PUBLIC - DEA Criminal Investigators

Public Notice – DEA Criminal Investigators

Join to apply for the PUBLIC NOTICE- DEA Criminal Investigators role at Drug Enforcement Administration
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Announcement dates: USAJOBS posting on January 12th and April 6th, 2026. 3 days ago – be among the first 25 applicants.

This is a public notice for DEA Criminal Investigator positions (GL‑1811‑7/9/11) open to U.S. Citizens. The duty station and salary range are not specified in this notice but can be viewed on USAJOBS for the confirmed posting.

• Conduct complex criminal investigations targeting narcotics and drug‑related activities.
• Prepare succinct investigative reports and deliver briefings to senior personnel and partnering agencies.
• Identify and apprehend drug traffickers and other individuals engaged in criminal drug activity.
• Gather and analyze evidence through investigative leads, seizures, arrests, warrant execution, and other means.
• Testify on behalf of the Federal government in court or before grand juries.
• Additional duties may be assigned based on the individual’s knowledge, skills, and experience.

• Applicants who have not completed federal law‑enforcement training must attend a 16‑week residential program. Former 1811 applicants with a completed Federal Criminal Investigation training program may qualify for a 3‑week transition program (FCIT transcripts required).

• U.S. citizenship required.
• Obtain and maintain a Top‑Secret security clearance.
• Sign a mobility agreement for potential relocation.
• Complete a pre‑employment medical clearance and annual medical examination.
• Pass a full‑scope polygraph; reciprocity may be available for 1811 applicants.
• Register or be exempt from Selective Service (males born after 12/31/59).
• Age 21‑36 at appointment (exceptions for veterans or certain federal retirees).
• Pass E‑Verify.
• Serve a 1‑ or 2‑year trial period.
• Maintain a valid state driver’s license and be subject to random drug testing.
• Complete 16‑ to 20‑week Basic Agent Training at DEA Training Academy.

Applicants must meet the qualification requirements for GL‑07, GL‑09, or GS‑11 levels as described in the notice. Key experience requirements include:

• GL‑07: 1 year of specialized experience at GL/GS‑05 level (e.g., assisting investigations, writing reports, analyzing data).
• GL‑09: 1 year of specialized experience at GL/GS‑07 level (e.g., assisting investigations, briefing, prosecutorial support).
• GS‑11: 1 year of specialized experience at GL/GS‑09 level (e.g., conducting investigations, developing operational plans, undercover work).

Experience may be substituted by education and the combined percentage method (experience + graduate education) must equal at least 100%.

Additional educational notes:
Graduate degrees may substitute experience;
Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) considered for recent graduates; foreign education may be accepted if comparable.

• Appointment:
  Schedule B, excepted service. Potential conversion to permanent career position in 3–4 years.
• Trial period: 1–2 years; performance reviewed against agency needs and public interest.
• Availability:
  Unscheduled work, overtime, irregular schedules, and weekends/holidays.
• Due to firearms proficiency requirement, applicants must be authorized to carry and maintain proficiency.
• Medical:
  Moderate to arduous physical exertion; mandatory pre‑employment exam.
• Relocation:
  Full relocation expenses for transfers from another federal position; limited expenses for new federal hires.

As a federal employee, you gain a comprehensive benefits package for yourself and family. Contact the hiring agency for specific benefits information.

For more information about Special Agent positions, visit Talk to a Recruiter or access the DEA Special Agent careers site.

This notice is subject to change and does not constitute a binding offer. All applicants must meet the legal qualifications and requirements listed above.