Federal Protective Services

The Federal Protective Service (FPS) is responsible for securing over 8,000 government buildings. It’s a division of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency. Both agencies work under the direction of the Department of Homeland Security. The FPS responds to emergencies, is responsible for HAZMAT removal, and completes periodic training to prepare for weapons of mass destruction attacks. FPS previously worked under the direction of the General Services Administration (GSA), but since it now operates under the direction of the Department of Homeland Security, the FPS typically only collaborates with the GSA when children are reported missing in government buildings.

The employment requirements to work for the FPS are similar to other federal agencies. You must have proof of American citizenship, be at least 21, hold a valid driver’s license, successfully complete a fitness test, and qualify to carry and use a firearm to become a FPS agent. FPS agent training is completed at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Artesia, NM.

FPS agents perform the following duties:

Primary Protective Services

Organize and carry out facility security evaluations
Maintain uniformed police presence
Develop security procedures for tenant agencies
Hire armed security guards to patrol buildings during non-work hours
Monitor buildings with sophisticated video and communication technology
Conduct background checks on contracted security guards

Additional Protective Services

Participate in criminal investigations
Provide security at special events
Relay intelligence to municipal, state, and federal government agencies
Assist FEMA during natural disasters
Train federal employees responsible for occupant emergency preparation
Perform special operations, which includes the use of drug and explosives sniffing dogs

If you satisfy these qualifications, you can apply to the FPS, but intense competition exists for agent positions. Enhance your opportunities by obtaining a bachelors or master’s degree.

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