Drug Enforcement Administration
PUBLIC NOTICE- DEA Criminal Investigators
Drug Enforcement Administration, Columbia, South Carolina, us, 29228
Public Notice – DEA Criminal Investigators
This is a public notice for Drug Enforcement Administration Criminal Investigator GL-1811-7/9/11 positions open to U.S. Citizens. A job announcement will be posted on USAJobs on January 12 and April 6, 2026. Please read Additional Information and How You Will Be Evaluated sections. For more information about Special Agent positions, please visit Talk to a Recruiter.
Responsibilities
Conduct complex criminal investigations targeting narcotics and drug-related activities.
Prepare comprehensive and succinct criminal investigative reports 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, execution of search warrants, and a variety of other means.
Testify on behalf of the Federal government in court or before grand juries.
Additional duties may be assigned based upon an individual's unique knowledge, skills, and/or experience.
Basic Agent Training Applicants who have not completed previous federal law enforcement training through another federal law enforcement agency must attend and complete a 16‑week residential training program. 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 (FCIT 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 DEA location.
This position requires completion of a pre‑employment medical clearance and annual medical examination.
A full‑scope pre‑employment polygraph is required. 1811 applicants who have previously completed and passed a polygraph examination with their current or former agency may seek reciprocity.
Selective Service: Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service.
Applicant must be at least 21 years of age and not older than 36 at the time of appointment, unless you are a preference eligible veteran or a current or previously served in a Federal civilian law enforcement retirement covered position.
Successfully pass the E‑Verify employment verification check.
Selectee will be required to serve a 1‑year or 2‑year trial period, as appropriate.
This position requires a valid state driver’s license.
Incumbent is subject to random drug testing.
Basic Agent Training Requirement: If selected, individuals must successfully complete a 16 to 20‑week basic agent training (BAT) course at the DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
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 (FCIT transcripts must be attached).
Qualifications Applicants must meet the qualification requirements described below by the closing of this announcement. For more information on eligibility requirements see: DEA Employment Eligibility.
GL‑07 Level
Must have one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS‑05 level that includes performing:
Assisting in investigations of alleged or suspected violations of law.
Writing reports of findings, results, or accomplishments for information or action relating to 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
The experience requirement for the GS‑7 level may be met by one full year of graduate level education in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to successfully perform the duties of the position.
Superior Academic Achievement (SAA)
Applicants who have completed (or expect to complete within 9 months) all the requirements for a bachelor’s degree with Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) in a course of study that directly reflects the job‑related competencies necessary to successfully perform the duties of the position. Courses should emphasize development of skills in teamwork, problem‑solving, decision‑making, flexibility, oral communication, interpersonal relations, and/or self‑management.
Eligibility for Upcoming Graduates
Senior students must provide documentation confirming an expected graduation date and, prior to entry on duty, evidence that they maintained required grades during their senior year.
Failure to provide proof of graduation within the required timeframe or maintain required grades may result in removal from consideration.
SAA is based on 1) class standing, 2) grade‑point average, or 3) honor society membership.
Class Standing: Applicants must be in the upper third of the graduating class.
Grade Point Average: 3.0 or higher (4‑year or final 2 years) or 3.5 or higher (required courses during final 2 years).
Election to membership in a national scholastic honor society recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies.
Combination of Education and Experience
A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. The percent is calculated by adding the education percentage (semester hours ÷ 18) to the experience percentage (months ÷ 12).
GL‑09 Level
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 information or action relating to 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 and/or testifying or presenting evidence for court, legislative, or administrative proceedings.
Substitution of Education for Experience
Master’s or equivalent graduate degree or 2‑full years of progressively higher‑level graduate education leading to such a degree, or LL.B. or J.D.
Combination of Education and Experience
Same computed‑percent method: education beyond first year.
GS‑11 Level
Conducting or supporting federal criminal investigations in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies.
Developing operational plans and determining investigative priorities of federal cases.
Operating undercover, conducting surveillance operations, participating in raids, seizures, and arrests, etc.
Developing and eliciting information from confidential sources.
Interviewing, and interrogating persons suspected of violations of law.
Organizing evidence for presentation to prosecution officials and testifying in court.
Substitution of Education for Experience
Have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or three years of progressively higher‑level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or LL.M.
Combination of Education and Experience
Same computed‑percent method: education beyond second year.
Additional Information Appointments will be made in accordance with 5 CFR 213.3210 (Schedule B), Excepted Service Appointments. Individuals appointed via the Schedule B authority may be converted to permanent Career appointments at the third or fourth year from the initial appointment.
Probationary/Trial Period: You may be required to serve a 1 to 2‑year trial period. Upon completion, employment will be terminated unless you receive certification that continued employment advances the public interest.
Special Agents may be required to work substantial overtime and irregular schedules, including weekends and holidays. Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) is provided to ensure availability.
Medical Requirements: Required moderate to arduous physical exertion, firearms, etc. Must pass pre‑employment medical examination.
Firearms Requirement: Must be authorized to carry a firearm and maintain proficiency. Must verify no convictions of domestic violence misdemeanors.
Employment Drug Policy: Must disclose current and past drug usage; circumstances assessed on case‑by‑case basis.
Mobility Agreement: Position subject to reassignment to any domestic DEA facility.
Relocation Expenses: Full relocation expenses will be paid for individuals transferring from another Federal position. New federal employees responsible for remaining expenses not covered by DEA policies.
Recruitment Incentives may be offered.
