Criminal Investigator- Special Agent

Summary

TOUGH WORK. VITAL MISSION. Challenge yourself! You have the power to help combat drug trafficking. Be a part of DEA! It’s tough work, but a vital mission. Whatever your background or expertise, your work at DEA will be tremendously rewarding because it will have a daily impact on national security and the quality of life of all Americans.

• Conduct complex criminal investigations targeting narcotics and drug‑related activities.
• Prepare comprehensive investigative reports and deliver briefings for senior personnel and other federal, state, and local agencies.
• Identify and apprehend drug traffickers and arrest individuals engaged in criminal drug activities.
• Gather and analyze evidence through investigative leads, seizures, arrests, execution of search warrants, and a variety of other means.
• Testify on behalf of the Federal government in court or before grand juries.

Additional duties may be assigned based upon an individual’s unique knowledge, skills, and/or experience.

• U.S. citizenship required.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top‑Secret security clearance.
• Must sign a mobility agreement and be willing to relocate as needed.
• Must complete a pre‑employment medical clearance and annual medical exam.
• Full‑scope pre‑employment polygraph is required.
• Must register or be exempt from Selective Service (if applicable).
• Age 21–36 at appointment, unless a preference eligible veteran or retiree.
• Must pass E‑Verify check.
• Must serve a 1‑year or 2‑year trial period, during which fitness and contribution to the public interest are evaluated.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
• Subject to random drug testing.
• Must successfully complete a 16‑week basic agent training (BAT) course at the DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
• 1811 applicants who have completed an FCIT program may qualify for a 3‑week Special Agent Transition Program.

Applicants who have not completed previous federal law enforcement training must attend the 16‑week residential training program. Current or former 1811 applicants who have successfully completed a Federal Criminal Investigation training program may qualify for a 3‑week Special Agent Transition Program (FCIT transcripts must be attached).

• Eligibility requirements are detailed in the DEA Employment Eligibility guide.
• For GL‑07 level, one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to GL/GS‑05 or pay band, including: assisting in investigations, writing reports, and researching/collecting/analyzing data; or
  • One year of graduate‑level education in a related field, or
  • SAA based on superior academic achievement (grade‑point average, class standing, or honor society membership).
• For GL‑09 level, one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to GL/GS‑07, including: assisting in investigations; collecting/analyzing data; writing reports and briefings; meeting with court officials; assisting prosecutors; testifying; or
  • Master’s degree, 2‑year graduate education, or LL.B./J.D.
• For GS‑11 level, one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to GL/GS‑09, including: conducting investigations, developing operational plans, operating undercover, developing information from confidential sources, interviewing, organizing evidence, or testifying; or
  • Ph.D., LL.M., or three years of progressive graduate education.
• Combination of education and experience may be used to meet the required percentage (experience % + education % ≥ 100%).
• Education must be accredited by a U.S. Department of Education–recognized accrediting institution or be comparable if foreign.
• Pass/fail courses must be limited to less than 10% of undergraduate workload.
• One year of graduate education equals 18 semester hours.

Requires moderate to arduous physical exertion, including walking, standing, firearms use, and exposure to inclement weather. Applicants must pass a pre‑employment medical examination. Disqualifying conditions include any medical condition that hazards the applicant or others.

Must be authorized to carry a firearm, maintain proficiency, and confirm no misdemeanor domestic‑violence convictions.

All applicants must disclose current and past drug usage. Prior drug use may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Position subject to reassignment to any domestic DEA facility. Full relocation expenses paid for transfers from another federal position. New federal employees pay uncovered relocation costs.

Comprehensive federal benefits package available. Eligibility depends on position type and status. Contact the hiring agency for details.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or age.