Drug Enforcement Administration
PUBLIC NOTICE- DEA Criminal Investigators
Drug Enforcement Administration, Cleveland, Ohio, us, 44101
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 12th and April 6th, 2026.
PLEASE READ THE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND HOW YOU WILL BE EVALUATED SECTIONS. Duties
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 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 that confirms understanding and agreement to accept relocation to any location depending on the needs of the DEA.
This position requires the completion of a pre-employment medical clearance and annual medical examination.
A full-scope pre-employment polygraph is required.
Selective Service registration or exemption required for males born after 12/31/59.
Applicant must be at least 21 years of age and not older than 36 at the time of appointment, unless 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 that the incumbent must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
Incumbent is subject to random drug testing.
Basic Agent Training Requirement: If selected, individuals are required to successfully complete a 16 to 20-week basic agent training (BAT) course held 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 all of the required qualification requirements described below by the closing of this announcement.
For The GL-07 Level Must have one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS-05 level or pay band in the Federal service that includes performing the following duties:
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 the development of skills in teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, flexibility, oral communication, interpersonal relations, and/or self-management.
Eligibility for Upcoming Graduates
Senior students who are currently enrolled in a degree program and expect to complete all graduation requirements within 9 months of the closing date of this announcement may be considered for a GL-7 appointment based on their grades at the time of application.
At the time of application, senior students must provide documentation confirming an expected graduation date.
Prior to entry on duty, provide evidence that they maintained the required grades during their senior year.
Failure to provide proof of graduation within the required timeframe or failure to maintain the required grades through their senior year may result in removal from consideration.
S.A.A. is based on class standing, grade-point average, or honor society membership.
Class Standing: Applicants must be in the upper third of the graduating class, based on completed courses.
Grade Point Average: Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher: based on 4 years of education or as computed based on courses completed during the final 2 years; or 3.5 or higher: based on the average of the required courses completed in the major field or the required courses in the major field completed during the final 2 years.
Election to membership in a national scholastic honor society: Applicants can be considered eligible based on membership in one of the national scholastic honor societies recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies.
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (GL-07) 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%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then, divide your semester hours of graduate education by 18. Add the two percentages. The total percentage must equal at least 100 percent to qualify.
For The GL-09 Level Must have one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS-07 level or pay band in the Federal service that includes performing the following duties:
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, 2-full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree, LL.B. or J.D., or (other as listed).
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (GL-09)
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%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then divide the total number of completed graduate semester hours (or equivalent) beyond the first year (total graduate semester hours minus 18) by 18. Add the two percentages.
For the GS-11 Level One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS-09 level in the Federal service that demonstrates your ability in the following:
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; and
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 equivalent doctoral degree or LL.M., if related.
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (GS-11)
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%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then divide the total number of completed graduate semester hours (or equivalent) beyond the second year (total graduate semester hours minus 36) by 18. Add the two percentages.
Additional information on the position qualification requirements are located in the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) Qualifications Standards Handbook.
Education If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements: Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Provide only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by recognized accrediting institutions.
Foreign Education: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. Provide evidence when applying.
PASS/FAIL COURSES: If more than 10 percent of your undergraduate coursework was taken on a pass/fail basis, your claim of superior academic achievement must be based upon class standing or membership in an honor society.
GRADUATE EDUCATION: One year of graduate education is considered to be the number of credit hours your graduate school has determined to represent one academic year of full-time study. If unavailable, 18 semester hours (or 27 quarter hours) are considered sufficient.
Appointments If selected, 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 As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1 to 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. Evaluation criteria may include performance, conduct, agency needs, organizational goals, and federal service efficiency.
Upon completion of your trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
Law Enforcement Availability Special Agents may be required to work substantial overtime and occasional irregular work schedules, including weekends and holidays. They must be readily accessible for unscheduled work. Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) compensates based on 25 percent of the respective grade's base salary.
Medical Requirements Requirements include moderate to arduous physical exertion involving walking and standing, use of firearms, and exposure to inclement weather. Applicants must pass a pre-employment medical examination. Any condition that poses a hazard is disqualifying.
Firearms Requirement Applicants must be authorized to carry a firearm and maintain proficiency. Positions are subject to the Lautenberg Amendment, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9). Applicants must verify no convictions for misdemeanor domestic violence.
Employment Drug Policy All DEA applicants are required to disclose current and past drug usage. Situations involving prior illegal or abused legal drugs are assessed case-by-case.
Mobility Agreement The position is subject to reassignment to any domestic DEA facility. Applicants must sign a mobility agreement as a condition of employment, ensuring family members support potential relocations.
Relocation Expenses Full relocation expenses will be paid for individuals transferring from another Federal position. New Federal employees may be responsible for expenses not covered by DEA policies.
Recruitment Incentives May be offered.
Multiple Positions Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
Additional information on Special Agent employment eligibilities, medical and physical requirements, and the hiring process is available on the DEA Special Agent careers site.
Benefits As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits designed to be rewarding. Eligibility depends on position type (full-time, part-time, intermittent). Contact the hiring agency for more information.
Seniority level Mid-Senior level
Employment type Part-time
Job function Other, Information Technology, and Management
Industries Law Enforcement
#J-18808-Ljbffr
A job announcement will be posted on USAJobs on January 12th and April 6th, 2026.
