Criminal Investigator- Special Agent

Summary

TOUGH WORK. VITAL MISSION. Challenge yourself! You have the power to help combat drug trafficking. Be a part of DEA! It's tough work, but a vital mission. Whatever your background or expertise, your work at DEA will be tremendously rewarding because it will have a daily impact on national security and the quality of life of all Americans.

Please read the Additional Information and How you will be evaluated sections before applying.

• Conduct complex criminal investigations targeting narcotics and drug‑related activities.
• Prepare comprehensive and succinct criminal investigative reports and give 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 other means.
• Testify on behalf of the federal government in court or before grand juries.
• Additional duties may be assigned based on individual knowledge, skills, and/or experience.

Applicants who have not completed previous federal law enforcement training must attend a 16‑week residential training program. Current or former 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.
• Sign a mobility agreement acknowledging relocation to any DEA location as required.
• Complete a pre‑employment medical clearance and annual medical examination.
• Full‑scope pre‑employment polygraph required.
• Register or be exempt from Selective Service (males born after 12/31/59).
• Age 21–36 at the time of appointment, unless a preference‑eligible veteran or national civilian law‑enforcement retirement holder.
• Pass E‑Verify employment verification check.
• Serve a 1‑year or 2‑year trial period.
• Maintain a valid state driver’s license.
• Subject to random drug testing.
• Complete the 16‑week Basic Agent Training course at DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.

Applicants must meet one of the basic qualification requirements described below for this position.

GL‑07 Level

• One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS‑05 level in the federal service, including assisting in investigations of alleged or suspected violations of law; writing reports of findings; and researching, collecting, and analyzing data from a variety of sources.

SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE

• One full year of graduate‑level education in a field demonstrating the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the duties of the position.

SUA (Superior Academic Achievement)

• Graduates with SAA in a field directly reflecting required competencies.
• Senior students expected to graduate within nine (9) months may be considered; must provide documentation of enrollment and GPA above required thresholds (3.0–3.5).
• Class standing in the upper third and membership in a national scholastic honor society also considered.

Combination of Education and Experience

• Computed percentage of requirements at least 100%; calculate by dividing total months of experience by 12 and adding the percentage of graduate semester hours divided by 18.

GL‑09 Level

• One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS‑07 level, including assisting in investigations; collecting and analyzing data; writing reports and briefings; meeting or corresponding with court officials; and assisting prosecutors.

SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE (GL‑09)

• Master’s degree or equivalent graduate degree; or two (2) full years of graduate education leading to such a degree; or LL.B. or J.D.

GS‑11 Level

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS‑09 level, including conducting or supporting federal criminal investigations; developing operational plans; operating undercover; developing confidential sources; interviewing; and presenting evidence in court.

SUBSTITUTION…