Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms)
Not Disclosed•Full-TimeOn-site
location_onUnalaska, Unorganized Borough, United States
About the Role
Master-at-Arms (MA) Sailors form the backbone of the Navy's security, antiterrorism, and law enforcement capabilities. Whether protecting people and installations at home or safeguarding strategic assets abroad, MAs operate in a fast-paced, armed environment where attention to detail and professional judgment are critical. The role involves a unique blend of policing, force protection, and security operations across diverse settings, including bases, piers, aircraft carriers, and expeditionary units.
Day in the Life
You will work in a safety-critical environment that demands 24/7 coverage, often involving rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays. Your day might involve conducting antiterrorism patrols, standing sentry at access control posts, or inspecting vehicles and personnel for contraband. You may respond to emergencies, investigate incidents, or manage crowd control during special events. The work is physically demanding and requires constant qualification in weapons handling, use of force, and tactical skills. As you progress, you will take on increasing responsibility, potentially supervising junior personnel or specializing in areas like military working dogs, harbor security, or criminal investigations.
Career Pathways & Training
Your journey begins with Recruit Training followed by Master-at-Arms Class "A" School at Lackland AFB, where you will master the fundamentals of law enforcement, weapons handling, and security operations. From there, you will report to an operational security force billet at an installation, ship, or expeditionary unit. The Navy offers robust opportunities for advancement through on-the-job qualification, advanced schools, and leadership courses. You can specialize as a Military Working Dog Handler, Harbor Security Coxswain, Corrections Specialist, or Criminal Investigator, while also pursuing warfare qualifications like ESWS or EAWS.
Equal Opportunity
The U.S. Navy is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive force that reflects the nation it serves.
Work location
Work model: On-site
Unalaska, Unorganized Borough, United States
Unalaska
Key Responsibilities
- check_circleConduct antiterrorism and force protection patrols on installations and piers
- check_circleStand sentry and access control posts to control entry to secure areas
- check_circlePerform vehicle, personnel, and baggage inspections to detect weapons and contraband
- check_circleEnforce traffic and parking regulations and investigate incidents and accidents
- check_circleProvide law enforcement presence and crowd control during special events and emergencies
- check_circleOperate and maintain small arms, crew-served weapons, and security vehicles or boats
- check_circleSupport harbor and waterside security, high-value unit escorts, and expeditionary missions
- check_circleSupervise and train junior security force personnel in watchstanding and security procedures
- check_circleCollect and preserve evidence while preparing reports and case files
Requirements
- verifiedUnited States citizenship or other legal residency and work status
- verifiedHigh school diploma or equivalent
- verifiedEligibility for a security clearance
- verifiedAbility to meet Navy medical and physical fitness standards
- verifiedAbility to qualify with small arms and other weapons
Nice to Have
Prior-service Sailors from other ratings may be able to convert into MA based on community needs and screening; Reserve opportunities may exist for qualified prior-service or SELRES applicants, often requiring completion of MA 'A' School or equivalent training and, for some billets, specific NECs or follow-on schools.
Benefits & Perks
check_circleTuition Assistance and Post-9/11 GI Billcheck_circleACE-recommended college credit for Navy trainingcheck_circleNavy COOL-funded certificationscheck_circleUSMAP apprenticeshipscheck_circleNavy College Program opportunitiescheck_circleHealth coveragecheck_circleRetirement options
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