Join the Coast Guard > Port Security Specialist (PS)

Qualify for this special program, and you'll train in general law enforcement and defensive combat techniques to provide limited shoreside and waterside security. You'll learn the principles of communication security, operational security, and the gathering and use of intelligence data. Among your duties will be port security planning, including risk assessments, to determine the vulnerability of port operations. Types of Duty Possible assignments include involvement in support of Department of Defense national defense operations overseas, as part of a Naval Coastal Warfare Harbor Defense Unit or a Coast Guard port security team. You could also be a part of a Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST). MSSTs primary responsibility is to deploy throughout the United States and provide heightened waterside and shoreside capability in support of maritime homeland security requirements. Training If you enter through the RK or RP programs, you'll attend the seven-week PS school in Yorktown, VA, following successful completion of Recruit Training at Cape May, NJ. If you're accepted to the Direct Petty Officer Program, you'll attend two weeks of training in Cape May, NJ. Some candidates may qualify to attend the PS school. Qualifications To qualify for this program, you'll need above average intelligence, normal hearing and vision, physical strength/agility, and good interpersonal skills. Any prior experience in law enforcement or military experience with combat skills is considered very valuable. Related Civilian Jobs Local, state, or federal law enforcement Physical and personal security positions