DEA Agent Career and Job Functions

DEA Agent Career and Job FunctionsDEA Agent Career and Job FunctionsIllegal and illicit drug use is a problem that touches nearly every aspect of society.The drug trade has been tied to terrorism, as well as to all sorts of other illegal and harmful behaviorsacross the world. TheDrug Enforcement Agency wascreated as part of theDepartment of Justice to combat the effects of drug trafficking in the U.S. If you wantto work toward eradicating the illegal sale and use of drugsand associated criminal activities, youmightwant to consider a career as a DEA special agent. Job Functions and the Work Environment of DEA Special Agents DEA agents have a unique and special role in law enforcement.Theyreassigned to investigate every facet of theillegal drug industry, so theymay be sent to work anywhere in the country or even the world, including assignments to remote and perhaps even undesirable locations. DEA special agents work closely with state and local law enforcement agencies, as well as fellow federal law enforcement associates. They helpto coordinate investigations and enforcement efforts. Drug enforcement agents are just as likely to work behind the scenes in support of local efforts as they are to take the lead in enforcing federal drug policy. The job of a drug enforcement agent often includes Conducting surveillanceReport writingPreparing and obtaining search and arrest warrantsCoordinating federal, state and local drug enforcement effortsParticipating in undercover operationsTracking and arresting suspected criminalsProviding courtroom testimonyHandling weapons, drugs and large sums of moneyConducting and coordinating investigations A career as a DEA agent comes withsome special risks, chiefly in the areaof undercover work.Undercover agents may be tasked with transporting large amounts of illegal drugs or money.They rarelycarry law enforcement credentials because of the danger ofbeing discovered. They may be subject to arrest by local law enforcement officer s who are unaware of their activities, in addition torisks posed by interacting withthe criminal element. Education and Skill Requirements for DEA Agents Beinghired as a DEA agent can be acompetitive challenge.Candidates must be at least 21 years old and younger than 37 at the time of appointment. The DEA has somestrict hiring standards. A rigorous background investigationincludesa polygraph exam and psychological screening.Candidates must also undergo a physical abilities test to ensure that theyrephysically capable of performing the job. According to the agency, the fruchtwein competitive candidates will haveat least a four-year degree in criminal justice or a related program such as police science or criminology. Preferably, they will hold a masters degree in criminal justice or criminology. Most also have previous experience in law enforcement and many have military backgrounds. Fluency in a foreign language is a major plus, especially Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Hebrew, Chine se, Japanese or Nigerian.Skills in computer science, finance, and accounting, economics, and engineeringare also a plus. Prospective agents undergo an intensive 18-week training program at the DEA Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia after theyre hired.Agentsreceive their first duty assignmentduring this training.Candidates must agree to be assigned anywhere the agency requires them to go as a condition of employment. Job Growth and Salary Outlook for Drug Enforcement Special Agents Drug enforcement is an ongoing issue that requires constant attention, sothe landscape of federal drug policy is constantly changing. This means new challenges and new opportunities may be on the horizon for agents at any time.It also means thata need for drug enforcement agents will continue. As with most federal law enforcement jobs, the DEA conducts periodic hiring campaigns.Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact their nearest DEA recruiting office to stay up to date with employment op portunities within the agency. First-year agents can expect to earn a base salary of between $33,477and $53,234 as of 2016,depending on the location of their first assignment and the nature of their past experience. They can earnfrom $37,309 to$41,612 during their training period. Theyrealso eligible for law enforcement availability pay (LEAP), which can earn themmora each year.DEA agents may become eligible for promotionsandsalariesof more than $90,000 ayear after four years of service. Is a Career As a DEA Agent Right for You? The Drug Enforcement Agency provides unique perspectives and challenges forlaw enforcement agents. If you feel strongly about curtailing illegal drug trafficking and you dont mind getting your hands dirty, you may find that a job as a DEA agent may just be the perfect criminology career for you.