Q: I’m in a 6C law enforcement covered position and will be reaching nine years of service when I turn 43. I am thinking of taking a Non-LEO (non-coverage) federal government position in the next few months. Once I do that can I ever return to a 6C federal law enforcement position, and how long would I have to wait before returning?
A: You could return to a law enforcement position if someone wants to hire you. To give you a time frame, law enforcement officers are subject to mandatory separation at age 57. However, if you were rehired at an age where you’d have to work beyond age 57 to meet the age and service requirements, you would be allowed to stay on the job until retirement eligible. Further, if it is in the public interest, an agency head can delay mandatory separation until age 60.