Intelligence Research Specialist

Summary

These positions are located in the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). They may be filled in multiple geographic locations nationwide and relocations may be required.

As an Intelligence Research Specialist, your typical work assignments may include preliminary research, analysis, and evaluation of raw intelligence data for large projects and studies. Typical tasks include:

• Receive and analyze highly specialized, sensitive intelligence information from multiple sources.
• Collect and evaluate information and provide recommendations regarding vulnerabilities.
• Monitor projects, plan, organize, and perform research and analysis of complex issues; provide guidance to lower‑graded employees.
• Plan, implement, and maintain databases to store and process technical information.
• Collect, review, interpret, evaluate, and integrate large volumes of complex information from multiple sources pertaining to interrelated topic areas.

Conditions of employment include:

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Employment subject to background investigation; must obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Incumbent subject to random drug testing.
• Must pass E‑Verify; see E‑Verify for details.
• Male applicants born after 12/31/59 must register with Selective Service.
• Required to serve a 1‑year probationary period (or 2‑year trial as appropriate).
• All selected applicants must submit urinalysis for illegal drug screening prior to appointment.
• Must complete the 11‑week Basic Intelligence Research Specialist Training Course at DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
• Must sign a mobility agreement to accept relocation to any DEA location.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
• Polygraph may be required; prior polygraph reciprocity possible.

Applicants must meet all required qualifications by the closing date.

GS‑12: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS‑11 grade level, performing tasks such as receiving and analyzing sensitive intelligence information, planning research, collecting and evaluating intelligence, and developing actionable recommendations.

GS‑13: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS‑12 grade level, performing tasks such as reviewing, interpreting, and integrating large volumes of intelligence from multiple sources; maintaining technical/operational databases; conducting strategic intelligence collection; and developing evaluation methods.

Additionally, applicants must meet at least one of the following:

• Highly technical skills in computer engineering, systems engineering, or computer science, including geospatial visualization, GIS, data aggregation and analysis, and digital/social media exploitation.
• Foreign language aptitude with certification from an independent source at a satisfactory professional proficiency level or higher in reading, writing, and comprehension.

Successful completion of initial background investigation, including polygraph, and periodic reinvestigations is required in addition to adherence to DEA Standards of Conduct.

Training:
The Basic Intelligence Research Specialist Training Program (11 weeks) at DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

Mobility:
Reassignment to any DEA facility is required; a signed mobility agreement is a condition of employment.

Drug policy:
All applicants must disclose current and past drug usage; past drug use is assessed individually.

Reasonable accommodation:
Applicants may request accommodations for assessments; requests must be received before the closing of the JOA.

Probation: A 1‑year probationary period (or 2‑year trial period) evaluates performance and fit with public interest; termination occurs if not certified as meeting standards.

Multiple positions may be filled; applicants may be referred to similar openings in other divisions.