Career: Federal Agents
With September 11, 2001, behind us and the constant threat of terrorism ahead, the FBI reports a “critical need” for more special agents -- and that’s just one of many roles you could play in this profession. As a federal agent, you could investigate corporate scandals, work to stop drug smuggling, search luggage for bombs, and much more. And you’ll have to be good at keeping secrets: the job requires confidentiality at all costs.
Federal law enforcement agents work to stop violations of federal law, from bank robbery to drug trafficking and terrorist activity.
Did You Know?
- As a federal agent, you might protect the president for the U.S. Secret Service.
Are You Ready To...?
- Investigate complex crimes
- Conduct surveillance
- Analyze business records
- Go undercover
- Arrest fugitives
It Helps to Be...
Trustworthy, responsible, mature, and a top-notch detective. You should also be someone who doesn’t mind being on the move. Federal agents are often asked to relocate, and on-the-job travel can be frequent.
Make High School Count
- Sharpen your problem-solving skills in math and science.
- Learn to read between the lines in English and history.
- Take classes in business and accounting. Some agencies, such as the FBI, look for accounting majors.
- Learn to speak a second language and work toward fluency.
Did You Know?
- Some federal agents fight the drug war for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Outlook
Government economists expect jobs for police officers, including federal agents, to grow as fast as the average for all careers through 2016.
Competition is expected to be tough for federal law enforcement agency jobs. There are typically more qualified candidates than there are job openings at the federal level. That’s because the salaries in federal agencies are relatively high.
Those with a bachelor’s degree and experience in law enforcement or the military will have better chances.
Compensation
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, FBI agents in 2007 entered the job at the GS-10 level and earned a base salary of $48,159. At the GS-13 level, the base salary went to $75,414, and those who rose to the top at the GS-15 level were paid a base salary of $104,826.
But there’s more: for all the overtime they typically work, federal agents receive “LEAP” (law enforcement availability pay), which adds another 25 percent to their salaries.
