About This Position
Organizational Location: This position is with the Department of Homeland Security, within U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Professional Responsibility, Investigative Operations Division, Protective Operstions Branch located in Washington, D.C. This is a Direct Hire Public Notice. Category Rating, Veterans' Preference and traditional rating and ranking do not apply to this Public Notice.
Qualifications
Experience: You qualify for the GS-14 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as: Conducting protective details and protection planning assignments for senior officials and other dignitaries. Conducting criminal investigations on employees and/or associated individuals who are suspected of misconduct, corruption, extortion and other violations affecting national security. Conducting investigations and coordinating with multiple agencies across multiple jurisdictions. Drafting and executing search and arrest warrants; subpoenas; electronic surveillance orders and affidavits and preparing detailed Reports of Investigations. NOTE: Your resume must explicitly indicate how you meet this requirement, otherwise you will be found ineligible. Please see the "Required Documents" section below for additional resume requirements. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. You must meet all qualification requirements, including education if applicable to this position, subject to verification at any stage of the application process by 02/13/2026. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office. Background Investigation: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is a federal law enforcement agency that requires all applicants to undergo a thorough background investigation prior to employment in order to promote the agency's core values of vigilance, service to country, and integrity. During the screening and/or background investigation process, you will be asked questions regarding any felony criminal convictions or current felony charges, the use of illegal drugs (e.g., marijuana, cocaine, heroin, LSD, methamphetamines, ecstasy), and the use of non-prescribed controlled substances including any experimentation, possession, sale, receipt, manufacture, cultivation, production, transfer, shipping, trafficking, or distribution of controlled substances. For additional information, review the following links: Background investigation and the e-QIP process. Medical Examination: Individuals must meet the established medical standards and/or physical requirement for the position, proving they are medically and physically capable of performing the essential job functions and duties of the position safely and efficiently. A medical examination will be conducted. Any disease or condition that may potentially interfere with the safe and efficient performance of the job's duties or training may constitute grounds for medical disqualification. Medical qualification determinations will be made on a case-by-case basis. If additional medical information is recommended beyond that provided at the pre-employment examination, it is provided at the expense of the tentative selectee. Firearms Requirement: You will be required to carry a firearm and maintain firearm proficiency. This position requires that the incumbent meet initial and continuing qualifications in the use of firearms as outlined in the Gun Control Act of 1968, amended by the Lautenberg Amendment of 1996. An applicant whose background includes any of the following will be ineligible for consideration: 1) convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year; 2) has any outstanding warrants or is a fugitive from justice; 3) unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance; 4) adjudicated as a mental defective or has been committed to a mental institution; 5) illegally or unlawfully in the United States; 6) renounced U. S. citizenship; 7) subject to a court-ordered restraining (protection) order from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner (spouse, former spouse, parent of applicant's child, individual who cohabitates or has cohabitated with the applicant), or child; or 8) convicted under Federal, State, or Tribal Court of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence against an intimate partner or child. Polygraph Examination: The Criminal Investigator position is a polygraph-required position. If you are not a current CBP employee in a law enforcement position, you may be required to take a polygraph exam and have favorable results in order to continue in the pre-employment process. Please see Polygraph Examination. Polygraph Reciprocity: CBP may accept the results of a prior federal polygraph exam in lieu of a CBP polygraph exam. You will receive information to request reciprocity in your Background Investigation Package. Polygraph Waiver: Certain veterans may be eligible to obtain a polygraph waiver. You will receive information to request a waiver in your Background Investigation Package. Drug Testing: This job has been identified as "testing designated" under our Drug-Free Workplace Program. Therefore, you must satisfactorily complete a drug test prior to being hired. The agency will schedule, provide and pay for the drug test. Once on board, you will be subject to random drug testing. Residency: There is a residency requirement for all applicants not currently employed by CBP. Individuals are required to have physically resided in the United States or its protectorates (as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five years. If you do not meet the residency requirement and you have been physically located in a foreign location for more than two of the last five years, you may request an exception to determine if you are eligible for a residency waiver by meeting one or more of the following conditions: Working for the U.S. Government as a federal civilian or as a member of the military A dependent who was authorized to accompany a federal civilian or member of the military who was working for the U.S. government Participation in a study abroad program sponsored by a U.S. affiliated college or university Working as a contractor, intern, consultant or volunteer supporting the U.S. government Probationary Period: All employees new to the federal government must serve a one year probationary period during the first year of his/her initial permanent federal appointment to determine fitness for continued employment. Current and former federal employees may be required to serve or complete a probationary period.
