A unique opportunity to serve at the frontlines of U.S. border security is now available with the announcement of DHS Volunteer Force jobs USA 2025. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), managed through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is recruiting current Department of War civilian employees to support critical operations for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
This initiative offers federal volunteer assignments DHS that provide direct operational support in maintaining a safe and orderly immigration system. If you are looking for FEMA volunteer force jobs that involve impactful temporary service with full compensation and travel reimbursement, this is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to national security.
DHS Volunteer Force Jobs USA 2025 Overview
This table provides a summary of this Department of War detail program.
Property |
Details |
|---|---|
Position Title |
Volunteer Force (DOW Detail) |
Agency |
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) via FEMA |
Eligibility |
Current Department of War civilian employees (any grade) |
Duration |
Up to 180 days (full-time detail) |
Salary Range |
$25,684 – $191,900 per year (maintains current pay/grade) |
Travel |
76% or greater (deployment location determined by operational need) |
Location |
Nationwide (ICE/CBP facilities, U.S. border locations) |
Security Clearance |
Not Required |
Telework |
No (on-location only) |
Application Period |
09/29/2025 – 09/28/2026 |
Application Portal |
About the DHS Volunteer Force Program
This official job posting is issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The Volunteer Force (VF) program enables experienced federal employees to volunteer for temporary details supporting ICE and CBP volunteer opportunities at facilities throughout the United States. Volunteers serve in critical support roles for up to 180 days, with all travel, lodging, and per diem reimbursed by the receiving agency. This is not a law enforcement position—volunteers provide administrative, data management, and logistical support to enhance operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
As a DHS Volunteer Force detailee, your responsibilities will be commensurate with your current grade level and will not include law enforcement functions. Key duties include:
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Data Entry and Management: Entering and maintaining data elements in relevant information systems supporting ICE and CBP operations.
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Operational Planning Support: Assisting in developing concepts of operation and campaign plans for internal arrests, raids, and patrols along the Southwest Border.
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Processing and Throughput Logistics: Managing the physical flow of detained individuals from arrest to deportation and maintaining associated data.
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Logistical Coordination: Assisting in the planning and movement of law enforcement personnel, operational capabilities, and support equipment across the United States.
Required Qualifications and Eligibility
To be eligible for these federal temporary assignments USA, candidates must meet the following criteria:
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Employment Status: Must be a current federal civilian employee from the Department of War at any grade level.
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Service Duration: Must have served with your current agency for more than 90 days and no longer be in a probationary period.
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Performance Standing: Must be in good performance standing with no current or pending disciplinary actions.
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Identification: Must possess an HSPD-12 compliant identification badge (e.g., PIV, Military ID).
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Supervisory Approval: Completion of the Supervisory Deployment Authorization form is required.
Compensation and Benefits
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Current Salary Maintained: Volunteers continue to be paid at their current rate, grade, and step—this is not a promotion opportunity.
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Reimbursement: ICE or CBP reimburses all base pay, overtime, premium pay, travel expenses, lodging, and per diem in accordance with federal regulations.
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Work Hours: Detailees may be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, with extensive overtime potentially required.
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Deployment Timeline: You may be asked to deploy within 96 hours of receiving all necessary approvals.
How to Apply for DHS Volunteer Force Jobs
The application process for DHS detail program 2025 requires several specific documents.
Application Deadline: 09/28/2026 (Applications reviewed on a rolling basis)
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Complete Required Forms: Download and complete the Supervisory Deployment Authorization Form, PREA Form, and BIRD Form 78 Section B from the DHS Volunteer Force Documentation page.
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Submit SF-50: Provide a copy of your most recent SF-50 demonstrating your Department of War employment.
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Apply Online: Visit USAJOBS.gov (Control Number: 846915600) and complete the online questionnaire.
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Upload Documents: Submit all required forms as supporting documents with your application.
For specific inquiries, contact DHS Volunteer Force at fema-volunteerforce@fema.dhs.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I apply for the DHS Volunteer Force program?
You must be a current Department of War civilian employee. Complete the required authorization forms, submit your SF-50, and apply through USAJOBS.gov. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis through September 28, 2026.
2. Will I receive additional pay for volunteering with DHS?
No, you maintain your current salary, grade, and step. However, ICE or CBP reimburses your agency for all base pay, overtime, premium pay, travel, lodging, and per diem incurred during the detail.
3. How quickly can I be deployed after approval?
You may be asked to deploy within 96 hours of receiving all necessary approvals, so be prepared for rapid mobilization.
