Become a Criminal Investigator with the NOAA Office of Law Enforcement
Are you looking to make a tangible difference in the preservation of our nation's natural resources? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently hiring for a Criminal Investigator position based in Seattle, Washington. This role is a unique opportunity to serve as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) within the Office of Law Enforcement (OLE), specifically tasked with safeguarding marine life and enforcing environmental regulations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Criminal Investigator, your daily duties are far from routine. You will:
- Conduct complex domestic and international criminal, civil, and administrative investigations.
- Perform surveillance and participate in undercover operations.
- Execute arrests, searches, and seizures in accordance with federal law and Constitutional standards.
- Document illegal activities involving protected wildlife resources.
- Coordinate with other Federal, State, and Tribal law enforcement agencies.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | ZA-2 Level (Developmental) | ZA-3 Level (Full Performance) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Assisting in investigations | Independent case management |
| Experience Req | 1 year of equivalent federal service | 1 year of equivalent federal service |
| Duties | Support and learning | Complex investigations and arrests |
Requirements
This position is a Critical-Sensitive (Top Secret) role. Candidates must pass rigorous background checks and drug testing. Furthermore, applicants must meet specific physical, medical, and psychological standards, given the arduous nature of the field work involved.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $66,055 to $134,404 annually. As an LEO position, you are also eligible for Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP), which provides an additional 25% of your base salary to compensate for unscheduled duty hours.
Benefits
- Federal retirement plan with LEO provisions.
- Comprehensive insurance including health, life, and long-term care.
- Paid annual and sick leave.
- Professional development through the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume under two pages; longer resumes will not be considered.
- Ensure your transcripts are attached if you are using education to qualify.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for best results.
Serving as a Criminal Investigator for NOAA is a prestigious and demanding career path. If you meet the physical, educational, and legal requirements, we encourage you to apply via USAJOBS before the deadline.
Why This Criminal Investigator Job Matters
Protect our oceans and marine resources as a Criminal Investigator with the NOAA Office of Law Enforcement.
Criminal Investigator Job Overview
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a dedicated Criminal Investigator to join the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), Office of Law Enforcement in Seattle, Washington. In this high-impact role, you will perform critical domestic and international investigations to enforce laws protecting marine life and habitats. You will utilize advanced investigative techniques, including undercover operations and surveillance, to stop illegal resource exploitation. This is a law enforcement officer (LEO) position that demands physical readiness, emotional stability, and a commitment to upholding U.S. federal laws.
Requirements for Criminal Investigator
- Must be a United States citizen.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance.
- Must pass pre-employment medical, psychological, and physical examinations.
- Must carry and maintain proficiency in the use of a firearm.
- Must possess a valid state driver's license.
- Must submit to random and pre-employment drug testing.
- Must agree to a mobility agreement for potential geographic reassignment.
- Must be under 37 years of age for initial LEO appointment, unless a veteran or current/prior Federal LEO.
- Must meet stringent physical requirements, including specific vision and hearing standards.
Preferred Qualifications for Criminal Investigator
- Completion of the Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP) at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.
- Demonstrated experience in conducting complex criminal, civil, or administrative investigations.
- Proven track record in executing arrests, searches, and seizures in accordance with federal law.
- Professional experience in preparing comprehensive written investigative reports from gathered evidence.
- Educational background in criminal justice or related fields as defined by OPM standards.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) of 25% added to base salary.
- ✓Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) retirement provisions.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
💡 How to Apply Criminal Investigator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Criminal Investigator Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement on USAJOBS.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages and highlights relevant investigative experience.
- Gather supporting documents such as SF-50s, college transcripts, and DD-214 (if applicable).
- Complete the online application, including all questionnaires and assessments, before the closing date.
- Submit your application through the official USAJOBS portal by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory information is included.
- Clearly define your work experience by including job titles, series/grades, and hours per week.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Double-check that your email address is active, as all correspondence occurs via email.
- Review your resume to ensure it does not exceed the two-page limit, or you will be disqualified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a maximum age requirement for this position?
Yes. This is a primary law enforcement position. Applicants must be under 37 years old unless they have prior federal LEO coverage or veteran preference.
What is the physical standard for this role?
The role involves arduous physical exertion. Applicants must meet specific vision (20/20 corrected) and hearing standards and must pass a medical and psychological exam.
Will I be required to travel?
Yes. This position requires travel and the ability to work uncontrollable overtime hours.
What is the Lautenberg Amendment?
It prohibits anyone convicted of a misdemeanor or felony crime of domestic violence from possessing a firearm or working as a federal law enforcement officer.
Can I use education to qualify?
Yes, substitution of education (graduate-level coursework) is permitted under specific conditions defined in the full announcement.
Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration
NOAA is at the forefront of science, research, and environmental stewardship. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Office of Law Enforcement plays a vital role in protecting marine wildlife by investigating illegal fishing, the destruction of protected habitats, and international wildlife trafficking. By working here, you contribute directly to the economic vitality of the U.S. and the health of our oceans.