Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms)
Not Disclosed•Full-TimeOn-site
location_onEast 8th Street, Downtown, Saint Paul, Ramsey County, Minnesota, 55101, United States
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. From conducting force protection patrols on piers to managing corrections and investigations, MAs operate in diverse environments ranging from bases and aircraft carriers to expeditionary units and strategic weapons facilities.
This role is designed for individuals ready to serve in a fast-paced, armed, and safety-critical environment. You will be the first line of defense, responsible for access control, vehicle and personnel inspections, and responding to emergencies. The position offers a clear path for growth, allowing you to specialize in areas such as military working dogs, harbor security, or protective services as you gain experience and qualify for advanced billets like watch commander or investigator.
What to Expect
Life as a Master-at-Arms demands professionalism, sharp judgment, and attention to detail. You will work in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to ensure 24/7 security coverage. The role involves exposure to high-stress situations, requiring calm decision-making during emergencies, accidents, or criminal activity.
Your work environment will be dynamic, taking you from flight lines and security operations centers to patrol vehicles and harbor security boats. You will integrate closely with other security forces, Marine units, NCIS, and joint partners. As you progress, you will take on increasing responsibility, supervising junior personnel and leading specialized missions.
Training & 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. Advancement is driven by on-the-job qualification through Personnel Qualification Standards and unit training.
The Navy offers extensive opportunities for career-long development. You can pursue advanced schools to earn Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs) as a Military Working Dog Handler, Harbor Security Coxswain, Corrections Specialist, or Criminal Investigator. Leadership development is also a priority, with access to warfare qualifications (such as ESWS or EAWS) and senior enlisted leader programs.
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 force that reflects the nation it serves.
Work location
Work model: On-site
East 8th Street, Downtown, Saint Paul, Ramsey County, Minnesota, 55101, United States
Saint Paul, Minnesota
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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