How to Join the U.S. Secret Service Counter Assault Team (CAT)

Joining the U.S. Secret Service Counter Assault Team (CAT) is no small feat. It’s a challenge reserved for those with exceptional skills, mental fortitude, and a deep commitment to protecting Uncle Sam’s most important figures.

The origins of the U.S. Secret Service Counter Assault Team (CAT) can be traced back to the aftermath of the JFK assassination in 1963. This unfortunate incident exposed vulnerabilities in presidential security and highlighted the need for a specialized response team.

Whether neutralizing a threat in a split second or coordinating complex protective maneuvers, CAT operators are trained to respond precisely under extreme pressure. And in this article, I’ll talk about what it takes to join the U.S. Secret Service Counter Assault Team.

1. Eligibility Criteria for Secret Service Counter Assault Team

Joining the U.S. Secret Service Counter Assault Team (CAT) requires meeting stringent eligibility criteria to ensure that only the most capable and prepared individuals are considered.

A. Basic Requirements

U.S. Citizenship: This is a no-brainer, as CAT operators are tasked with protecting the highest offices in the nation.

Age Limits: Applicants must typically be between the ages of 21 and 37 at the time of application. However, waivers may be granted for applicants with exceptional qualifications or prior military or law enforcement experience.

Educational Qualifications: A minimum of a high school diploma or GED is required to apply.

While this is the baseline requirement, candidates with higher educational qualifications, such as a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or a related field, may have an advantage during the selection process.

Medical and Physical Standards: This includes passing a comprehensive medical examination that assesses overall health, vision, hearing, and the absence of any conditions that could impair performance in high-stress environments.

Source for more information on medical and physical qualifications: secretservice.gov

B. Law Enforcement Experience

To be considered for CAT, you must have at least three years of relevant experience in law enforcement or military service. It ensures the CAT operatives have the foundational skills and discipline necessary for advanced tactical training.

Experience in a specialized unit such as SWAT, military special operations, or another tactical team is highly preferred, as it indicates your ability to perform under extreme pressure and in complex operational environments.

Read More: How To Join The FBI Hostage Rescue Team

Here are some skills and backgrounds that are highly sought after within CAT:

• Advanced marksmanship and firearms proficiency
• Tactical training and experience in high-risk operations
• Physical fitness and combat readiness
• Leadership and team coordination skills
• Experience in counter-terrorism, drug interdiction, or human trafficking operations
• Specialized certifications (e.g., EMT, Paramedic, SCUBA Certification)

2. Application and Selection Process for Secret Service Counter Assault Team

A. How to apply for the Counter Assault Team?

You must become a Special Agent with the U.S. Secret Service before applying for the Counter Assault Team. This process starts with completing an online application through the official U.S. Secret Service recruitment portal, accessible via usajobs.gov.

Here are the prerequisites for the Counter Assault Team according to the secretservice.gov website:

Prior to being assigned to the Counter Assault Team (CAT), candidates must successfully complete two courses at the James J. Rowley Training Center (JJRTC). 

The first is a two-week CAT Selection Course, and the second is a seven-week CAT Basic Course.

Phase 1 – Candidates must be employed as a special agent with the Secret Service at least two years and four months by the graduation date of the next scheduled CAT Basic Course to attend a CAT Selection Course. 

Phase 3 – To be eligible for selection to a Phase 3 CAT assignment listed in a job opportunity announcement, a candidate must meet one of the time requirements listed below:

• If the candidate is currently in a Phase 2 protective assignment: Must complete six years in the protective assignment by the date specifically listed in the JOA; OR
• If the candidate is currently in a Phase 3 assignment in a foreign field office, CID/CSP, TSD or JJRTC: Must complete three years by the date specifically listed in the JOA; OR
• If the candidate is currently in a Phase 3 assignment in a domestic field office, headquarters, or protection assignment not listed in the prior bullet: Must complete two years by the date specifically listed in the JOA; OR
• Have already completed the Phase 3 assignment commitments outlined above in the candidate’s current Phase 3 assignment.

All applying agents must have achieved an evaluation of “Excellent” on the Secret Service’s physical fitness test administered by a Secret Service-certified Physical Training coordinator while in their current office/assignment before submitting their name for CAT selection.

You can get detailed information on the prerequisite criteria here.