Major Duties
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is hiring for law enforcement jobs that have an exciting opportunity! Once onboarded, you'll first be assigned for up to one year to support the D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force. The law enforcement component of the D.C. Task Force is a partnership of over 20 federal and local agencies working together to make D.C. the safest city in America. Once the assignment ends, you'll transition back to support the CBP. Visit the D.C. Task Force page for more information. This position starts at a salary of $147,899.00 (GS-14, Step 1) to $192,275.00 (GS-14, Step 10). Duties include: Conducting protective intelligence investigations of major inter-regional dimensions having national or international implications; and investigating individuals, businesses, employees, and criminal organizations that represent a significant threat to the United States national security; against individuals, groups or organizations posing a threat toward CBP employees. Conducting proactive and/or reactive criminal investigations involving CBP employees and related entities suspected of crimes affecting the administration of Customs and Immigration laws including, but not limited to, fraud, perjury, giving false, fictitious or fraudulent information, or other violations. Gathering and analyzing vital information, facts, evidence, and intelligence from a variety of sources including open sources, law enforcement databases and interviews, and interrogations of suspects and witnesses. Preparing detailed reports of investigation and briefings, presenting the results of ongoing investigations to OPR senior management, and the Office of the U.S. Attorney's Office. Serving as a senior case agent for inter-agency investigations, and leading teams of other Special Agents and law enforcement officers in investigations and operations by directing investigative activities, assigning tasks, and leading the investigation through completion.
Conditions of Employment
You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service Primary U.S. residency for at least three of the last five years (additional details below) All pre-employment processes will be conducted in English You may be required to pass a background investigation and/or polygraph CBP follows the DHS Drug-Free Workplace Plan for drug testing procedures As an employee of CBP, you will be joining a workforce that is dedicated to accomplishing our mission while maintaining the trust of our Nation by strictly adhering to all government ethics standards. Your conduct will be subject to the ethics rules applicable to all Executive Branch employees, and to CBP employees specifically, as well as the criminal conflict of interest statutes. Once you enter on duty, these rules include obtaining approval for outside employment or business activity, to ensure such employment or business activity is not prohibited and does not interfere or conflict with performance of your official duties. Please review further details via the following link. DHS uses E-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify including your rights and responsibilities. Bargaining Unit: This is not a bargaining unit covered position. Mobility Agreement: Selectees will be required to sign a mobility agreement upon acceptance of this position. The selectee may be required to relocate to another duty location in accordance with applicable law, regulation and Agency policy, to a different geographic location, at any time during your employment with CBP. Motor Vehicle Operation: You must possess the Ability to operate a Government Owned Vehicle. A valid, non-restricted driver's license is required. This announcement will be open for five business days OR until the first 100 applications have been received, whichever happens first. It is recommended that you apply as soon as possible in order to receive consideration.
Education
Please see the Qualifications and Required Documents sections for more information if education is applicable to this position. Criminal Investigator Training Program: Criminal Investigators must complete an initial course of basic training, specifically the Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP) at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Glynco, Georgia, or an Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) approved equivalent course of instruction and the OPR Special Agent Training Program at the Customs and Border Protection Advanced Training Center, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, as well as additional training throughout their careers. Both basic and advanced training programs are designed to prepare law enforcement personnel with the skills, aptitudes, and competencies required to serve as a Criminal Investigator.
How You Will Be Evaluated
This position is being filled under a Direct Hire Authority. We will review your resume and supporting documentation to ensure you meet the minimum qualification requirements. All applicants who meet minimum qualifications and any basic requirements applicable to this position, will be forwarded to the hiring manager for consideration and may be contacted for an interview. As a part of the interview process, additional selection criteria may be administered by the hiring manager. The competencies or knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform this job are: Skill in applying, theories, concepts, principles, practices, investigative methods, including constitutional, statutory, and international laws. Knowledge of the Federal Rules of Evidence, criminal procedures, and court decisions concerning admissibility of evidence, constitutional rights, search and seizure, apprehension and detention of suspects, and related investigative and law enforcement matters. Knowledge of firearms and use of force policies, to include federal and state laws regarding the use of deadly force. Skill in preparing clear, concise, and accurate correspondence and reports for leadership and other agency representatives. Knowledge of federal, state, and local law enforcement agency functions and jurisdictions to include the need to coordinate investigations where agencies have a mutual interest. Knowledge of procedures and techniques employed in protection activities. Applicants should strive to include information in their resumes to reflect each of the competencies and resumes should not exceed 5 pages. Writing Sample: A writing sample may be requested. Veterans: Veterans preference does not apply to selections made using the Direct Hire Authority. Veteran applicants will be considered along with all other applicants who apply. Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) Eligibles: If you have never worked for the federal government, you are not CTAP/ICTAP eligible. View information about CTAP/ICTAP eligibility on OPM's Career Transition Resources website. To be considered under CTAP/ICTAP, you must have knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies as defined above which clearly exceed the minimum qualification and any applicable basic requirements for the vacancy. In addition, you must submit the supporting documents listed under the Required Documents section of this job announcement.