Benefits A federal employee receives comprehensive benefits that include health insurance, retirement, leave, etc. Eligibility depends on full‑time, part‑time, or intermittent status. Contact the hiring agency for specific benefits offered.
Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type Part‑time
Job Function Other, Information Technology, and Management
Industries Law Enforcement
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Responsibilities
Conduct complex criminal investigations targeting narcotics and drug-related activities.
Prepare comprehensive and succinct criminal investigative reports 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, execution of search warrants, and a variety of other means.
Testify on behalf of the Federal government in court or before grand juries.
Additional duties may be assigned based upon an individual's unique knowledge, skills, and/or experience.
Basic Agent Training Applicants who have not completed previous federal law enforcement training through another federal law enforcement agency must attend and complete a 16‑week residential training program. 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 (FCIT 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 DEA location.
This position requires completion of a pre‑employment medical clearance and annual medical examination.
A full‑scope pre‑employment polygraph is required. 1811 applicants who have previously completed and passed a polygraph examination with their current or former agency may seek reciprocity.
Selective Service: Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service.
Applicant must be at least 21 years of age and not older than 36 at the time of appointment, unless you are a preference eligible veteran or a current or previously served in a Federal civilian law enforcement retirement covered position.
Successfully pass the E‑Verify employment verification check.
Selectee will be required to serve a 1‑year or 2‑year trial period, as appropriate.
This position requires a valid state driver’s license.
Incumbent is subject to random drug testing.
Basic Agent Training Requirement: If selected, individuals must successfully complete a 16 to 20‑week basic agent training (BAT) course at the DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
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 (FCIT transcripts must be attached).
Qualifications Applicants must meet the qualification requirements described below by the closing of this announcement. For more information on eligibility requirements see: DEA Employment Eligibility.
GL‑07 Level
Must have one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS‑05 level that includes performing:
Assisting in investigations of alleged or suspected violations of law.
Writing reports of findings, results, or accomplishments for information or action relating to 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
The experience requirement for the GS‑7 level may be met by one full year of graduate level education in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to successfully perform the duties of the position.
Superior Academic Achievement (SAA)
Applicants who have completed (or expect to complete within 9 months) all the requirements for a bachelor’s degree with Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) in a course of study that directly reflects the job‑related competencies necessary to successfully perform the duties of the position. Courses should emphasize development of skills in teamwork, problem‑solving, decision‑making, flexibility, oral communication, interpersonal relations, and/or self‑management.
Eligibility for Upcoming Graduates
Senior students must provide documentation confirming an expected graduation date and, prior to entry on duty, evidence that they maintained required grades during their senior year.
Failure to provide proof of graduation within the required timeframe or maintain required grades may result in removal from consideration.
SAA is based on 1) class standing, 2) grade‑point average, or 3) honor society membership.
Class Standing: Applicants must be in the upper third of the graduating class.
Grade Point Average: 3.0 or higher (4‑year or final 2 years) or 3.5 or higher (required courses during final 2 years).
Election to membership in a national scholastic honor society recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies.
Combination of Education and Experience
A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. The percent is calculated by adding the education percentage (semester hours ÷ 18) to the experience percentage (months ÷ 12).
GL‑09 Level
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 information or action relating to 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 and/or testifying or presenting evidence for court, legislative, or administrative proceedings.
Substitution of Education for Experience
Master’s or equivalent graduate degree or 2‑full years of progressively higher‑level graduate education leading to such a degree, or LL.B. or J.D.
Combination of Education and Experience
Same computed‑percent method: education beyond first year.
GS‑11 Level
Conducting or supporting federal criminal investigations in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies.
Developing operational plans and determining investigative priorities of federal cases.
Operating undercover, conducting surveillance operations, participating in raids, seizures, and arrests, etc.
Developing and eliciting information from confidential sources.
Interviewing, and interrogating persons suspected of violations of law.
Organizing evidence for presentation to prosecution officials and testifying in court.
Substitution of Education for Experience
Have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or three years of progressively higher‑level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or LL.M.
Combination of Education and Experience
Same computed‑percent method: education beyond second year.
Additional Information Appointments will be made in accordance with 5 CFR 213.3210 (Schedule B), Excepted Service Appointments. Individuals appointed via the Schedule B authority may be converted to permanent Career appointments at the third or fourth year from the initial appointment.
Probationary/Trial Period: You may be required to serve a 1 to 2‑year trial period. Upon completion, employment will be terminated unless you receive certification that continued employment advances the public interest.
Special Agents may be required to work substantial overtime and irregular schedules, including weekends and holidays. Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) is provided to ensure availability.
Medical Requirements: Required moderate to arduous physical exertion, firearms, etc. Must pass pre‑employment medical examination.
Firearms Requirement: Must be authorized to carry a firearm and maintain proficiency. Must verify no convictions of domestic violence misdemeanors.
Employment Drug Policy: Must disclose current and past drug usage; circumstances assessed on case‑by‑case basis.
Mobility Agreement: Position subject to reassignment to any domestic DEA facility.
Relocation Expenses: Full relocation expenses will be paid for individuals transferring from another Federal position. New federal employees responsible for remaining expenses not covered by DEA policies.
Recruitment Incentives may be offered.
Benefits A federal employee receives comprehensive benefits that include health insurance, retirement, leave, etc. Eligibility depends on full‑time, part‑time, or intermittent status. Contact the hiring agency for specific benefits offered.
Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type Part‑time
Job Function Other, Information Technology, and Management
Industries Law Enforcement
#J-18808-Ljbffr