Since its formation after 9/11, the Department of Homeland Security has contributed to the safety and protection of American citizens from internal and external threats. Employing over 240,000 individuals, this department provides lucrative employment opportunities to individuals. It’s estimated that a special DHS employee makes over $120,000 a year; that’s 81% above the national average income. Even an ordinary employee working from Homeland Security can earn more than $70,000 annually. Moreover, these jobs help you advance in your career and apply for better positions within the security industry. So, what are some seductive employment options in this department with handsome paychecks? Let’s find out!
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DHS-Related Careers With Lucrative Paychecks You Should Pursue
It shouldn’t surprise you that DHS-related jobs require mental/physical diligence as they involve mind-bending investigative endeavors. Individuals associated with homeland security are, however, deemed as crucial members of society. Traditionally, students finish HSEP programs in almost four years, after which they become academically eligible for relevant careers. But the distance learning options we have available today enable youngsters to complete their studies in 1.5-2 years with a flexible digital format. You can finish a Master’s in Emergency Management and Homeland Security to protect the USA from domestic and global threats with minimum hassle. This degree facilitates your transition into any of the following fields:
1. Border Patrol Agent
Patroling our nation’s borders, these agents make 40-60 thousand USD every year. That’s how they safeguard American citizens from terrorists attempting to infiltrate the USA through its borders. An agent also prevents drug smugglers and undocumented foreigners from reaching American soil. This career enables you to enter relevant positions. Though patrolling the country’s borders isn’t an easy task, people who prefer working outside will enjoy it. The scope of this field isn’t restricted either.
2. Counterterrorism Analyst
These experts find employment opportunities within the CIA, other federal agencies, and even some private organizations. So, what are the responsibilities of these analysts? As the name indicates, they evaluate the intentions of terrorists and unmask their sponsors/facilitators. Making almost $90,000 a year, counterterrorism analysts spend their career interrupting terror networks and learning about their next targets. This job requires them to remain vigilant and enhance their soft skills as well.
3. FBI Intelligence Analyst
These professionals mitigate threats before they even happen to ensure the continued protection of American citizens. These agents must have excellent soft skills to communicate with other agencies and collaborate with relevant DHS subdivisions. You should improve your analytical capabilities for entering this field. Even though an FBI analyst’s average income lies above $70,000 a year, you can hope to make more by earning promotions to six-figure-salary management/leadership positions.
4. Cybersecurity Specialist
Since the coronavirus, cybercrimes have increased in the United States. Statistics show that 2,200+ cyberattacks happen daily, which averages out to one every 39 seconds. In order to mention peace and families can peacefully spend family time that’s why we can observe DHS recruiting individuals well-versed in dealing with digital crimes and preventing our systems from being infiltrated by terrorists. Making 70-90 thousand USD, these professionals ensure that vulnerabilities in our networks are discovered before cybercriminals enter through them.
5. ICE Agent
You can also join ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) to prevent aliens from entering the country illegally. Besides undocumented immigrants, you’ll also be responsible for stopping goods from being unlawfully transported to American soil. So, ICE agents often collaborate with others, e.g., TSA and FPS agents. They also examine the credentials of foreigners entering the USA while making sure that illegal visitors are safely deported. They make over $80,000 every year on average at this job.
6. Disaster Recovery Specialist
Several state and federal authorities employ the services of these specialists, including FEMA, where they deal with natural disasters and manmade emergencies professionally. Earning over $80,000 annually, disaster recovery specialists are responsible for preemptive preparations to handle rainfalls, hurricanes, and terror attacks. Moreover, they react properly to these disasters by establishing recovery strategies, evaluating damages, and training subordinates. That’s how they reduce post-disaster destructions.
7. Federal Air Marshal
Airports have remained one of the deadliest targets of terrorist organizations. Therefore, TSA hires agents to protect the aviation industry from internal and external threats. This career requires vigilance as you travel on flights unnoticed for keeping a watchful eye over potential criminals. The number of air marshals on flights stays classified, but experts estimate that 5% of flights have air marshals on board. Risking their lives for people’s safety, these individuals make over $90,000 every year now.
8. Secret Service Agent
Finally, let’s discuss a career that’s been seducing students since the appearance of the James Bond character. You shall be responsible for protecting not just commoners but also political leaders and well-known celebrities. These agents earn between 100 and 150 thousand USD every year and are selected after a careful background investigation. You can expect to get promoted by gaining experience and showing passion for further responsibilities. The job also comes with many perks, including paid holidays, retirement benefits, and affordable life insurance.
Conclusion
Statistics have revealed that over 50% of recent graduates are unemployed. Unsurprisingly, students can take roughly six months to find jobs after finishing their degrees. However, homeland security welcomes these youngsters for unique employment opportunities that offer higher incomes and respectful chores. You shall protect your country from invading terrorists while fighting crimes within society. But it takes from six months to two years before someone lands a career in DHS! Once hired, though, you can turn into a park ranger, an EM specialist, or a border patrol agent. Many departments, including the FBI, TSA, and NSA, provide DHS-related positions that allow students to contribute to the safety of our nation.
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