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Drug Enforcement Administration

Criminal Investigator- Special Agent

Drug Enforcement Administration, Springfield, Virginia, us, 22161

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Summary

At the DEA, you will work as a DEA Special Agent in an elite criminal investigative team, utilizing your skills to investigate and disrupt drug trafficking activities. This role offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact on national security and improve the quality of life for all Americans.

Duties

Conduct complex criminal investigations targeting narcotics and drug‑related activities.

Prepare comprehensive investigative reports and deliver briefings for senior personnel teammate federal, state, and local agencies.

Identify and apprehend drug traffickers and arrest individuals involved in drug offenses.

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 experience.

Basic Agent Training Applicants who have not completed prior federal law enforcement training must attend and complete a 16‑week residential training program. Qualified 1811 applicants who have completed a federal criminal investigation program may qualify for a 3‑week special agent transition program (associate FCIT transcripts).

Requirements

U.S. citizenship required.

Obtain and maintain a Top‑Secret security clearance.

Sign a mobility agreement and accept relocation to any location as needed.

Conclude pre‑employment medical clearance and annual exams.

Complete a full‑scope pre‑employment polygraph (reciprocity available for 1811 applicants).

Register for or be exempt from Selective Service if applicable.

Age 21–36 at appointment unless eligible veteran or previous federal civilian law enforcement retirement holder.

Pass E‑Verify employment verification check.

Serve a 1‑ or 2‑year trial period with evaluation of continued employment.

Maintain a valid state driver’s license.

Undergo random drug testing.

Complete the 16‑week Basic Agent Training at the DEA Training Academy, Quantico, Virginia.

Qualifications Applicants must meet one of the basic qualification requirements described below. Qualifications are segmented by level (GL‑07, GL‑09, GS‑11). Below is an abbreviated summary of the key requirements.

GL‑07 : One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GL/GS‑05 or pay band, including assistance in investigations, report writing, and data analysis. Education can substitute one year of graduate education, or Superior Academic Achievement (top‑third class standing, GPA ≥3.0 or 3.5, or honor society membership). Combination of education and experience also acceptable if total percentage ≥ 100%.

GL‑09 : One year of experience equivalent to GL/GS‑07, comprising investigation assistance, data analysis, report writing, briefing, courtroom testimony, or cooperation with prosecutors. Education substitution available for a master’s degree, two years of graduate study, LL.B. or J.D. Combination of educationĝ & experience may meet the 100% threshold.

GS‑11 : One year of specialized experience equivalent to GL/GS‑09 demonstrating investigative support, operational planning, undercover work, surveillance, raid participation, source management, interviewing, evidentiary organization, or courtroom testimony. Ph.D., LL.M., or three years of graduate study can substitute experience.

Additional Information - The position has been exempted from the federal civilian hiring freeze. - Appointments will be made under 5 CFR 213.3210 (Schedule B). - Probationary/Trial Period: 1–2 years with performance evaluation. Successful completion may lead to permanent career appointment. - Law Enforcement Availability: Overtime and irregular work; LEAP compensation available. - Physical Fitness: Pre‑employment medical exam required; firearms proficiency; no disqualifying medical conditions. - Employment Drug Policy: Disclosure and case‑by‑case assessment. - Mobility agreement and relocation considerations discussed in detail during hiring.

Legal Notice This announcement is equal opportunity and no discrimination is tolerated. All applicants will be evaluated on an equal footing.

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