Become a Criminal Investigator with the U.S. Department of Labor

Are you ready to take your law enforcement career to the federal level? The Department of Labor’s Division of Protective Operations (DPO) is currently seeking highly motivated Criminal Investigators to serve in Washington, D.C. This role is pivotal in safeguarding the nation’s labor leadership and ensuring the integrity of federal security operations.

Job Responsibilities

As a Criminal Investigator (GS-11 to GS-13), your duties will be diverse and challenging. You will be expected to:

Provide executive protection to the Secretary and other high-level officials.
Plan and execute complex criminal investigations and gather intelligence.
Coordinate with major federal agencies like the FBI and U.S. Secret Service.
Analyze testimonies, manage evidence, and maintain a strict chain of custody.
Perform emergency response actions to protect personnel under duress.

Comparison: Grade Levels

Grade	Experience Requirement	Key Focus
GS-11	52 weeks at GS-9 level	Operational support and core training
GS-12	52 weeks at GS-11 level	Independent field operations and investigations
GS-13	52 weeks at GS-12 level	Advanced investigative strategy and leadership

Requirements

Candidates must meet stringent criteria, including:

Age Limit: Must enter duty before reaching 37 years of age (exceptions apply for veterans and prior LEO service).
Medical/Physical: Must be physically fit to perform arduous duties, including the use of firearms and exposure to inclement weather.
Clearance: Must successfully obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance.
Experience: Candidates must possess 52 weeks of specialized federal experience at the grade level immediately below the target position.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range starting at $87,814 and extending to $162,708 per year, commensurate with your qualifications and grade level.

Benefits

Working with the Department of Labor comes with comprehensive federal benefits, including:

Health, vision, and dental insurance options.
Lucrative federal retirement pension plans.
Paid annual and sick leave.
Ongoing training and professional growth opportunities.

Application Tips

Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be strictly limited to two pages.
Documentation is Key: Have your SF-50 and transcripts ready before starting.
Prepare for Assessment: You will likely need to take the USA Hire assessment; visit their resource center for practice tools.
Detail Everything: When listing past experience, include the number of hours worked per week and specific dates.

Serving as a Criminal Investigator with the Department of Labor is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the security and stability of our nation’s executive operations. If you possess the specialized investigative skills and dedication required, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date.

Why This Criminal Investigator Job Matters

Protect the leadership of the Department of Labor and engage in high-stakes investigative operations at the heart of the U.S. federal government.

Criminal Investigator Job Overview

The Department of Labor's Division of Protective Operations is seeking highly skilled Criminal Investigators (GS-11 through GS-13) to join their specialized team in Washington, D.C. This role is essential for ensuring the safety and security of the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, and other designated officials. You will conduct complex investigations, manage protective details, and handle sensitive security matters in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment.

Requirements for Criminal Investigator

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must meet the maximum entry age requirement of 37 (waivers available for certain veterans or prior law enforcement).
Must pass a comprehensive pre-employment medical examination and fitness requirements.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information security clearance.
Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Must possess or be willing to attend and complete required federal law enforcement training, such as the Criminal Investigative Training Program (CITP).
Must provide a resume limited to two pages total.
Must have 52 weeks of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.

Preferred Qualifications for Criminal Investigator

Experience in executive protective operations and protective surveys.
Proven history of developing operational plans for sensitive investigations.
Proficiency in interviewing witnesses, victims, and interrogating suspects.
Experience in intelligence collection, surveillance planning, and modern investigative technologies.
Demonstrated ability to coordinate with other federal agencies, including the FBI and U.S. Secret Service.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with career ladder potential.
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid time off, including federal holidays, annual, and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
✓Telework eligibility as permitted by agency policy and management.

💡 How to Apply Criminal Investigator Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Criminal Investigator Job

Create a profile on USAJOBS and prepare a federal resume (maximum 2 pages).
Submit your initial application via USAJOBS including all required documentation.
Complete the secondary application process on the Department of Labor's portal, including responding to vacancy-specific questions.
Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as SF-50s, transcripts, and veterans' preference documents.
Complete the mandatory USA Hire competency assessments if prompted by the agency.
Verify your application status via the agency Talent Acquisition System (TAS).

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly details the month, year, and hours worked per week for every position to clearly demonstrate your specialized experience.
Submit all required documents (especially the SF-50) early to allow time for the automated virus scan process.
Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, as this will result in immediate disqualification.
Review your responses to the assessment questionnaire carefully, ensuring your resume provides evidence for your claims.
Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice and prepare before taking the assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote work position?

No, this is not a remote position. The selected candidate will report to an assigned Department of Labor office in Washington, D.C., though telework may be authorized based on management policy.

What are the age requirements for this position?

Applicants must generally be under the age of 37 at the time of appointment. Exceptions may be made for individuals with prior service in a federal law enforcement position covered by special retirement provisions or for qualifying veterans.

Can I submit a longer resume if I have extensive experience?

No. Per current Department of Labor policy, your resume must be limited to two pages. Any submission exceeding this length will result in the application being deemed ineligible.

Job from Office Of The Assistant Secretary For Administration And Management

The Department of Labor (DOL) is dedicated to protecting the welfare of workers, improving working conditions, and expanding employment opportunities. The Division of Protective Operations specifically focuses on the physical security and protection of the Secretary and Deputy Secretary of Labor. Working for the DOL means contributing to a noble, national mission while growing your career within a prestigious federal framework.