How Can I Get a Job With the FBI?
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is an investigative agency in the United States of American which focuses on terrorism and serious crimes within American borders. There are a wide range of career possibilities with the FBI, and a career with the FBI can be immensely satisfying and rewarding for people who qualify. Many people want to work for the FBI, but the agency is only able to hire a small number of people each year. If someone is dedicated and willing to keep reapplying, however, they may ultimately be able to work for the FBI.
Getting a job with the FBI starts young. If you want to work for the FBI, start by excelling in high school, and participating in sports and other extracurricular activities. These skills will stand you in good stead when you apply for college. The FBI requires a four year degree for all its applicants, although the degree can be in anything the student desires.
After college, plan on working for a minimum of three years, establishing yourself as a self directed, motivated, and committed individual. After you have fulfilled these requirements, you can start the process which may lead to your employment with the FBI. The more education and work experience you have, the more likely it is that you will be able to work for the FBI.
Employment with the FBI falls into several categories. Most people are familiar with special agents, who work in one of five programs: accounting, computer science/information technology, law, language, or “diversified.” However, the staff of the FBI also includes numerous support personnel ranging from hostage negotiators to data analysts. If you work for the FBI, you may find yourself working in counterterrorism, cybercrimes, criminal investigation, or intelligence divisions. Before you start applying, think about your strengths and weaknesses and where you might best fit in.
In order to become a special agent, you must be an American citizen or citizen of the Northern Mariana Islands between 23-37 years of age. In addition to a four year degree, you should have a valid driver's license, and you should be prepared to pass a physical examination and a background check. The FBI also has a no tolerance drug policy, and if you work for the FBI, you will be regularly tested for traces of illegal substances. FBI employees must also be prepared for station reassignment, which may involve moving across the country for work. If you want to work for the FBI in another capacity, check the individual recruitment requirements available on the FBI's website.
Previous law enforcement experience is not required to work for the FBI. However, it is certainly helpful, as are advanced degrees. Since the FBI is a highly competitive employer, it can afford to be very particular about new hires. You may want to consider contacting an FBI recruitment representative in your area to get more information about working for the FBI, as standards can change unexpectedly with the changing political climate. The FBI always has a shortlist of vitally needed skill sets, and if you are on that list, you can greatly increase your chance of employment with the organization.
Written by S.E. Smith
