PUBLIC - DEA Criminal Investigators

Public Notice – DEA Criminal Investigators

Summary

This public notice announces DEA Criminal Investigator positions open to U.S. Citizens. A job announcement will be posted on USAJobs on January 12th and April 6th, 2026.

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

Applicants who have not completed previous federal law enforcement training through another federal law enforcement 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 through another federal law enforcement agency may qualify for a 3‑week Special Agent Transition Program (FCIT transcripts must be attached).

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top‑Secret security clearance.
• Sign a mobility agreement confirming willingness to accept relocation to any location.
• Completion of a pre‑employment medical clearance and annual medical examination.
• Full‑scope pre‑employment polygraph required.
• Selectee will be required to serve a 1‑year or 2‑year trial period.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
• Subject to random drug testing.
• Must successfully complete a 16‑ to 20‑week basic agent training course at the DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

GL‑07 Level

• One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS‑05 level or pay band in the Federal service.
• Assisting in investigations of alleged or suspected violations of law; writing reports of findings, results, or accomplishments; researching, collecting and analyzing data from a variety of sources; or providing a graduate‑level education equivalent described below.

Substitution of Education for Experience

A one‑year graduate‑level education may satisfy the experience requirement, or a higher education attainment may qualify under the GL‑07 substitution provisions.

Superior Academic Achievement (SAA)

Applicants who have completed a bachelor’s degree with Superior Academic Achievement in a course of study directly reflecting the required competencies. Senior students eligible upon expected graduation within 9 months of the closing date, meeting grades and class standing criteria.

Combination of Education and Experience

Education and experience may be combined so that the computed percentage of the requirements equals at least 100 %.

GL‑09 Level

• One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS‑07 level or pay band in the Federal service.
• Assisting in investigations of alleged or suspected violations of law; collecting and analyzing data from a variety of sources; writing reports and conducting briefings; meeting or corresponding with court officials and law enforcement personnel; assisting prosecuting attorneys in preparation of technical aspects of cases; testifying or presenting evidence for court, legislative, or administrative proceedings; or providing graduate‑level education equivalent described below.

GS‑11 Level

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS‑09 level.
• Conducting or supporting federal criminal investigations; developing operational plans; operating undercover, surveillance, raids, seizures; developing and eliciting information from confidential sources; interviewing, interrogating; organizing evidence and testifying in court; or providing doctoral‑level education equivalent.

• Appointments pursuant to 5 CFR 213.3210 (Schedule B). Trial period of 1‑to‑2 years.
• Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP).
• Medical requirements: pre‑employment medical examination, potential physical exertion.
• Firearms requirement: authorized to carry a firearm and maintain proficiency.
• Employment drug policy: disclosure of drug usage.
• Relocation expenses: full relocation for transferring from another Federal position.

Federal employee benefits package available to full‑time employees. Contact the hiring agency for specific benefits offered.