Additional Information
The vacancy questionnaire includes four short, free-response essay questions. This provides an opportunity for you to highlight your dedication to public service for the hiring manager and agency leadership (or designee(s)). While your responses are not required and will not be scored, we encourage you to thoughtfully address each question. Please provide a response of 200 words or less to each question. You will be asked to certify that you are using your own words and did not use a consultant or artificial intelligence (AI) such as a large language model (LLM) like ChatGPT or Copilot. To preview the questionnaire please click on https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12873117. Security Clearance: You may be required to obtain a Top Secret clearance for this position. Age Requirement: Provisions of Public Laws 93-350 and 100-238 allow the imposition of a maximum age for initial appointment to a primary Law Enforcement Officer position within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In accordance with DHS Management Directive 251-03, the "day before an individual's 37th birthday" is the maximum age for original appointment to a position as a primary law enforcement officer within DHS. In accordance with Department of Homeland Security Directive 251-03, unless the below criteria applies, you must meet this age requirement by the date of referral to the hiring manager. Creditable law enforcement officer service covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d), or creditable service covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8401(36) (as a Customs and Border Protection Officer) on or after July 6, 2008, may be applied toward the maximum age requirement. This age restriction may not apply if you are currently serving in a federal civilian (not military) law enforcement position covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d). Veterans Preference Eligibility: To ensure compliance with statutes pertaining to the appointment of preference eligible veterans as determined by the Merit Systems Protection Board in its recent decision of Isabella v. Dept. of State, the maximum age for original appointment articulated above shall not apply to the hiring of individuals entitled to veterans preference eligibility under 5 U.S.C. § 3312. You must submit proof of Veteran's Preference (DD-214 Member 4 Copy) at the time of application. For more information on Veterans' Preference eligibility please see the OPM Veterans' Guide. Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP): As a law enforcement officer you will be required to work on an unscheduled basis in excess of the 40-hour work week. These positions require substantial overtime to include holidays, weekends and nights. You must be readily accessible to perform this unscheduled work. To ensure your availability, you will receive extra compensation in the form of Law Enforcement Availability Pay, which is calculated at a flat rate of 25 percent of base salary.
How to Apply
Please upload your resume under the "Resume" document type. Any other relevant supporting documents should be uploaded under their appropriate document types as mentioned above. Please note that only the most recently uploaded version of your resume will be reviewed. Resumes must be limited to two pages or less; those exceeding this limit will not be considered during the application process. To begin your online application, click "Apply Online" to create a USAJOBS account and follow the prompts or log in to your existing account. Your application packet must include a completed assessment questionnaire, a resume, and any applicable and/or required supporting documentation. Please see the "Required Documents" section for additional information. All application materials, including transcripts, must be in English. Applications and supporting documentation will not be accepted by mail or email. The address below is for inquiries only. You may apply more than once, but the most recent application is the only one that will be used. You must submit your resume, your online questionnaire, and any supporting documents by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on 02/13/2026. It is your responsibility to verify that any information entered or uploaded is received and is accurate. Human Resources will not modify or change any part of your application. Determining your eligibility and qualifications is dependent on the supporting documentation and information provided, which may impact your referral for further consideration. If a document is not legible, you will not be able to view it in your application and you must again upload it by the closing date Please upload your resume under the "Resume" document type. Any other relevant supporting documents should be uploaded under their appropriate document types as mentioned above. Only resumes up to a total of two pages will be accepted. Applicants with resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. Do not submit documents as a PDF Portfolios. DHS offers competitive salaries and an attractive benefits package, including: health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance; retirement plan; Thrift Savings Plan [similar to a 401(k)]; Flexible Spending Account; Employee Assistance Program; personal leave days; and paid federal holidays. Other benefits may include: flexible work schedules; telework; tuition reimbursement; transportation subsidies; uniform allowance; health and wellness programs; and fitness centers. DHS is committed to employee development and offers a variety of employee training and developmental opportunities. For more information, go to the DHS Careers website and select "Benefits." Disabled veteran leave will be available to any Federal employee hired on or after November 5, 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30 percent or more. Applying to this announcement certifies that you give permission for DHS to share your application with others in DHS for similar positions. The Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act prohibits the Department of Homeland Security and its Components from requesting an applicant's criminal history record before that individual receives a conditional offer of employment. In accordance with 5 U.S. Code § 9202(c) and 5 C.F.R § 920.201 certain positions are exempt from the provisions of the Fair Chance to Compete Act. Applicants who believe they have been subjected to a violation of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act, may submit a written complaint to [email protected]. The Department of Homeland Security encourages persons with disabilities to apply, to include persons with intellectual, severe physical or psychiatric disabilities, as defined by 5 CFR § 213.3102(u), and/or Disabled Veterans with a compensable service-connected disability of 30 percent or more as defined by 5 CFR § 315.707. Veterans, Peace Corps/VISTA volunteers, and persons with disabilities possess a wealth of unique talents, experiences, and competencies that can be invaluable to the DHS mission. If you are a member of one of these groups, you may not have to compete with the public for federal jobs. To determine your eligibility for non-competitive appointment and to understand the required documentation, click on the links above or contact the Servicing Human Resources Office listed at the bottom of this announcement. View common definitions of terms in this announcement.
