PUBLIC - DEA Criminal Investigators

Summary

THIS IS NOT AN OPEN JOB ANNOUNCEMENT**

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

A job announcement will be posted on USAJobs on April 20th, July 20th, and October 19th, 2026.

PLEASE READ THE DUTIES AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SECTIONS. For more information or questions about Special Agent positions, please visit Talk to a Recruiter.

• 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.

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

There are four (4) evaluation phases used to determine the applicants who are best qualified for the position. Applicants MUST be available to complete all phases of the Special Agent applicant process. Failure to successfully complete/pass any of the screening processes will result in the applicant being disqualified and removed from consideration.

• Phase 1: Physical Task Assessment (PTA) – the first assessment to evaluate present ability to participate in basic agent training. Candidates are encouraged to view the PTA video to understand protocols required to pass the PTA.
• Phase 2: Proctored Testing – candidates who complete Phase 1 receive an invitation to schedule a proctored writing assessment. Assessments measure attention to detail, memory, teamwork, problem solving, decision making.
• Phase 3: Basic Qualification Review – resume and supporting documents are reviewed to determine whether candidates meet minimum qualifications and eligibility requirements.
• Phase 4: Structured Interview – candidates who pass Phase 3 are scheduled for a structured interview evaluating teamwork, interpersonal skills, problem solving, oral communication, decision making/judgement, self‑management, and flexibility.

Current or former 1811 applicants who have successfully completed a Federal Criminal Investigation training program through another federal law enforcement agency may be considered for an abbreviated hiring process.

The agency is prioritizing filling positions in border locations. Location assignments will ultimately be determined based on agency needs.

Applicants who possess proficiency in Spanish are strongly encouraged to apply. Spanish language proficiency may be assessed during the hiring process and may require a language assessment.

Applicants who have not completed previous federal law enforcement training through another agency must attend and complete a 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 (FLETC/CITP transcripts must be attached).

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Must obtain and maintain a Top‑Secret security clearance.
• Must sign a mobility agreement to accept relocation to any DEA location.
• Completion of a pre‑employment medical clearance and annual medical examination required.
• A full‑scope pre‑employment polygraph is required.
• Selective Service registration required for eligible males.
• Age 21‑36 (unless preference eligible for veterans or federal civilian law enforcement retirement).
• Pass E‑Verify employment verification check.
• Serve a 1‑year or 2‑year trial period as appropriate.
• Must possess a valid state driver’s license.
• Subject to random drug testing.
• Must complete a 16‑week basic agent training (BAT) course at DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

All applicants must meet one of the basic qualification requirements for…