Deputy U.S. Marshals

In general, deputy U.S. marshals work 40 hours a week. These hours are usually during the daytime, Monday through Friday, but overtime and other shifts are sometimes required. Travel may be necessary, for example, to transport a prisoner from one state to another.

Deputies generally work out of well-maintained, clean offices, but their duties can take them to a wide variety of environments, such as a courtroom; an automobile, helicopter, or airplane; the streets of a major U.S. city; or, when trying to locate a fugitive, a foreign country.

Like all law enforcement jobs, personal safety is a concern. Those interested in working for the U.S. Marshals Service should be well aware of the potential for physical harm or even death. Because of the danger, deputies carry firearms and are well trained in self-defense and other paramilitary techniques. Strenuous physical exertion, emotional stress, and exposure to harsh conditions (such as poor weather) are often a part of the job.

For some deputies, an advantage of the job is the diversity of cases. Others find personal satisfaction in knowing that they are serving their country. Deputy U.S. marshals enjoy great respect and confidence from the public.