SEO Template Writing Sample

Exploring Law Enforcement Careers

How to Become an FBI Agent or Go to School to Protect and Serve

 

Working for the FBI & Other Dream Law Enforcement Jobs

High-tension, action-packed—the life of an FBI Agent or high profile lawyer can seem glamorous on TV crime dramas, but what does it actually take to work in some of the most coveted positions in law enforcement? We’ve broken down some “dream careers” to give students a better understanding of the job requirements and steps it takes to land a job with the FBI, CIA or other high-profile department.

​

Working for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

The FBI aims to combat major crimes and protect the United States from criminal organizations, terrorism, cyber-attacks and foreign intelligence operations. There are two major types of career paths within the FBI: special agent and professional staff. Working for the FBI could entail anything from administrative work and intensive research to preventing cybercrime or de-escalating hostage situations.

​

Potential FBI Careers

 

• Entry Level: Intelligence Analyst
   

Intelligence analysts gather and assess information and provide recommendations to decision-making personnel based on their findings. They work with Special Agents and other Intelligence partners to create strategies and gain a stronger understanding of potential threats and vulnerabilities.

​

• Mid-Level: Special Agent
   

The roles of Special Agents vary, so individuals with all types of work and educational backgrounds may find opportunities to put their skills to use in this role. Special Agents investigate criminal activity and work to ensure public safety.

​

• High Level: Evidence Response Team Member
   

The Evidence Response Team (ERT) is one of the FBI’s advanced tactical units. These supervisory Special Agents, forensic operations specialists, logistics and management specialists and forensic canine consultants assist many different units within the FBI by providing evidence collection and preservation training to new agents.

​

How to Get Your Foot in the Door at the FBI

 

Do your research – Prospective FBI employees generally enter the field fairly young, but prepare for what could easily be a lifelong career. By doing some detailed research, students should prepare their career and educational plan before pursuing an FBI job. This shows the agency that you know what you’re interested in and ready for.

 

Get in shape, both mentally and physically – Not every FBI position requires physical prowess, but those looking to be special agents will need to be able to pass physical fitness tests and have their mental strength pushed as well. Get to know the eligibility requirements before you apply.

 

Participate in an FBI internship – The FBI internship program is highly valuable not only to students, but to the agency as well. The intern pool is one of the first places hiring personnel turn to when looking for new agents and administrative employees.

​

“The job is about getting people to relax, getting witnesses to help you, getting criminals to confess, getting guys to work for us instead of us for them. Likability is a very important trait at the FBI.”

​

- Gary Noesner, former FBI Crisis Negotiator

Business Insider, “What it’s REALLY Like to Work for the FBI”

​

​

#   #   #