U.S. Marshal

Job Description

U.S. Marshals serve an important role in federal law enforcement, judicial security and security investigations. As the country’s oldest federal law enforcement agency, the U.S. Marshals Service has continued to direct the activities of 94 districts, placing one presidentially-appointed Marshal in each federal judicial district. While much of their job involves behind-the-scenes work, U.S. Marshals are key components to the federal justice system. According to the agency’s official Web site, U.S. Marshals are in charge of apprehending federal fugitives, protecting the federal judiciary, transporting federal prisoners and seizing criminals’ stolen goods and property. They also organize the Witness Security Program, by protecting the lives of witnesses who testify in government cases concerning organized crime and other major criminal activities. U.S. Marshals are in charge of relocating and giving new identities to witnesses and their families. U.S. Marshals also participate in fugitive investigations and conduct arrests of fugitives with felony warrants.

Educational Requirements

Prospective U.S. Marshals must meet certain educational requirements before they can enter the agency. U.S. Marshals need to first have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as a bachelor’s degree or three years of qualifying experience, or a combination of education and experience. There is not a specific academic track or area of study that the U.S. Marshals Service requires, but students with a background in criminal justice may have more knowledge of the agency and its procedures. A major part of U.S. Marshals’ eligibility requirements is successfully graduating from the training academy. The agency’s basic training academy will teach prospective Marshals about firearms, defensive tactics, physical conditioning, first aid, prisoner search and restraint, surveillance and other vital lessons in law enforcement. In addition, all Marshals have to be U.S. citizens, be between the ages of 21 and 37, have a valid driver’s license and a good driving record, as well as complete a background investigation and meet designated fitness and medical standards.

Career Outlook and Salary

The career outlook for U.S. Marshals should continue to be favorable, as workers provide important services to the federal justice system. However, eager applicants must wait for the U.S. Marshals Service to conduct their recruiting process. According to the Marshals Service’s Web site, there is no telling when the agency will begin the next recruiting process. Their hiring cycle can be prompted by U.S. Marshals’ retirement, individuals leaving the agency, as well as funding. Applicants are encouraged to visit the agency’s Web site for hiring information, as well as check with their local recruiting officer for further information. As for salary outlooks, U.S. Marshals can earn between $36,658 and $41,260 for GL-5 level work, or between $41,729 and $46,969 at the GL-7 level, according to the site’s 2008 wage scale. Salaries can vary depending on applicant’s education level, experience and location. For specific earning potential, based on location, check out the U.S. Marshals Service’s locality pay tables.