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. From conducting force protection patrols on piers to managing corrections and investigations, MAs operate in diverse environments ranging from aircraft carriers and expeditionary units to strategic weapons facilities.

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, responsible for access control, evidence collection, and crowd control during emergencies. The position offers a clear path of increasing responsibility, allowing you to specialize in areas such as military working dogs, harbor security, or protective services as you qualify for advanced billets like watch commander or investigator.

What to Expect

Life as a Master-at-Arms requires unwavering attention to detail, sound judgment, and professionalism. You will work in a 24/7 operational environment, often rotating through nights, weekends, and holidays to ensure continuous security coverage. The role involves frequent exposure to high-stress situations, demanding calm decision-making and strong communication skills under pressure.

Your career will be defined by continuous development. You will undergo ongoing qualification and requalification in weapons handling, use of force, and tactical skills. Assignments may take you to Navy installations in the U.S. and overseas, aboard ships, or with forward-deployed units. You will work closely with a diverse network of partners, including other security forces, Marine units, NCIS, and joint or host-nation allies.

Training and Advancement

Your journey begins with Recruit Training, followed by the 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 progress through on-the-job qualification standards and unit training.

The Navy offers extensive opportunities for career-long development. You can pursue advanced schools to earn specialized Navy Enlisted Classifications (NECs) such as Military Working Dog Handler, Harbor Security Coxswain, Corrections Specialist, or Criminal Investigator. Leadership growth is supported through 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, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Our commitment to diversity strengthens our ability to protect the nation and its interests.