Required Documents
Your resume: A resume describing your job-related qualifications is required and will be used for the purpose of reviewing your qualifications and determining what training, if any, would be required when placed. A resume in English is required. It must contain your full legal name, phone number, relevant work history including a detailed description of your duties, the dates you performed those duties (MM/DD/YY), your hours worked per week, job title, as well as series, grade, and salary (if applicable). For additional required items, see the link. It is recommended that you upload your resume as a PDF instead of a Word document to ensure document quality. Ensure that your uploaded resume is not a password protected document, including Office 365 passwords. Limit your resume to no more than two pages. The USAJOBS database will not allow an applicant to submit an application that includes a resume over two pages. Your responses to the job questionnaire: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12873117 Age Requirement Documents: If you are over the age of 37 you will need to submit proof you are eligible for this position. If you do not meet the age requirement and you are unable to provide this required documentation, you will not receive consideration under this announcement. DD 214 (Member Copy 4); and If you are a veteran with a service-connected disability; A VA Disability Award letter dated 1991 or later Active Duty Applicants: Statement of Service (Certification letter): If on active duty you must submit certification with the military branch letterhead that contains (1) the military service dates including the expected discharge or release date; (2) campaign badges and expeditionary medals earned; and (3) the character of service. Your preference will be verified by a Member Copy 4 of your DD 214 upon separation from the military. For more information visit Veterans' Preference Prior Federal Law Enforcement Service: If you are claiming an age waiver based on Federal law enforcement service; you must submit copies of your SF-50s reflecting the beginning date and end date of creditable Federal civilian (not military) service under Title 5 U.S.C. 8331(20), and Title 5 U.S.C. 8401(17). Block 30 of your SF-50 should show Retirement Code M or O. Veterans Preference: Applicants who do not meet the age requirement but are entitled to veteran's preference eligibility under 5 U.S.C § 3312 must submit the following documents to verify their claim: *Although Veterans' Preference does not apply to Direct Hire Authority, upon selection, veterans' documents may be required. Are you claiming special priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP), Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP), or the Reemployment Priority List (RPL)? You must submit a separation notice; your most recent SF-50 (noting your current position, grade level and duty location); a copy of your most recent performance rating; an agency certification that you cannot be placed after injury compensation has been terminated; an OPM notification that your disability annuity has been terminated; or a Military Department of National Guard Bureau notification that you are retired under 5 U.S.C. 8337(h) or 8456; or RPL registration documentation. Are you a current or former federal employee? If yes, it is recommended that you submit a copy of your SF-50(s) (Notification of Personnel Action) to support your experience. Examples of appropriate SF-50s include promotions, within-grade increases and accessions. Retired former federal employees are required to submit your retirement SF-50 and encouraged to submit your most recent annuity statement. Are you a current or former political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee? Submit a copy of your applicable SF-50, along with a statement that provides the following information regarding your most recent political appointment: Position title Type of appointment (Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES, or Presidential Appointee) Agency Beginning and ending dates of appointment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for the Criminal Investigator position at Customs and Border Protection?
The salary range for this position is $147,899 - $192,275/yr. This is a GS-14 position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Criminal Investigator job located?
This position is located in Washington, District of Columbia. This is an on-site position.
What qualifications do I need?
Experience: You qualify for the GS-14 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as: Conducting protective details and protection planning assignments for senior officials and other dignitaries. Conducting criminal investigations on employees and/or associ...
How do I apply for this position?
Apply through USAJobs.gov by clicking the 'Apply on USAJobs' button. You'll need a USAJobs account, a federal-style resume, and supporting documents. The deadline is Feb 13, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, a Top Secret clearance is required.
What does GS-14 mean?
GS-14 refers to the General Schedule grade level. Higher grades require more experience and offer higher pay. Visit our GS Pay Scale page for full salary tables by grade and locality.
What benefits do federal employees receive?
Federal employees receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (FEHB), retirement through FERS, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, paid annual and sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and student loan repayment programs.