PUBLIC NOTICE- DEA Criminal Investigators

To qualify for a DEA Criminal Investigator position at the GL-07 level.. You must meet one of the following: one year of specialized experience equivalent to GL/GS-05.. One full year of graduate-level education.. Or Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) from a bachelor's degree. For GL-09, you need one year of specialized experience at GL/GS-07 or a master's degree. U.S. Citizenship is required.

• U.S. citizenship required.
• Must be at least 21 years old and not older than 36 at time of application (exceptions for preference-eligible veterans and current/former federal law enforcement retirement-covered positions).
• For GL-07: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GL/GS-05, including assisting in investigations, writing reports, and researching data.
• OR one full year of graduate-level education in a relevant field.
• OR Superior Academic Achievement (SAA): bachelor's degree with class standing in upper third, GPA 3.0 or higher, or membership in a national honor society.
• For GL-09: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GL/GS-07, including assisting in investigations, collecting data, writing reports, and testifying.
• OR a master's degree or equivalent graduate degree (e.g., LL.B., J.D.).
• Combination of education and experience may qualify (compute percentages).
• Senior students expecting to graduate within 9 months may apply with documentation.
• Education must be accredited by a U.S. Department of Education recognized institution.

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

• Prepare complete and succinct criminal investigative reports.
• Prepare 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, and execution of search warrants.
• Testify on behalf of the federal government in court or before grand juries.
• Perform additional duties based on individual knowledge, skills, and experience.

Must be a U.S. citizen.

• Must obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance.
• Must sign a mobility agreement to relocate as needed.
• Must complete a pre-employment medical clearance and annual medical examination.
• Must pass a full-scope pre-employment polygraph (reciprocity possible for current/former 1811s).
• Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service.
• Must pass E-Verify employment verification.
• Must serve a 1- or 2-year trial period.
• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
• Subject to random drug testing.

Complete federal benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance.

• Retirement benefits under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with employer matching.
• Paid annual and sick leave.
• Potential for recruitment incentives and student loan repayment.
• Access to training and career development programs.

This public notice is for informational purposes only; you must apply when the live announcement is posted.

• Applicants must be available to complete all four evaluation phases.
• Current or former 1811 applicants who completed FCIT may qualify for a condensed 3-week DEA Special Agent Transition Program.
• Veterans with a compensable service-connected disability of at least 10% receive priority consideration.
• Selective Service registration required for males born after 12/31/59.
• E-Verify participation required.
• Trial period of 1 or 2 years.
• Random drug testing and annual medical exams required.
• Basic Agent Training is 16 weeks at Quantico, VA.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Justice, tasked with enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States. Its mission is to combat drug trafficking and reduce the availability of illicit drugs. The DEA's Special Agent Recruitment division seeks qualified individuals to serve as Criminal Investigators (Special Agents) who will conduct complex investigations, apprehend drug traffickers, and work with other agencies. This role is based in Springfield, VA, and offers a career in federal law enforcement with complete benefits and training.