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
• Additional duties may be assigned based upon 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/pass any screening process will result in disqualification and removal from consideration.

• Phase 1: Physical Task Assessment (PTA) – Evaluates your ability to participate in strenuous physical activities required during basic agent training. A PTA video is available to review protocols.
• Phase 2: Proctored Testing – Candidates who pass the PTA will be invited to complete a Writing Assessment at a proctored testing center. Assessments measure competencies including attention to detail, memory, teamwork, problem solving, and decision making.
• Phase 3: Basic Qualification Review – Resumes and supporting documents are reviewed to determine minimum qualification and eligibility. Errors or omissions may impact eligibility.
• Phase 4: Structured Interview – Candidates who pass Phase 3 will complete 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 completed a Federal Criminal Investigation training program through another federal law enforcement agency may qualify for an abbreviated hiring process.

Location Availability

The agency is prioritizing positions in border locations, and location availability is limited. Location assignments are determined based on agency needs.

Spanish Language Skill

Proficiency in Spanish (speaking, reading, and writing) is strongly encouraged. Spanish language skills may be assessed during the hiring process and may support investigations involving Latin America, the Southern Border, and international partnerships.

Basic Agent Training

Applicants who have not completed prior 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 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
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance
• Must sign a mobility agreement agreeing to accept relocation based on DEA needs
• Completion of 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 employee
• Successfully pass E-Verify employment verification
• Serve a 1-year or 2-year trial period
• Possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license
• Subject to random drug testing
• Must successfully complete a 16-week basic agent training (BAT) course at the DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia

Qualifications

Applicants must meet one of the following basic qualification requirements for the GL-07 or GL-09 level.

GL-07 Level

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS-05 level, 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 various sources related to investigations
• OR One full year of graduate-level education in a field demonstrating relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities
• OR Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) with a bachelor’s degree completed or expected within 9 months, meeting specific GPA or class standing criteria
• OR A combination of education and experience totaling at least 100%

GL-09 Level

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS-07 level, including:
  • Assisting in investigations of alleged or suspected violations of law
  • Collecting and analyzing data from various sources related to investigations
  • Writing reports and conducting briefings of findings, results, or accomplishments for law enforcement activities and/or court cases
  • Meeting 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
• OR A master’s or equivalent graduate degree, or two full years of progressively higher-level graduate education