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contact work concerned with information gathering; active participation in community action programs
in teaching and counseling roles; or civilian or military supervisory work involving leadership and
decisionmaking.
Qualifying work experience should demonstrate that the candidate can communicate effectively, both
orally and in writing, and is able to exercise tact in dealing with others. It should also show that the
applicant has poise and self-confidence and is able to make decisions quickly while exercising sound
judgment. The length of this work experience is of less importance than demonstrated success in positions
of responsibility, and possession of the required length of experience does not automatically qualify an
applicant. One academic year of study in an accredited college or university may be substituted for nine
months of general work experience up to a maximum of three years of experience. Individuals with four-
year college degrees meet the full work-experience requirement and qualify for the entry-level position.
In addition to meeting these experience and/or educational requirements, candidates must qualify on
the Treasury Enforcement Agent (TEA) Exam. Along with the verbal reasoning, arithmetic reasoning,
and problems for investigation sections of the TEA exam, the Deputy U.S. Marshal candidate must
answer self-rating questions on a personal achievement inventory. Answers to these questions will help
the Justice Department examiners to determine whether the candidate has the pattern of interests and
achievements of successful Deputy U.S. Marshals currently in service. Similarity of pattern of interests
and achievements in a well-qualified candidate tends to predict success on the job.
After the applicant has passed the written test, agency personnel conduct interviews to evaluate such
qualities as appearance, poise, and other traits required for successful work performance. The interview
also serves as an oral examination. At the interview, the candidate is presented with a number of
hypothetical scenarios and is asked how he or she would react if faced with these situations. This is
basically a test of judgment. Persons selected from the list of eligibles are given an extensive medical
examination to determine physical and mental fitness and freedom from conditions that would hamper
normal work performance. These standards are the minimums and are not waived in any case. Finally,
a personal background investigation is conducted to determine loyalty, honesty, character, and general
suitability for the job. Each candidate must have a valid driver's license when hired and must be able to
operate motor vehicles in accordance with appropriate government regulations.
Newly hired Deputies initially enter a 12-week basic training program given at the Federal Law
Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Glynco, Georgia. Basic training consists of an eight-week
course at the Criminal Investigator School, conducted by FLETC personnel, followed by a four-week
program at the U.S. Marshals Service Basic Training School. The subject matter dealt with during this
training period includes U.S. Marshals Service policies, rules, and regulations; methods of arrest, search,
and seizure; investigation techniques; court procedures; use of legal warrants; protection of witnesses;
riot control; care and use of firearms; physical training; methods of self-defense; and preparation of
reports. After the successful completion of this program, new Deputies work along with experienced
personnel of the U.S. Marshals Service until they gain sufficient expertise to work independently. At
varying intervals, Deputy U.S. Marshals are offered specialized and refresher-type training to keep their
skills current and to aid in career development.
POSTAL POLICE OFFICER
An applicant for the position of Postal Police Officer must be at least 20 years of age and, unless a veteran,
cannot be appointed until reaching the age of 21 years. The Postal Police Officer must be physically able
to perform the duties of the job, must have weight in proportion to height, must have good color vision
and good distant vision (no weaker than 20/40 in one eye and 20/50 in the other eye correctable to 20/20),
and must have keen hearing. Emotional and mental stability are essential for the armed officer, and a
psychological interview is part of the qualification process. Drug testing is required as well. The candidate
must demonstrate the ability to deal with the public in a courteous and tactful manner; to work in stressful
