Launch Your Federal Career: Staff Assistant at the DEA
Are you looking for a career that combines organizational skill with a vital national mission? The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is currently hiring for a Staff Assistant position within their Office of Administrative Law Judges. This is a unique opportunity to support legal and administrative operations in a high-impact environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Assistant, you will serve as the primary point of administrative management for the office. Your daily duties will include:
- Advising staff on procedural and administrative actions.
- Drafting and reviewing official correspondence for clarity and accuracy.
- Managing complex office calendars and travel itineraries for visiting officials.
- Tracking sensitive administrative suspense correspondence to ensure deadlines are met.
- Participating in special projects to improve office efficiency.
Qualification Comparison
| Feature | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Req. | 1 Year at GS-07 equivalent | 1 Year at GS-09 equivalent |
| Education Path | Master's or 2 years grad study | Ph.D. or 3 years grad study |
| Focus | Routine support & reporting | Sophisticated tracking & coordination |
Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate specialized experience or a combination of education and experience. Key competencies include:
- Attention to Detail: Managing flow of documents without errors.
- Technical Proficiency: Using tracking systems to manage deadlines.
- Integrity: Maintaining the high standards expected by the Department of Justice.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $70,623 to $111,087 per year. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including health insurance, generous retirement plans, and paid leave.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Stick to the two-page resume limit. Quality is more important than quantity.
- Highlight Achievements: Quantify your experience with specific examples of administrative improvements you have made in previous roles.
- Complete Assessments: Don't delay once you receive your link to the USA Hire assessments.
If you are an organized professional ready to support the critical mission of the DEA, this Staff Assistant role is your pathway to a meaningful career in the federal government. Prepare your application materials today and take the next step.
Why This Staff Assistant Job Matters
Join the front lines of justice with the DEA and play a pivotal role in the Administrative Law Judge office. Your organizational expertise will help shape the efficiency of vital national security operations.
Staff Assistant Job Overview
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is seeking a dedicated Staff Assistant to provide high-level administrative support within the Office of Administrative Law Judges in Arlington, Virginia. In this role, you will be the backbone of daily operations, ensuring that reports, correspondence, and travel logistics are managed with precision. This position is perfect for an organized professional who thrives in a mission-driven environment and wants to contribute to a safer America.
Requirements for Staff Assistant
- One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 (for GS-9) or GS-09 (for GS-11) grade level.
- Ability to manage flow of staff papers, reports, and recommendations.
- Proficiency in tracking incoming correspondence and managing strict deadlines.
- Experience in coordinating complex travel arrangements and itineraries.
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Must pass a mandatory drug screening.
- Submission of a resume no longer than two pages.
- Completion of the USA Hire assessment process.
Preferred Qualifications for Staff Assistant
- Master's degree or Ph.D. in a relevant field.
- Demonstrated experience in a legal or high-stakes administrative office environment.
- Strong proficiency in correspondence management and document review for clarity and policy compliance.
- Excellent interpersonal and decision-making skills in a fast-paced setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave
- ✓Potential for telework opportunities
- ✓Ongoing professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Staff Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Staff Assistant Job
- Review the full job announcement and gather all required documentation.
- Prepare a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
- Click the Apply Online link and complete the mandatory questionnaires.
- Submit your application and required supporting documents before the closing date.
- Check your email for instructions regarding USA Hire assessments.
- Complete all required assessments within the provided timeframe.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any document exceeding two pages will be disqualified.
- Ensure your SF-50 forms clearly show time-in-grade if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Address the four free-response essay questions thoughtfully, as they provide great context for the hiring manager.
- Do not use AI tools to generate your responses, as you will be required to certify that the work is your own.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical work schedule for this position?
This position is a full-time role located in Arlington, Virginia, with potential for telework options subject to supervisory approval.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance as a condition of employment.
Can I submit a long resume to highlight all my experience?
No, your resume must be no more than two pages in length. Resumes exceeding this limit will be automatically removed from consideration.
Job from Drug Enforcement Administration
The Drug Enforcement Administration is the nation's premier law enforcement agency focused on enforcing controlled substance laws. DEA employees are united by a challenging mission: keeping Americans safe from the impacts of drug trafficking. Joining the DEA means becoming part of a diverse, collaborative team where your daily work directly supports national security.