PUBLIC NOTICE- DEA Criminal Investigators
About the role
As a DEA Special Agent, you will work as part of an elite criminal investigative team that transforms the power of your talent into action, making a difference for the security and well-being of our nation and the world every day.
Responsibilities
- Conduct complex criminal investigations targeting narcotics and drug-related activities
- Prepare comprehensive and succinct criminal investigative reports and 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
- Perform additional duties as assigned based on unique knowledge, skills, and/or experience
Applicant Availability
There are four evaluation phases used to determine 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 or pass any screening process will result in disqualification and removal from consideration.
- Phase 1: Physical Task Assessment (PTA)
The PTA is the first assessment required to evaluate your ability to participate in the strenuous physical activities required during basic agent training. View the PTA video to understand the protocols required to pass.
- Phase 2: Proctored Testing
Candidates who successfully complete the PTA will receive an email invitation to schedule an appointment to complete Phase 2 at a proctored testing center. Assessments measure the following competencies: Attention to Detail, Memory, Teamwork, Problem Solving, Decision Making.
- Phase 3: Basic Qualification Review
Candidates who successfully complete the PTA and Written Assessments will have their resume and supporting documents reviewed to determine whether they meet minimum qualification and eligibility requirements. Errors or omissions may impact eligibility.
- Phase 4: Structured Interview
Candidates who pass Phase 3 will be contacted to schedule an appointment to complete a structured interview. A panel will evaluate candidates on: 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.
Location Availability
The agency is currently prioritizing the filling of positions in border locations, and location availability is limited. While every effort will be made to accommodate preferences, location assignments will ultimately be determined based on agency needs.
Spanish Language Skill
Applicants who possess proficiency in Spanish (speaking, reading, and writing) are strongly encouraged to apply. Spanish language skills are highly desirable in support of DEA's mission to disrupt and dismantle transnational criminal organizations, particularly in investigations involving Latin America, the Southern Border, and international partnerships. Proficiency may be assessed during the hiring process.
Basic Agent Training
Applicants who have not completed previous federal law enforcement training must attend and complete a 16-week residential training program at the DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
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 (FLETC/CITP). Transcripts must be attached.
Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship required
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance
- Must sign a mobility agreement confirming understanding and agreement to accept relocation to any location depending on DEA needs
- Must complete a pre-employment medical clearance and annual medical examination
- Full-scope pre-employment polygraph required; reciprocity may be sought for prior polygraph completion
- Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service
- Must be at least 21 years of age and not older than 36 at the time of application, unless a preference eligible veteran or a current/former Federal civilian law enforcement retirement covered position employee
- Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check
- Must serve a 1-year or 2-year trial period
- Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license
- Subject to random drug testing
Qualifications
GL-07 Level
- One 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, results, or accomplishments for law enforcement activities and/or court cases
- Researching, collecting, and analyzing data from a variety of sources relating to investigations
- 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
- Superior Academic Achievement (SAA): Applicants who have completed (or expect to complete within 9 months) all requirements for a bachelor's degree with SAA in a course of study that directly reflects job-related competencies. Courses should emphasize teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, flexibility, oral communication, interpersonal relations, and/or self-management.
SAA is based on:
- Class standing: Upper third of the graduating class
- Grade Point Average: 3.0 or higher (based on 4 years or final 2 years), 3.5 or higher (based on required major courses in final 2 years)
- Election to membership in a national scholastic honor society recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies
Senior students currently enrolled may be considered based on grades at the time of application, with proof of graduation and maintained grades required prior to entry on duty.
- Combination of Education and Experience: A combination totaling at least 100% (e.g., months of experience divided by 12 plus semester hours of graduate education divided by 18)
GL-09 Level
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS-07 level in the Federal service, including:
- Assisting in investigations of alleged or suspected violations of law
- Collecting and analyzing data from a variety of sources relating to investigations
- Writing reports and conducting briefings of findings, results, or accomplishments for law enforcement activities and/or court cases
- Meeting or corresponding with court officials and law enforcement personnel to discuss case-related materials
- Assisting prosecuting attorneys in preparation of technical aspects of cases
- Testifying or presenting evidence for court, legislative, or administrative proceedings
- Substitution of Education for Experience: Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR two full years of progressively higher-level graduate education