B. How to Apply for a Special Agent position with the U.S. Secret Service?

You can apply for a position in the U.S. Secret Service through their careers page. The application process involves submitting a comprehensive application packet that includes:

• Resume: A detailed resume highlighting your law enforcement or military experience, educational background, and relevant skills
• Transcripts: Copies of educational transcripts, particularly if you hold a degree
• Personal History Statement: A detailed account of your background, including employment history, criminal record (if any), and other pertinent information
• References: Professional references who can attest to your qualifications, work ethic, and suitability for a role in the U.S. Secret Service

Application Fees: While there are generally no fees to apply for federal positions, candidates should be prepared to cover the costs associated with obtaining necessary documentation, such as transcripts or official records.

You can check the available openings at U.S. Secret Service here.

V. Pre-Selection Screening

Once your initial application is accepted, you will enter the pre-selection screening phase. In this phase, the Secret Service will determine whether you possess the physical, mental, and ethical qualities required for a position in CAT.

Historically, only about 10-15% of applicants who begin the process successfully pass and make it to the selection course for the Secret Service’s Counter Assault Team. This underscores the rigor of the selection process and the high standards required.

During the selection process, the attrition rate can be as high as 50%, particularly during the physical and psychological testing phases.

I. Initial Assessments and Background Checks

• Background Check: The U.S. Secret Service conducts an exhaustive background investigation, including interviews with family members, neighbors, and employers.
• Polygraph Examination: Candidates must pass a polygraph test to verify the truthfulness of their personal history statement and other application information.
• Psychological Evaluation: A preliminary psychological evaluation may be conducted to assess mental fitness and stability.

II. Special Agent Entrance Exam (SAEE)

This exam is designed to assess a candidate’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in areas essential for success as a Special Agent. The SAEE evaluates cognitive abilities, reasoning skills, and knowledge relevant to law enforcement duties.

The SAEE is typically composed of five key sections:

1. Logical Reasoning
2. Arithmetic Reasoning
3. Writing Skills
4. Judgment and Decision Making
5. Attention to Detail

III. Physical Fitness Tests

1. Push Ups – 1 minute

2. Sit Ups – 1 minute

3. Chin-Ups

4. 1.5 Mile Run

Here’s a detailed version of all those tables and stats on the official site: secretservice.gov

D. Selection Evaluations

I. Psychological Evaluations

Candidates must undergo a series of psychological evaluations designed to assess their mental resilience, decision-making abilities, and overall psychological fitness.

• Personality Assessments: Tests like the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) assess personality traits and identify potential mental health concerns.
• Situational Judgment Tests (SJT): These tests present candidates with hypothetical scenarios to assess their decision-making and problem-solving abilities under stress.

II. Ethical and Integrity Assessments

The Secret Service places a high value on ethics and integrity. You’ll undergo tests that include:

• Ethical Dilemmas: Written or oral scenarios where candidates must demonstrate their ability to make ethically sound decisions.
• Integrity Interviews: In-depth interviews focused on the candidate’s history, personal values, and commitment to the principles of the U.S. Secret Service.

III. Advanced Tactical Training

The final phase of the selection process involves intense tactical training exercises that simulate real-world scenarios. This training tests the candidate’s ability to perform under pressure and in high-stress environments.

Read More: The Most Important Trait When Preparing For Selection

3. How to prepare for the Secret Service Counter Assault Team?

Preparing to join the U.S. Secret Service Counter Assault Team (CAT) requires a long-term commitment to physical conditioning, mental resilience, and tactical proficiency.

A. Physical Fitness Preparation

To meet the demanding physical requirements of CAT, I have my students engage in a tactical fitness program that focuses on building strength, endurance, and agility.

• Bigger Individuals: For those with a larger body mass, the focus should be on aerobic conditioning to build endurance and reduce the risk of injuries such as rhabdomyolysis.
• Thinner/Endurance Types: Individuals with a leaner build should focus on strength training to handle the heavy rucking and equipment carries typical of CAT operations.

The primary goals of your training should be injury prevention and balanced conditioning.

Interested in 1-on-1 coaching? I accept a select few athletes, with slots becoming available as candidates ship out. You can apply for coaching here.

A well-rounded training program should include:

• Strength Exercises: Incorporate TRX, calisthenics, and weightlifting to build overall body strength.
• Cardio and Endurance: Regular running, rucking, and swimming sessions to build cardiovascular endurance.
• Recovery and Flexibility: Include recovery days, stretching, and mobility exercises to prevent injury and maintain flexibility.

Preparation for CAT requires a long-term commitment, with a progressive training program generally lasting 12-24 weeks.

B. Mental and Tactical Preparation

Mental toughness is as important as physical fitness in CAT operations. Preparing mentally involves:

• Stress Inoculation Training: Simulating high-stress situations during training to improve your ability to perform under pressure.
• Visualization Techniques: Practicing mental visualization of successful outcomes in high-pressure scenarios to build confidence and focus.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques like meditation and controlled breathing to manage stress and maintain composure during intense situations.

