PUBLIC - DEA Criminal Investigators

PUBLIC NOTICE – DEA Criminal Investigator

This is a public notice for Drug Enforcement Administration Criminal Investigator (GL-1811-7/9/11) positions open to U.S. Citizens.

Updated: A job announcement will be posted on USAJobs on January 12th and April 6th, 2026.

• Conduct complex criminal investigations targeting narcotics and drug related activities.
• Prepare comprehensive and succinct criminal 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.

Applicants who have not completed previous federal law enforcement training through another federal agency must attend and complete a 16‑week residential training program.

Current or former GL‑1811 applicants who have successfully completed a Federal Criminal Investigation training program through another federal agency may qualify for a 3‑week Special Agent Transition Program (FCIT transcripts must be attached).

• U.S. citizenship required.
• Must obtain and maintain a Top‑Secret security clearance.
• Must sign a mobility agreement confirming relocation to any location as required by the DEA.
• Position requires completion of a pre‑employment medical clearance and annual medical examination.
• A full‑scope pre‑employment polygraph is required.
• Selective Service registration or exemption for applicable males.
• Applicant must be at least 21 and not older than 36 unless a preference eligible veteran or current or former federal civilian law enforcement retirement covered position.
• Must pass E‑Verify employment verification check.
• Selection requires a 1‑year or 2‑year trial period for evaluation of fitness and public interest.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
• Subject to random drug testing.
• Basic Agent Training 16‑20 weeks at DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia if selected.

Applicants must meet the qualification requirements by the closing of this announcement and submit transcripts as required.

GL‑07 Level

• One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GL/GS‑05 level or pay band.
• Tasks include assisting in investigations, writing reports, researching and analyzing data from various sources, or a combination.
• Education substitution: one full year of graduate level education or superior academic achievement.
• Combination of education and experience may qualify if total percentage is at least 100%.

GL‑09 Level

• One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GL/GS‑07 level.
• Tasks include assisting investigations, collecting and analyzing data, writing reports, briefing, coordinating with court officials, assisting prosecutors, testifying or presenting evidence.
• Education substitution: master’s or equivalent graduate degree, 2 full years of graduate education, LL.B. or J.D., or similar.
• Combination of education and experience may qualify if total percentage is at least 100%.

GS‑11 Level

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GL/GS‑09 in the Federal service.
• Tasks include conducting federal criminal investigations, developing operational plans, undercover operations, surveillance, raids, seizures, interviewing, organizing evidence, and testifying.
• Education substitution:
  Ph.D. or equivalent, three years of graduate degree, LL.M., or similar.
• Combination of education and experience may qualify if total percentage is at least 100%.

• Appointments may be made in accordance with 5 CFR 213.3210 (Schedule
  
  B) and may convert to a career appointment after 3 or 4 years.
• Probationary/Trial period evaluation criteria include performance, conduct, agency needs, and public interest.
• Special agents may be required to work substantial overtime, irregular schedules, and must remain readily available.
• Medical requirements include moderate to arduous physical exertion, firearms proficiency, and absence of disqualifying conditions.
• Weapons requirement: authorized to carry a firearm and maintain proficiency, subject to 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9).
• Employment drug policy: disclosure of past drug usage; assessed on a case‑by‑case basis.

A federal employee status provides a comprehensive benefits package for the employee and family, including health, pension, disability, and leave benefits. Contact the hiring agency for specific benefits information.