Career Spotlight: Homeland Security Professionals

An Introduction

Pursuing a career in the Department of Homeland Security is a challenging and rewarding experience. Each sub-department within the Department of Homeland Security provides our nation with secure borders, waterways, airports, and seaports by using the newest security technology, analyzing intelligence reports, and responding quickly to national emergencies. From working in immigration to becoming a flight safety officer, there are a variety of job opportunities within homeland security for any individual with any educational background.

Other career possibilities include probation officer, police officer, detective, airport security guard, game warden, security officer, secret service agent and coast guard member.

Learning the Trade

While separate careers in the Department of Homeland Security can require different educational backgrounds, earning a career diploma in homeland security can add to any individual's prior education. In fact, most jobs within this field require only an associate's degree. In this manner, there is sure to be a job for anyone in homeland security.

By working toward this degree, students will take courses in areas such as emergency services management, communication, terrorism psychology, and homeland security management. This will teach students how to think analytically, investigate issues, solve problems, and assess situations. Students will also develop the computer, planning and research skills needed to contribute to an office in the Department of Homeland Security.

Additionally, individuals entering this field must possess a certain degree of physical fitness, knowledge of public laws and regulations, and an understanding of procedures unique to their chosen department.

Calculating the Income

The average salary for homeland security professionals is increasing. According to an ASIS U.S. Security Salary Survey, wages increased by 4.9 percent in 2003 and 6 percent in 2004. The survey also found that "security professionals in the U.S. earn a median annual income of $79,000."

The Benefits Package

A wide range of benefits are attached to a position in homeland security. From life insurance to tuition reimbursement, the Department of Homeland Security provides for its employees. Below is a more comprehensive list of benefits adapted from the Department of Homeland Security Web site:

Health insurance
Vacation, illness and family care leaves
Ten paid holidays per year
Paid training
Thrift Savings Plan, similar to a 401(k)
Flexible Spending Accounts for medical or dependent care costs
Transportation subsidies
Retirement plan
Flexible work schedules
Employee recognition program
Life and long-term care insurance
Employee assistance programs
Tuition reimbursement
Uniform allowance
Access to fitness centers
Health and wellness programs

Employment Opportunities & Trends

Over the next few years, employment in the Department of Homeland Security is expected to increase about as fast as the average. Some positions will remain competitive, but others are experiencing a shortage of applicants, making job prospects very good. A degree in homeland security or a bachelor's in a related field should make employment fairly simple.

Career Advancement Opportunities

Many security professionals were first members of the military or stationed in entry-level government positions. The tuition reimbursement opportunities provided by the Department of Homeland Security allow employees to go back to school, receive further education and move up the ladder. New careers in this field open up every day as the needs for national security change. The opportunities are endless for qualified professionals.

Sources:

Career Explorer. (2007). Job descriptions: Homeland security specialist. Retrieved January 9, 2008, from http://www.careerexplorer.net/jobchoices/homeland.asp

DiplomaGuide.com. (2008). Homeland security: Career diploma programs. Retrieved January 9, 2008, from http://diplomaguide.com/articles/Homeland_Security:_Career_Diploma_Programs.html

EducationPortal.com. (2007). Public safety professional: Career profile. Retrieved January 9, 2008, from http://education-portal.com/articles/Public_Safety_Professional:_Career_Profile.html

U.S. Department of Homeland Security. (2007, September 28). Employee benefits. Retrieved January 9, 2008, from http://www.dhs.gov/xabout/careers/content_multi_image_0016.shtm