Federal
Lead Law Enforcement Specialist (Firearms Instructor)
Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers · Department of Homeland Security
About This Position
"The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC), through strategic partnerships, prepares the federal law enforcement community to safeguard America's people, property, and institutions." We are a unique inter-agency organization preparing the next generation of law enforcement officers to meet our Nation's most pressing security challenges." Click here to learn more. A relocation incentive may be authorized. See additional info section.
Qualifications
A resume must be no more than two pages. If an applicant's resume exceeds two pages, the USAJOBS database will not allow the application to be submitted. For additional assistance, please visit: USAJOBS Help Center - Update your resume now so it meets new resume requirements This position has a Selective Placement Factor (SPF). If your resume doesn't demonstrate possession of the SPF, you will be rated ineligible. The SPF for this position is: SELECTIVE PLACEMENT FACTOR: In order to be considered for this position you must: A. Possess experience as a sworn law enforcement officer or agent with full arrest authority in the prevention, detection, apprehension, detention and/or investigation of felony and/or misdemeanor violations of federal, state, local, tribal, or military criminal laws; -OR- B. Have held a federal civilian position in the 1801 occupational series. -AND- Specialized Experience: You qualify for the GS-13 grade level if you possess one year of specialized experience, equivalent to the GS-12 grade level or pay band in the federal service, or equivalent experience in the private or public sector performing the following duties: (1) Leading as a technical authority in law enforcement firearms training. (2) Articulating program objectives, coordinating logistical activities for training events, and representing the team in meetings with agency officials and partner organizations. (3) Researching and integrating emerging firearms technology, practices, and techniques into training programs. Substitution of education in lieu of specialized experience may not be used for this grade level. All qualifications and eligibility requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement. Time-in-grade: Current General Schedule (GS) federal employees, and those that have served in GS positions within the last 52 weeks, must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade, or a combination of the next lower grade level and an equivalent band in the federal service by the closing of this announcement. Note: Current or former Federal employees MUST submit a copy of their SF-50 Form which shows competitive service appointment ("position occupied" block 34 on the SF-50 should show a "1"), tenure group (block 24 should show a 1 or 2), grade, and salary. If you are applying for a higher grade, please provide the SF-50 Form which shows the length of time you have been in your current/highest grade (examples of appropriate SF-50s include promotions, With-in Grade/Range Increases, and SF-50s dated a year apart within the same grade/job). If you have promotion potential in your current position, please provide proof. Employees applying with an interchange agreement must provide proof of their permanent appointment. IF YOU DO NOT SUBMIT ALL OF THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE CONSIDERATION AS A STATUS CANDIDATE. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Current or Former Political Appointees: The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office. Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) Eligibles: If you have never worked for the Department of Homeland Security, you are not CTAP eligible. View information about CTAP eligibility on OPM's Career Transition Resources website. To be considered well qualified under CTAP, you must be rated at a minimum score of 85 for this position. In addition, you must submit the supporting documents listed under the required documents section of this announcement. Note: Secondary Administrative Law Enforcement Officer retirement coverage is being offered for this position. Transfer Requirement for CSRS: To be eligible for secondary coverage, an employee must: - Transfer without a break in service exceeding 3 days directly from a primary position to a secondary position; AND - Be continuously employed in a secondary position since moving from a primary position; except a break in employment in secondary positions that begins with an involuntary separation (not for cause) and/or voluntary breaks in service that began prior to January 20, 1988. Transfer Requirement for FERS: To be eligible for secondary coverage, an employee must: - Transfer without a break in service exceeding 3 days directly from a primary position to a secondary position; AND - Have completed 3 years of service in a primary position, including any such service during which no FERS deductions were withheld; AND - Be continuously employed in a secondary position since moving from a rigorous position; except a break in employment in secondary positions that begins with an involuntary separation (not for cause). Re-employed annuitants' annual salaries will be reduced by the amount of their retirement annuity and by further cost of living increases. FERS retirees receiving a FERS annuity supplement must also be aware that, like social security benefits, their FERS annuity supplement is subject to an earnings test and may be reduced if the salary earned is more than the social security exempt amount of earnings. Additional information is available on OPM's web
Major Duties
Serving as a Lead Law Enforcement Specialist (Firearms Instructor) GS-1801-13 makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) team and mission. This position is located in the Cheltenham Advanced Weapons Branch (CAW), Office of Cheltenham Operations (OCH), NCR Training Operations Directorate (NCR), Office of the Associate Director for Training (TOPS) located in, Cheltenham, Maryland. The primary purpose of this position is to serve in a lead capacity over a team of Firearms Instructors involved in planning and conducting classroom, laboratory, and/or field instruction sessions as part of the firearms training program. Typical duties include: Serving as a lead instructor, subject-matter expert, and course developer for specialized firearms training programs, ensuring instruction in the safe handling, proficient application, and legally justified use of firearms. Planning, coordinating, and delivering classroom, laboratory, and field training, including designing lesson plans, courses of fire, and exercises that align with agency standards, policies, and use-of-force requirements. Leading the development, review, and revision of firearms curricula, training materials, and performance objectives; conducting research on emerging firearms technology, tactics, and best practices to keep training current and relevant. Monitoring student performance during training, documenting results, providing remedial and corrective instruction when needed, and adjusting instructional methods to meet individual and group learning needs. Serving as a technical authority and liaison with partner organizations to identify training needs; participating in curriculum conferences; and developing or coordinating training plans, agreements, and program documentation. Ensuring strict compliance with all firearms safety standards, range rules, and handling procedures; exercising on-site authority to safeguard personnel, weapons, and ammunition during all training activities. View common definitions of terms found in this announcement: Common Definitions.
