in 2022.

Focus and concentration are two incredibly important skills to have in this job. Airports are notoriously noisy, and you must be able to focus on what you’re doing in the midst of noise and large crowds.

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US Postal Service Inspector | Education & Career Insights

US Postal Service Inspector

Few federal services are as trusted as the US Postal Service. Millions of pieces of mail are delivered every day. Unfortunately, an organization of this size attracts those who want to use it for fraud, terrorist crimes, or illegal transportation. US Postal Service Inspectors are responsible for supporting the US Postal Service by protecting it from fraud and enforcing laws in the mail system.

To learn more about becoming a US Postal Service Inspector, or other careers in criminal justice, use our directory of programs to request more information today!

US Postal Service Inspector Job Description

US Postal Service Inspectors oversee and investigate many cases of alleged fraud or criminal activity. As an inspector, you may respond to claims of mail theft, identity theft, mail containing illegal items, and people using the mail service to scam consumers. You may respond to different crimes from day to day, depending on the needs of your US Postal Office and what types of crimes are most prevalent in your area. In addition, if crimes go through multiple states, you may have to travel.

As a postal inspector, you are a sworn federal law enforcement officer. This requires you to be comfortable arresting suspects, serving search warrants and conducting searches of private homes and businesses, and working closely with other law enforcement agencies. You may work with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement and US Customs and Border Protection.

One of a postal service inspectors main responsibilities is protecting the mail carriers that serve their specified area. This may involve responding to possible threats reported by mail carriers and investigating cases of suspected mail terrorism. The investigative part of the job may take up the majority of the time and an inspector may investigate strange substances in mail, like anthrax and other dangerous chemicals.

No matter where you work for the US Postal Inspection Service, your job can be a very important part of mail security. As a postal law enforcement worker, you can ensure that one of the nation’s most important institutions runs smoothly and safely.

How to Become a US Postal Service Inspector

There are several ways to qualify for an inspector job with the US Postal Office. In general, you must have the appropriate education. Furthermore, there are several paths that you can follow to be considered highly qualified for an inspector job. These knowledge tracks include language skills, experience in the United States Postal Service, specialized job experience, and superior academic achievement. The eligibility requirements for an inspector position are clearly outlined by the US Postal Inspection Service.

Education Requirements

At minimum, you must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. This degree can be in any field or specialty. Furthermore, you must have excellent eyesight, great physical fitness, and mental stability. If you are selected for a position, you may have to go through tests to demonstrate your competency in these areas.

Required Skills

Meeting the service’s minimum requirements for inspectors may not be enough to get you hired. Without special knowledge or qualifications, you may only be considered minimally qualified for the job. You can qualify for this job via language skills. This involved having advanced competency in a foreign language. Accepted foreign languages include Arabic, French, Spanish, Mandarin, and Russian.

You can also have special knowledge if you have previous postal experience. You must have experience with the US Postal Service as a contractor, intern, or employee. To be considered relevant, this experience must be in the two years prior to your job application. If you have non-postal work experience or relevant education, you may have specialized skills. Having two years of military experience, a law degree, certifications in auditing or investigations, or highly-specialized computer experience can serve you well as a US Postal Service Inspector. Finally, academic achievement can give you a step up over other applicants. Academic achievement requires you to have a GPA of 3.0 or higher for a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree in any field also counts as academic achievement.

After getting selected for a job, you must go through a comprehensive training program. The Career Development Unit offers a training program that delves into four areas: firearms, physical fitness, academic, and practical experiences that are relevant to the job. Completing this training permits you to receive an assignment and begin your career.

US Postal Service Inspector Salary and Career Outlook

The job outlook is generally fairly stable for those who are qualified for a U.S. Postal Service Inspector position. However, it’s important to be flexible. As current inspectors retire, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service may have openings across the country. If you are willing to relocate wherever you are needed, you may have a better job outlook than someone that wants to stay in one specific area. Furthermore, having special knowledge that makes you highly qualified for the job can improve your job outlook. If you know that you want to pursue this career, you can tailor your experience and education to meet the requirements.

Postal inspectors start off fairly high on the pay scale for federal law enforcement employees. Salaries for postal inspectors fall under the general services pay scale for federal employees. According to the postal inspector’s website, most postal inspectors enter the field at grade 10, step 1. In 2020, that was a base pay of $48,297.

Don’t wait to learn more about working in the field of criminal justice. Contact the schools below to compare their programs!

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