Become a Leader in National Security: Supervisory Criminal Investigator at USCIS
Are you looking to take your law enforcement career to the executive level? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is currently seeking highly qualified professionals to serve as Supervisory Criminal Investigators (Special Agent in Charge). This role is vital to protecting the integrity of our nation's immigration system.
Job Responsibilities
As a Special Agent in Charge, you will manage major field regions within the Investigative Operations Division. Key duties include:
- Leadership: Directing field enforcement programs and evaluating program effectiveness against agency goals.
- Operational Oversight: Managing administrative and budgetary resources, including the implementation of new technology.
- Collaboration: Serving as the executive representative for USCIS in meetings with federal, state, and local law enforcement, congressional staff, and the media.
- Strategy: Developing and evaluating investigative policies to combat sophisticated immigration fraud trends.
Requirements
This is a senior-level position requiring specialized experience. Candidates must meet the following:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Background: Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance.
- Training: Commitment to completing 21 weeks of specialized training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC).
- Physical Fitness: Ability to pass a Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and maintain the stamina required for surveillance and tactical operations.
Comparison of Potential Locations
| Feature | Phoenix, Arizona | Lees Summit, Missouri |
|---|---|---|
| Regional Hub | Southwest Enforcement | Kansas City Division |
| Status | Established Duty Station | Developing New Facility |
| Environment | Dynamic Field Office | Expanding Operations |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $126,384 to $164,301 per year. In addition to base pay, employees receive a robust federal benefits package:
- Comprehensive Insurance: Health, dental, vision, and long-term care.
- Retirement: Inclusion in the special law enforcement retirement provisions (CSRS/FERS).
- Savings: Access to the Thrift Savings Plan with government matching.
- Work-Life: Paid federal holidays, personal leave, and flexible work schedules.
Application Tips
This vacancy is limited to the first 100 applicants. To ensure your application is successful, keep your resume concise (under two pages), clearly label all federal experience, and ensure your responses to the online questionnaire are thorough and honest. Do not use AI to generate your essay responses, as original thought is valued by the hiring board.
This is an outstanding opportunity for dedicated law enforcement professionals to influence national security at the highest level. If you possess the leadership, integrity, and investigative experience required, apply now to join the ranks of those protecting our nation's immigration system.
Why This Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Special Agent In Charge) Job Matters
Protect our nation's integrity and defend against immigration fraud as a Supervisory Criminal Investigator with USCIS.
Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Special Agent In Charge) Job Overview
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is seeking experienced leaders to serve as Supervisory Criminal Investigators (Special Agent in Charge). In this high-impact role, you will lead regional investigative operations to detect and deter immigration benefit fraud, safeguard national security, and uphold the integrity of the United States immigration system. You will oversee critical field enforcement programs, manage administrative and budgetary resources, and serve as a key liaison to federal, state, and local law enforcement partners.
Requirements for Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Special Agent In Charge)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Ability to pass a comprehensive Top Secret background investigation
- Completion of a drug screening and willingness to undergo random testing
- Possession of a current, valid driver's license and REAL ID compliance
- Must be able to carry a firearm and meet all proficiency requirements
- Residency requirement (3 of the last 5 years in the U.S. or overseas for Federal/Military)
- Commitment to completing the Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP) and FDNS Special Agent Training
- Ability to perform rigorous physical activities including surveillance, running, and restraining suspects
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Special Agent In Charge)
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-14 federal grade level
- Proven expertise in evaluating and updating investigative policies
- Experience developing operational plans to mitigate national security vulnerabilities
- Demonstrated history of interagency collaboration on complex criminal investigations
- Existing certification in the Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP)
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (CSRS/FERS Law Enforcement provisions)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
- ✓Flexible spending accounts and employee assistance programs
- ✓Fitness center access and wellness programs
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Special Agent In Charge) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Special Agent In Charge) Job
- Review all instructions in the job announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates, grades, and hours for all relevant experience.
- Click the Apply Online button and answer the questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including SF-50s and training certificates, before the application limit is reached.
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal by the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- The application window closes early if 100 applications are received; submit as early as possible.
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the criteria listed in the qualification section.
- Use standard 11pt font and 0.8-inch margins to ensure your resume remains readable and within the two-page limit.
- Be precise with dates (MM/DD/YYYY) in your work history to avoid disqualification.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached; late submissions are not accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application limit for this position?
This announcement is limited to the first 100 applicants. We strongly recommend applying as soon as the vacancy opens.
Are there specific physical requirements for this role?
Yes. This position involves active duty including surveillance and physical restraint. You may be required to pass a pre-employment Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and maintain high levels of physical stamina.
Is telework available?
USCIS offers episodic telework opportunities for eligible employees, though regular office attendance and travel are required based on agency needs.
What is the residency requirement?
*A: You must have resided in the U.S. for three of the last five years, unless serving abroad in a federal or military capacity.*
Is a firearm required?
*A: Yes, this position requires carrying a firearm and maintaining ongoing proficiency.*
Job from Citizenship And Immigration Services
USCIS is the federal agency responsible for managing the lawful immigration process. Beyond adjudication, the Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate (FDNS) works tirelessly to identify vulnerabilities, deter fraud, and ensure that immigration processes do not compromise national security or public safety. Joining this team means contributing to a critical mission that upholds the rule of law and protects communities across the United States.