Best way to prepare for job in federal law enforcement after military service?

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 08:57:44 -0500

I just hit 3 years of service and am a few credits short of my AA degree in Counter-Terrorism Studies. When I get home from deployment next year, I would like to already have a head start on procuring a job in federal law enforcement. Is there any advice that anyone could share with me of what what I can do right now, to get a leg up on other applicants? Any and all advice is greatly appreciated!

Response by Capt Richard I P. made Jan 21 at 2015 9:26 AM

Capt Richard I P. — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 09:26:30 -0500

SSG Private RallyPoint Member I would recommend using RP's advanced search option and looking for RP members in Federal Law Enforcement, request to add them under the "mentor ship and advice" option with a brief explanation and see what they can offer.

Response by Cpl Tim Iverson made Jan 21 at 2015 5:13 PM

Cpl Tim Iverson — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 17:13:35 -0500

The biggest thing I've discovered is that most people won't appreciate the military mindset in the civilian world. You are going to have to "dial it back" when working around non-military.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 21 at 2015 6:22 PM

Cpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 21 Jan 2015 18:22:05 -0500

Be prepared for a long application cycle. Work on your grammar and sentence structure. Practice your interview and story telling techniques. Maintain all of your service records and start building your list of: residences, jobs, family, friends, accounts, pets, etc. Obtain a good suit.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 30 at 2016 12:13 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 30 Mar 2016 12:13:18 -0400

If you have the time available while on deployment, continue your studies and complete your four year degree. Most Federal LE agencies require a degree. As for preparing for a Federal LE job, the biggest question to ask yourself is which agency do you want work. There are many. The larger ones, FBI/HSI/DEA are looking for specific skills or the ability to acquire those skills. Smaller agencies may not be as busy and as some of my friends complain, downright boring. Do your research.