Education
Not Applicable
How You Will Be Evaluated
A resume must be no more than two pages. If an applicant's resume exceeds two pages, the USAJOBS database will not allow the application to be submitted. We will review your resume and supporting documentation to ensure you meet the minimum qualification requirements. If met, we will use multiple assessments to determine the degree to which your experience, education, and training demonstrate the following competencies needed to perform this job: To be considered for this position, you must complete all required steps in the process, including the application, Structured Resume Review and Firearms Qualification. Structured Resume Review: Subject matter experts (SMEs) will review your resume to determine your technical qualifications for this position based on the required specialized experience. SMEs will review ONLY two (2) pages of your resume, starting at your work experience. SMEs will not review additional information beyond your resume (e.g., links embedded in your resume will not be opened). Applicants passing the resume review will move on to the next phase of the assessment process. Firearms Qualification: You must pass an initial firearms proficiency test with an 85% score, which equates to 255 points out of a possible 300 points. This test is the standard 60-round course of fire in the Firearms Instructor Training Program (FITP). You will be expected to visit a FLETC location to demonstrate the required job-related skills. Travel, lodging, and meals will be at the applicant's expense. Preview the job questionnaire https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12875225 If, after reviewing your resume and/or supporting documentation, a determination is made that you have overstated your qualifications and/or experience, you may be removed from consideration or your score may be lowered. Due weight will be given to performance appraisals and incentive awards in merit promotion selection decisions in accordance with 5 CFR 335.103(b)(3).
Additional Information
A relocation Incentive may be authorized up to 15% of pay. Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is not authorized. The Department of Homeland Security encourages persons with disabilities to apply, to include persons with intellectual, severe physical or psychiatric disabilities, as defined by 5 CFR 213.3102(u), and or Disabled Veterans with a compensable service-connected disability of 30 percent or more as defined by 5 CFR 315.707. Veterans, Peace Corps, VISTA volunteers, and persons with disabilities possess a wealth of unique talents, experiences, and competencies that can be invaluable to the DHS mission. If you are a member of one of these groups, you may not have to compete with the public for federal jobs. To determine your eligibility for non-competitive appointment and to understand the required documentation, click on the links above or contact the servicing Human Resources Office listed at the bottom of this announcement. Pursuant to Executive Order 12564 and FLETC policy, FLETC is committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace and, therefore, conducts random and other drug testing of its employees in order to ensure a safe and healthy work environment. Headquarters personnel in safety- or security-sensitive positions are subject to random drug testing and all applicants tentatively selected for employment at FLETC are subject to drug testing resulting in a negative test result. Background Investigation: To ensure the accomplishment of our mission, FLETC requires every employee to be reliable and trustworthy. To meet those standards, all selected applicants must undergo and successfully pass a background investigation for suitability as a condition of placement in this non-sensitive, moderate risk position. This review may include financial issues such as delinquency in the payment of debts, child support and/or tax obligations, as well as certain criminal offenses and illegal use or possession of drugs. Physical Demands: This work requires walking, standing, bending, sitting, lying down, or kneeling/crouching in positions that may be tiring or uncomfortable. There is the need to carry firearms, equipment, and packages or containers such as ammunition. Travel to field locations to coordinate training activities may be involved. Work also involves considerable physical exertion while demonstrating firearms using a variety of law enforcement techniques/methods. Work Environment: The normal workplace is a classroom or office, and inside/outside physical exercise areas and firing ranges. The position requires exposure to varying climate and environmental conditions including both cold and warm weather conditions and/or exposure to high levels of noise and dangerous substances. Appropriate safety practices will be utilized at all times. Safety equipment such as hearing, and eye protection will be used when needed. The Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act prohibits the Department of Homeland Security and its Components from requesting an applicant's criminal history record before that individual receives a conditional offer of employment. In accordance with 5 U.S. Code § 9202(c) and 5 C.F.R § 920.201 certain positions are exempt from the provisions of the Fair Chance to Compete Act. Applicants who believe they have been subjected to a violation of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act, may submit a written complaint to [email protected].
