W H AT I S A D E TA C H M E N T C O M M A N D E R
AND HOW TO BECOME ONE
A detachment commander is a professional responsible for managing various aspects of security
operations, logistics, and human resources. They conduct security inspections, enforce safeguards for
classified materials and systems, and monitor operations to ensure they adhere to budget constraints.
Detachment commanders coordinate security operations based on guidance from regional security
officers and have experience in protective service tactics, anti-ambush operations, and physical
security. They also manage logistics, provide administrative support to unit commanders, and oversee
civil-military operations training. In addition, detachment commanders maintain accountability for
military equipment, manage government property, and coordinate with other agencies for tactical
support. They lead training operations, develop intelligence targeting packets, and establish positive
work environments to enhance overall performance.
How long does it take to become a detachment commander?
It typically takes 2-3 years to become a detachment commander:
Years 1-2: Gain the necessary work experience in relevant duties and skills.
Year 3: Complete on-site and on-the-job training, typically lasting 6-12 months each.
Score Detachment Commander US Average
Salary 7.7 Avg. Salary $105,535 Avg. Salary $59,228
Diversity 2.4 Race Race
American Indian and Alaska Native 1.38% American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 1.83% Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 11.28% Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 15.58% Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
Unknown 3.97% White 57.00%
White 65.96%
Gender Gender
female 11.34% female 47.00%
male 88.66% male 53.00%
Age – 47 Age - 47
Stress Level 10.0 Stress level is very high 7.1 - high
Complexity Level 7.3 Complexity Level is challenging 7 - challenging
Work Life Balance 4.6 Work Life balance is fair 6.4 – fair
Detachment Commander career paths
A detachment commander can move into various roles. They might become a platoon leader,
operations officer, or assistant operations officer. They could also move into management
positions like a branch chief or division chief. Some detachment commanders might choose
to work in security, becoming a security manager, security operations manager, or corporate
security manager. Others might prefer to work in human resources, becoming a human
resources manager or senior human resources manager.
Key steps to become a detachment commander
1. Explore detachment commander education requirements
The educational requirements for a detachment commander are a combination of high
school diplomas, certificates, associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees. According to the
data, 36.57% of detachment commanders have a high school diploma, 7.07% have a
certificate, 37.87% have an associate's degree, 14.02% have a bachelor's degree, and 4.48%
have a master's degree. None have a doctorate. Common majors include Business, Criminal
Justice, Political Science, History, and Management. Some top schools for this career path are
Pennsylvania State University, California State University - Bakersfield, SUNY at Binghamton,
University of Georgia, and SUNY at Albany.
Most common detachment commander degrees
Bachelor's 73.9 %
Master's 13.2 %
Associate 8.2 %
High School Diploma 1.5 %
Diploma 1.3 %
Doctorate 1.1 %
Certificate 0.9 %
2. Start to develop specific detachment commander skills
A detachment commander needs to be proficient in various security operations. They must
be able to conduct security inspections, monitor plans to stay within budget, and coordinate
with regional security officers. They should also be knowledgeable in protective service
tactics, anti-ambush operations, and evasive driving techniques. Additionally, they must be
skilled in logistics and human resource management, conducting internal reviews to identify
potential issues and mitigate risks.
Skills Percentages
US Army 3.18%
Property Accountability 7.08%
Professional Development 7.17%
Operational Readiness 3.04%
Logistical Support 14.50%
Combat 14.61%
3. Complete relevant detachment commander training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New
detachment commanders learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer
during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a
detachment commander based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real
detachment commander resumes.
4. Research detachment commander duties and responsibilities
A detachment commander is responsible for ensuring the proper safeguard of classified
material, equipment, and systems. They also oversee operational budgets, coordinate
security operations, and conduct liaison with counterpart agencies. They manage logistics
and human resources, conduct investigations, and provide armed security for diplomatic
facilities. They also maintain accountability for military equipment and unique intelligence
collection systems.
o Manage and adapt the employment of various radio, satellite, and data networks
supporting daily combat operations.
o Orchestrate squadron recognition programs, manage enlisted promotion
recommendations and alleviate all airmen quality force issues.
o Collect and disseminate threat information vital to the protection of USAF and
DoD personnel and resources.
o Recognize as the DoD's SME for strategic understanding and operational
expertise for cargo moving through Qatar / Oman ports.
5. Prepare your detachment commander's resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your detachment commander
resume.
6. Apply for detachment commander jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a detachment commander job. Consider the tips below for
a successful job search:
1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
2. Consult your professional network
3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
4. Watch out for job scams
Reference: https://www.zippia.com/detachment-commander-jobs/?fbclid=IwY2xjawEekIZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHWfhOYaMhdwd3Sdb-
egEo5USmxgtiO00VTdL6vHMeKQhTnzmlf__oF8Olw_aem_38t3ewkYPZMKD7ySV-Fmeg
