A prestigious career in federal law enforcement is now open with the announcement of ATF Criminal Investigator Special Agent jobs USA 2025. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is actively recruiting dedicated Criminal Investigators (Special Agents) for its Washington Field Office. This position is ideal for experienced law enforcement professionals seeking federal law enforcement jobs USA that directly impact public safety. If you are looking for special agent jobs USA involving complex investigations into violent crimes and illicit trafficking, this role offers a challenging and rewarding path within the Department of Justice jobs sector.
ATF Criminal Investigator Jobs USA 2025 Overview
This table provides a summary of this ATF special agent hiring 2025 opportunity.
Property |
Details |
|---|---|
Position Title |
Criminal Investigator (Special Agent) |
Agency |
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) |
Location |
Washington, DC |
Salary Range |
$84,601 – $156,755 per year |
Pay Scale |
GS-11 to GS-13 |
Job Type |
Permanent, Full-time |
Security Clearance |
Top Secret |
Travel |
Occasional |
Application Deadline |
10/31/2026 |
Application Portal |
About the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
This official job posting is from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), a key law enforcement agency within the U.S. Department of Justice. The ATF is responsible for protecting communities from violent criminals, criminal organizations, the illegal use and trafficking of firearms, the illegal use and storage of explosives, acts of arson and bombings, acts of terrorism, and the illegal diversion of alcohol and tobacco products. As an ATF special agent, you will be at the forefront of these critical missions.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
As a Criminal Investigator for the ATF, you will perform expert-level investigative work. Your key responsibilities will include:
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Complex Investigations: Conducting investigations into violations of federal laws related to firearms, explosives, arson, and alcohol/tobacco diversion.
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Operational Planning: Leading surveillance, undercover work, searches, seizures, and arrests in cases involving violent organizations.
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Lead Development: Establishing leads from known criminal activities and initiating investigations that are wide in scope and complexity.
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Interagency Coordination: Collaborating with other federal, state, and local agencies to resolve complex jurisdictional problems.
Required Qualifications and Eligibility
To be eligible for these GS 11 to GS 13 law enforcement positions, candidates must meet strict requirements:
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Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship or National status is required.
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Experience:
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GS-11: One year of specialized experience at the GL-9 level (conducting criminal investigations, obtaining leads, preparing case reports) OR a Ph.D./3 years of graduate education in a related field.
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GS-12: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level (leading investigations, planning operations).
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GS-13: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level (applying a wide range of investigative laws/regulations).
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Training: Must have successfully completed the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center’s Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP) or an equivalent recognized federal program.
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Physical Requirements: Must pass a medical examination, drug screening, and a physical task test.
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Polygraph: Successful completion of a polygraph examination is mandatory.
Benefits and Incentives
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Competitive Salary: The salary range is $84,601 to $156,755 per year.
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Law Enforcement Retirement: This position is covered by special law enforcement retirement provisions.
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Comprehensive Benefits: Includes federal health insurance, life insurance, and paid leave.
How to Apply for ATF Jobs
The application process for ATF jobs USA is managed through USAJOBS.
Application Deadline: 10/31/2026 (Open Continuous Announcement).
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Prepare Your Resume: Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and explicitly details your specialized experience, including dates and hours worked.
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Submit Documentation: Upload your CITP certificate, transcripts (if qualifying by education), and most recent SF-50 (if a current/former federal employee).
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Apply Online: Visit the official USAJOBS announcement (Control Number: 849529300) and click “Apply”.
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Complete Assessment: Finish the online questionnaire and attach all required documents.
For specific inquiries, contact SAIOI Applicant Info at saioiapplicantinfo@atf.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I apply for ATF Criminal Investigator jobs?
You must apply through USAJOBS.gov by searching for the announcement number 26-FO-ST-12829717-RT. Submit your resume, CITP certificate, and other required documents before October 31, 2026.
2. What are the requirements for ATF special agent jobs?
Applicants need specialized criminal investigative experience (or a Ph.D. for GS-11), must have completed the CITP (or equivalent), and must pass a polygraph, medical exam, and drug test.
3. Is there an age limit for ATF special agents?
While not explicitly stated in this snippet, federal law enforcement positions typically have a maximum entry age of 37, with exceptions for veterans and current federal law enforcement officers. Check the full announcement for specific age requirements.