How to Apply
Only resumes up to a total of two pages will be accepted. Applicants with resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. To begin your online application, click "Apply Online" to create a USAJOBS account and follow the prompts or log in to your existing account. Your application packet must include a completed assessment questionnaire, a resume, and any applicable and/or required supporting documentation. Please see the "Required Documents" section for additional information. All application materials, including transcripts, must be in English. We strongly encourage you to apply online. If you cannot apply online, you may contact the individual listed in the "Agency Contact Information" section of this job opportunity announcement between the hours of 7:30AM and 4:30PM ET (excluding Federal holidays) prior to the closing date of this announcement to receive assistance. When e-mailing, please include the vacancy announcement number in the subject line. Applications and supporting documentation will not be accepted by mail or email. The address below is for inquiries only. You must submit your resume, your online questionnaire, and any supporting documents by 11:59 PM eastern standard time on the day the announcement closes. It is your responsibility to verify that any information entered or uploaded is received and is accurate. Human Resources will not modify or change any part of your application. Determining your eligibility and qualifications is dependent on the supporting documentation and information provided, which may impact your referral for further consideration. If a document is not legible, you will not be able to view it in your application. To verify your application is complete, log into your USAJOBS account, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USAJOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USAJOBS account or your application will be incomplete. Applicants must submit all required documentation to properly qualify for this position.
Required Documents
Your resume (click the link for information on what to include). If you are a current or former Federal employee, your resume must indicate the GS or pay band level for each position held. Limit your resume to no more than two pages. The USAJOBS database will not allow an applicant to submit an application that includes a resume over two pages. Your responses to the job questionnaire https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12875225 Are you a current FLETC employee? Submit a copy of your most recent SF-50 showing your current grade and tenure; An SF-50 showing highest (permanent) grade ever held, if different from your current grade. Please note: Performance award, Details, and Realignments are not acceptable SF-50s. If you are applying for a higher grade, please provide an SF-50 or SF-50s which show the length of time in the current/highest grade (examples of appropriate SF50s include promotions, With-in Grade/Range Increases, and SF-50s dated one year apart within the same grade/job) to support meeting time-in-grade requirements. Are you claiming special priority selection rights under the Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP)? Submit the following: A copy of your agency notice, A copy of your most recent performance rating, and A copy of your most recent SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, noting your current position, grade level, and duty location. If you are referred, you may be asked to provide a copy of your recent performance appraisal and/or incentive awards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for the Lead Law Enforcement Specialist (Firearms Instructor) position at Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers?
The salary range for this position is $121,785 - $158,322/yr. This is a GS-13 position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Lead Law Enforcement Specialist (Firearms Instructor) job located?
This position is located in Cheltenham, Maryland. This is an on-site position.
What qualifications do I need?
A resume must be no more than two pages. If an applicant's resume exceeds two pages, the USAJOBS database will not allow the application to be submitted. For additional assistance, please visit: USAJOBS Help Center - Update your resume now so it meets new resume requirements This position has a Selective Placement Factor (SPF). If your resume do...
How do I apply for this position?
Apply through USAJobs.gov by clicking the 'Apply on USAJobs' button. You'll need a USAJobs account, a federal-style resume, and supporting documents. The deadline is Feb 20, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
No security clearance is required for this position.
What does GS-13 mean?
GS-13 refers to the General Schedule grade level. Higher grades require more experience and offer higher pay. Visit our GS Pay Scale page for full salary tables by grade and locality.
What benefits do federal employees receive?
Federal employees receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (FEHB), retirement through FERS, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, paid annual and sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and student loan repayment programs.