Are you a highly skilled law-enforcement professional looking for a high-impact federal career? The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is actively recruiting Criminal Investigators (GS-1811-13) in Washington, DC with multiple vacancies available right now. This is a rare opportunity to provide executive protection for senior DOE leadership, conduct complex criminal investigations, and support national security missions under the Atomic Energy Act.
Applications close January 20, 2026 — only days left to apply!
Announcement: 26-EH-12861287-DE | Many vacancies | Permanent full-time | GS-13 ($117,962–$153,354 per year) | No prior federal experience required
Why Become a DOE Criminal Investigator?
As a Criminal Investigator in the Office of Environment, Health, Safety, and Security, you will:
- Deliver close executive protection for the Secretary of Energy and other senior officials
- Lead sensitive investigations involving threats to Cabinet-level officials and violations of federal law
- Coordinate site advances and protective operations with federal, state, and local law enforcement
- Be authorized to carry firearms and use force (including deadly force) when necessary
- Earn Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) — an additional 25% of base pay for unscheduled duty
This is not a typical investigator role — it combines protective services, criminal investigations, and continuity-of-operations responsibilities at the highest levels of government.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
You will spend your career doing mission-critical work, including:
- Providing 24/7 executive protection and emergency evacuation for DOE leadership
- Conducting and coordinating complex criminal investigations under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954
- Investigating threats against Cabinet officials and ensuring proper evidence handling
- Performing site advance work for the Secretary of Energy’s domestic and international travel
- Developing and leading special projects to improve protective policies and procedures
- Traveling up to 50% of the time (often 2–3 weeks per month)
Salary and Benefits
- 2026 GS-13 Pay (Washington-Baltimore-Arlington area): $117,962 – $153,354 per year + 25% LEAP
- Full federal benefits package (health insurance, TSP with 5% match, generous leave, pension)
- No remote or telework — duty station is Washington, DC
- Position is emergency-essential (required to report during national emergencies)
Qualifications and Requirements
Specialized Experience (must meet at least 2 of 4):
- Providing executive/VIP protection and site advance coordination
- Conducting criminal investigations, interviews, and interrogations
- Executing arrests, searches, and seizures
- Supporting Continuity of Operations (COOP) planning
Important Notes:
- Maximum entry age is normally 40, but DOE is waiving the age limit for this announcement — all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of age
- Must pass a rigorous medical exam, polygraph, and Top Secret/SCI clearance
- Must qualify with firearms and meet Lautenberg Amendment standards
- Moderate to arduous physical demands (running, prolonged standing, use of force)
No education substitution — experience-based only.
Who Can Apply
- U.S. citizens and nationals
- Military spouses (under E.O. 13473 or certain PCS orders)
- No prior federal experience required
- Veterans and CTAP/ICTAP candidates receive preference when applicable
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Go to the official posting: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/854392400
- Click “Apply Online” and create/login to your USAJOBS account
- Submit a 2-page maximum resume (federal format recommended)
- Optional: Include a cover letter
- Upload any veterans’ preference or military spouse documents if applicable
- Complete the application before 11:59 PM Eastern on January 20, 2026
Resume Tip: Keep it to two pages. Only the first two pages will be reviewed if you submit more.
Don’t Miss This Rare Opportunity
With the age waiver in place and multiple vacancies, this is one of the best chances in years to join DOE’s elite protective and investigative cadre at the GS-13 level. If you have the experience, physical ability, and dedication to protect America’s energy leadership, apply today.
🔗 Direct Link to Apply: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/854392400