Criminal Investigator (Special Agent) – Entry‑Level / Recent Grads (GL 5-9)
ATF – Office of Field Operations
Location Negotiable Nationwide
*NOTE: ATF is offering a $60K signing bonus to new special agents
Position Summary
This open continuous announcement hires entry‑level Special Agents (GL‑5/7/9) with promotion potential to GS‑13. Candidates do not need prior federal investigative experience and may qualify through education, early‑career experience, or a combination of both. Selected applicants become Special Agent trainees and complete mandatory federal law‑enforcement training, including CITP and ATF SABT.
Key Responsibilities
• Conduct investigations involving firearms, explosives, arson, and alcohol/tobacco diversion.
• Gather and analyze evidence, execute search warrants, make arrests, and develop investigative leads.
• Prepare investigative reports and testify in court and grand juries.
• Support ATF’s mission to prevent violent crime and protect the public.
Who Can Apply
• Open to all U.S. Citizens under delegated examining—no federal status required.
• Veterans receive hiring preference.
• Must meet age, residency, and mobility requirements.
Minimum Requirements
• U.S. citizenship and valid driver’s license.
• Age 21–36 at time of selection (with certain veteran exceptions).
• Ability to pass a Top Secret clearance, polygraph, medical exam, drug test, PTT, structured interview, and background investigation.
• Willingness to relocate anywhere in the U.S.
• Ability to complete CITP (12 weeks) + ATF SABT (15 weeks).
Entry Qualifications (multiple pathways)
• GL‑5: Three years of general experience OR bachelor’s degree in any field.
• GL‑7: One year of specialized experience OR one year of graduate study OR bachelor’s with Superior Academic Achievement.
• GL‑9: One year of higher‑level investigative experience OR a master’s degree/J.D./LL.B.
Incentives
• Recruitment incentive up to $60,000 for new federal employees.
• Relocation incentive up to $25,000 for current federal employees.
• Law Enforcement Availability Pay (25% of base salary).