To prepare tactically, candidates should focus on building skills in areas relevant to CAT operations:

• Firearms Proficiency: Practice at the range to improve marksmanship with various weapons.
• Close Quarters Combat (CQC): Train in hand-to-hand combat and CQC scenarios to develop the skills needed for engagements in confined spaces.
• Team Coordination: Participate in team-based training exercises to enhance communication, coordination, and decision-making in group settings.

4. CAT Training Program

Once you’ve successfully navigated the rigorous application and selection process for the Counter Assault Team (CAT), you’ll enter an equally challenging and comprehensive training program.

CBS host and former football player Nate Burleson tried to see for himself what it’s like to train for the Secret Service’s Counter Assault Team. Take a look:

A. Initial Training

The CAT training program is structured to build on the foundational skills you’ve developed during your law enforcement or military career and during the selection process.

The initial training phase typically lasts several months and is conducted in highly secure U.S. Secret Service training facilities. These locations have state-of-the-art technology and resources that replicate the environments and scenarios you’ll encounter in the field.

B. Specialized Training Modules

Tactical Skills and Weapons Training:

A significant portion of the CAT training program focuses on advanced tactical skills and weapons proficiency. This training is essential for ensuring that CAT operators can handle a variety of scenarios, from high-risk urban engagements to covert operations.

• Small Unit Tactics: This module covers the coordination of movements, communication under fire, and the execution of complex maneuvers.
• Close Quarters Combat (CQC): This training emphasizes speed, accuracy, and the ability to neutralize threats in extremely tight conditions.
• Advanced Marksmanship: This module focuses on improving shooting accuracy with various firearms, including pistols, rifles, and submachine guns. Operators must demonstrate proficiency in both stationary and dynamic shooting scenarios.

Medical and Emergency Response Training:

• Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC): This training module focuses on providing lifesaving medical care under fire. Operators learn how to treat trauma injuries, control bleeding, and manage airways in high-stress situations.
• Emergency Medical Techniques: Operators receive training in emergency medical procedures, such as CPR, the use of tourniquets, and the administration of emergency medications.

Counter-Terrorism and High-Risk Operations:

Given the nature of CAT’s mission, counter-terrorism and high-risk operations training is a cornerstone of the program.

• Interdictions and Vehicle Assaults: This includes vehicle stops, high-speed chases, and tactical vehicle assaults.
• Surveillance and Counter-Surveillance: This module covers the conduct of surveillance on potential threats and the detection and evasion of surveillance on the operators themselves.
• Assault Climber Techniques: Some missions may require access to difficult-to-reach locations, such as high-rise buildings or rugged terrain.

Operational Planning and Execution:

CAT operators must be adept at planning and executing complex operations. This training ensures operators can develop, communicate, and execute plans precisely.

C. Field Training Exercises

Real-World Scenarios and Simulations: Field training exercises (FTX) are a critical component of the CAT training program. These exercises simulate real-world scenarios that operators may encounter during their missions.

The simulations are designed to be realistic, incorporating elements such as live fire, role-playing actors, and complex operational environments.

Team-Based Operations and Coordination: The ability to operate as part of a cohesive team is essential in CAT operations. This aspect of the training focuses on developing the trust, communication, and coordination necessary for success.

5. Career Path and Salary

CAT operators are part of an elite group that offers unique opportunities for career advancement, specialization, and professional development.

A. Career Advancement

Career advancement within CAT is based on performance, experience, and the ability to take on leadership roles.

As you gain experience, you can progress through the ranks and take on more specialized roles, such as team leader, sniper/observer, EOD specialist, tactical instructor or attain command positions.

B. Benefits and Compensation

CAT operators are compensated according to the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with additional allowances reflecting the specialized nature of their work:

• Base Salary: Operators typically start at the GS-11 level, with the potential to advance to GS-13 or higher.
  • GS-11 Range: Approximately $55,204 to $71,764 annually.
  • GS-13 Range: Approximately $79,468 to $103,309 annually.
• Overtime Pay: Given the demanding nature of CAT operations, operators often receive overtime pay, significantly increasing their overall earnings.
• Special Pay Adjustments: Additional compensation for hazardous duty, location-based cost of living adjustments, and administratively uncontrollable overtime (AUO).

Sources:

• U.S. Secret Service official recruitment page: usajobs.gov
• U.S. Secret Service official website: secretservice.gov
• General law enforcement and military recruitment standards from official sources like fbijobs.gov and goarmy.com.
• U.S. Office of Personnel Management: opm.gov