PLEASE READ THE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND HOW YOU WILL BE EVALUATED SECTIONS. Duties
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 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 that confirms understanding and agreement to accept relocation to any location depending on the needs of the DEA.
This position requires the completion of a pre-employment medical clearance and annual medical examination.
A full-scope pre-employment polygraph is required.
Selective Service registration or exemption required for males born after 12/31/59.
Applicant must be at least 21 years of age and not older than 36 at the time of appointment, unless 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 that the incumbent must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
Incumbent is subject to random drug testing.
Basic Agent Training Requirement: If selected, individuals are required to successfully complete a 16 to 20-week basic agent training (BAT) course held 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 all of the required qualification requirements described below by the closing of this announcement.
For The GL-07 Level Must have one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS-05 level or pay band in the Federal service that includes performing the following duties:
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 the development of skills in teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, flexibility, oral communication, interpersonal relations, and/or self-management.
Eligibility for Upcoming Graduates
Senior students who are currently enrolled in a degree program and expect to complete all graduation requirements within 9 months of the closing date of this announcement may be considered for a GL-7 appointment based on their grades at the time of application.
At the time of application, senior students must provide documentation confirming an expected graduation date.
Prior to entry on duty, provide evidence that they maintained the required grades during their senior year.
Failure to provide proof of graduation within the required timeframe or failure to maintain the required grades through their senior year may result in removal from consideration.
S.A.A. is based on class standing, grade-point average, or honor society membership.
Class Standing: Applicants must be in the upper third of the graduating class, based on completed courses.
Grade Point Average: Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher: based on 4 years of education or as computed based on courses completed during the final 2 years; or 3.5 or higher: based on the average of the required courses completed in the major field or the required courses in the major field completed during the final 2 years.
Election to membership in a national scholastic honor society: Applicants can be considered eligible based on membership in one of the national scholastic honor societies recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies.
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (GL-07) 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%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then, divide your semester hours of graduate education by 18. Add the two percentages. The total percentage must equal at least 100 percent to qualify.
For The GL-09 Level Must have one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS-07 level or pay band in the Federal service that includes performing the following duties:
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, 2-full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree, LL.B. or J.D., or (other as listed).
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (GL-09)
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%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then divide the total number of completed graduate semester hours (or equivalent) beyond the first year (total graduate semester hours minus 18) by 18. Add the two percentages.
For the GS-11 Level One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GL/GS-09 level in the Federal service that demonstrates your ability in the following:
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; and
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 equivalent doctoral degree or LL.M., if related.
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE (GS-11)
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%. To compute the percentage of the requirements, divide your total months of experience by 12. Then divide the total number of completed graduate semester hours (or equivalent) beyond the second year (total graduate semester hours minus 36) by 18. Add the two percentages.
Additional information on the position qualification requirements are located in the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) Qualifications Standards Handbook.
Education If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements: Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Provide only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by recognized accrediting institutions.
Foreign Education: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. Provide evidence when applying.
PASS/FAIL COURSES: If more than 10 percent of your undergraduate coursework was taken on a pass/fail basis, your claim of superior academic achievement must be based upon class standing or membership in an honor society.
GRADUATE EDUCATION: One year of graduate education is considered to be the number of credit hours your graduate school has determined to represent one academic year of full-time study. If unavailable, 18 semester hours (or 27 quarter hours) are considered sufficient.
Appointments If selected, 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 As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you may be required to serve a 1 to 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. Evaluation criteria may include performance, conduct, agency needs, organizational goals, and federal service efficiency.
Upon completion of your trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
Law Enforcement Availability Special Agents may be required to work substantial overtime and occasional irregular work schedules, including weekends and holidays. They must be readily accessible for unscheduled work. Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) compensates based on 25 percent of the respective grade's base salary.
Medical Requirements Requirements include moderate to arduous physical exertion involving walking and standing, use of firearms, and exposure to inclement weather. Applicants must pass a pre-employment medical examination. Any condition that poses a hazard is disqualifying.
Firearms Requirement Applicants must be authorized to carry a firearm and maintain proficiency. Positions are subject to the Lautenberg Amendment, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9). Applicants must verify no convictions for misdemeanor domestic violence.
Employment Drug Policy All DEA applicants are required to disclose current and past drug usage. Situations involving prior illegal or abused legal drugs are assessed case-by-case.
Mobility Agreement The position is subject to reassignment to any domestic DEA facility. Applicants must sign a mobility agreement as a condition of employment, ensuring family members support potential relocations.
Relocation Expenses Full relocation expenses will be paid for individuals transferring from another Federal position. New Federal employees may be responsible for expenses not covered by DEA policies.
Recruitment Incentives May be offered.
Multiple Positions Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
Additional information on Special Agent employment eligibilities, medical and physical requirements, and the hiring process is available on the DEA Special Agent careers site.
Benefits As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits designed to be rewarding. Eligibility depends on position type (full-time, part-time, intermittent). Contact the hiring agency for more information.
Seniority level Mid-Senior level
Employment type Part-time
Job function Other, Information Technology, and Management
Industries Law Enforcement
#J-18808-Ljbffr