The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is hiring Criminal Investigators (Special Agents) for 2026. This is your opportunity to join an elite team combating drug trafficking and making a real impact on national security.
Job Title: Criminal Investigator – Special Agent (Series 1811)
Announcement Number: BA2026-3B
Open Period: January 12, 2026 – January 20, 2026 (or until 2,500 applications are received)
Salary: $48,854 – $82,938 per year (plus locality pay and 25% Law Enforcement Availability Pay – LEAP)
Grade Levels: GS-7 to GS-11 (Promotion potential to GS-13)
Locations: Many vacancies across DEA U.S. locations
Apply Now on USAJOBS: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/853666200
This DEA Special Agent job is open to the public and offers a vital mission: protecting Americans from drug-related threats.
Why Become a DEA Special Agent in 2026?
The DEA’s mission is tough but essential. As a Special Agent, you’ll be on the front lines fighting drug trafficking organizations that threaten communities across the U.S. This federal criminal investigator role combines investigative expertise, fieldwork, and collaboration with other agencies.
Key highlights:
- Rewarding Impact: Your work directly contributes to national security and public safety.
- Competitive Compensation: Base salary plus locality adjustments and 25% LEAP for availability.
- Career Growth: Promotion potential up to GS-13.
- Training: Comprehensive Basic Agent Training at Quantico, VA (16 weeks, or shorter for prior federal law enforcement).
This is one of the most sought-after DEA careers and federal law enforcement jobs for 2026.
Duties of a DEA Special Agent
As a DEA Criminal Investigator, your daily work will be dynamic and high-stakes:
- Conduct complex criminal investigations into narcotics and drug-related activities.
- Gather and analyze evidence through leads, seizures, arrests, and search warrants.
- Identify and apprehend drug traffickers.
- Prepare detailed investigative reports and deliver briefings to senior officials and partner agencies.
- Testify in court or before grand juries.
Additional duties may vary based on your skills and experience.
Qualifications and Requirements
To qualify for this DEA Special Agent position, you must meet strict criteria:
Age and Citizenship
- U.S. Citizen.
- At least 21 years old and no older than 36 at appointment (exceptions for veterans or prior federal law enforcement).
Security and Fitness
- Top Secret security clearance.
- Pass pre-employment polygraph, drug test, medical exam, and Physical Task Assessment (PTA).
- Valid driver’s license.
- Sign mobility agreement (willing to relocate anywhere based on DEA needs).
Experience/Education by Grade Level
| Grade | Requirements |
|---|---|
| GS-7 | 1 year specialized experience (e.g., assisting investigations) OR 1 year graduate education OR Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) with bachelor’s degree. |
| GS-9 | 1 year specialized experience (e.g., collecting/analyzing data, writing reports, testifying) OR Master’s degree OR 2 years graduate education. |
| GS-11 | 1 year specialized experience (e.g., conducting federal investigations, undercover operations, interrogations) OR Ph.D./3 years graduate education. |
Combinations of experience and education may qualify. See full details on OPM standards.
Prior federal law enforcement officers may qualify for abbreviated training.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide for USAJOBS
Applications must be submitted via USAJOBS. The announcement may close early after 2,500 applications—apply ASAP!
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare your resume (include detailed experience, dates, hours worked).
- Submit required documents: Transcripts (if using education), DD-214 (veterans), etc.
- Complete the online questionnaire.
- Pass evaluation phases: Qualifications review, PTA, polygraph, medical, etc.
Deadline: Applications open January 12, 2026. Don’t miss this window for DEA Special Agent recruitment 2026.
Benefits of Joining the DEA
- Federal benefits package (health, retirement, paid leave).
- Relocation expenses may be reimbursed.
- Law Enforcement Officer retirement coverage.
- Opportunity to serve in diverse locations across the U.S.
The DEA is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity.
Ready to take on this vital mission? Search for DEA Special Agent jobs or 1811 Criminal Investigator positions on USAJOBS today. This could be your chance to build a meaningful career in federal law enforcement.
Apply here: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/853666200