Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms)

About the Role

Master-at-Arms (MA) Sailors form the backbone of the Navy's security, antiterrorism, and law enforcement capabilities. Their mission is to protect people, installations, ships, and strategic assets both at home and abroad. Whether stationed on bases, aboard aircraft carriers, or deployed in expeditionary environments, MAs ensure safety through force protection, physical security, and policing operations.

This role is designed for those who thrive in a fast-paced, armed, and safety-critical environment. You will be the first line of defense, conducting patrols, controlling access to secure areas, and responding to emergencies with calm judgment and professionalism. The position offers a dynamic career path where you can specialize in diverse fields such as military working dogs, harbor security, corrections, investigations, or protective services.

What to Expect

Life as a Master-at-Arms involves frequent duty in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to maintain 24/7 security coverage. You will work in a variety of settings, from flight lines and piers to security operations centers and patrol vehicles. The role demands high standards of physical fitness and ongoing qualification in weapons handling, use of force, and tactical skills.

As you progress, you will take on increasing responsibility, potentially advancing to roles such as patrol supervisor, watch commander, or investigator. You will work closely with other security forces, Marine units, NCIS, and joint or host-nation partners, integrating into a broader network of defense and law enforcement.

Training and Career Path

Your journey begins with Recruit Training, followed by Master-at-Arms Class "A" School at Lackland AFB. Here, you will master the fundamentals of law enforcement, weapons handling, antiterrorism, and security operations. From there, you will report to an operational security force billet at an installation, ship, or expeditionary unit.

Career development is continuous. You will pursue progressive on-the-job qualifications and have opportunities to attend advanced schools to earn specialized Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs). These can include Military Working Dog Handler, Harbor Security Coxswain, Corrections Specialist, and Criminal Investigator. Throughout your career, you can also pursue leadership courses and warfare qualifications to further your expertise.

Equal Opportunity

The United States Navy is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve.