Launch Your Career as a U.S. Coast Guard Criminal Investigator
Are you looking for a career that combines public service, law enforcement, and the protection of America's maritime interests? The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is currently seeking experienced and highly motivated individuals for the position of Criminal Investigator. Working within the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS), you will handle complex felony investigations and internal affairs in a fast-paced environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Criminal Investigator, your daily tasks will be diverse and challenging. You will:
- Conduct investigations into violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).
- Perform undercover surveillance and execute search and seizure operations.
- Provide force protection services for USCG personnel and assets.
- Collaborate with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
- Gather intelligence to support investigative and analytical efforts.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-9/11 position, you must meet several federal requirements, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.
- A successful pre-employment drug test and medical examination.
- Signing a mobility agreement, acknowledging your willingness to relocate based on agency needs.
- Compliance with the Lautenberg Amendment regarding domestic violence convictions.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GS-9 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Supports minor investigations | Performs complex undercover & surveillance |
| Responsibility | Applies basic investigative principles | Reconstructs evidence & sequences events |
| Requirements | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-7 | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-9 |
Salary Overview
Qualified candidates can expect a starting salary range of $61,722 to $97,087 per year, depending on the specific location and pay locality adjustments. Additionally, the agency offers a 10% recruitment incentive for newly appointed federal employees.
Benefits
Working for the DHS comes with a premium benefits package, including:
- Extensive health, vision, and dental coverage.
- Participation in the federal retirement system and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Flexible work schedules and ample leave time.
- Opportunities for specialized federal law enforcement training.
Application Tips
- Watch the Resume Length: Keep your document to exactly two pages. The system will discard any resume exceeding this limit.
- Be Specific: List your hours per week for each job to ensure your experience counts correctly.
- Prepare for Assessments: Clear your schedule for the USA Hire assessment, which may take up to three hours.
Joining the CGIS as a Criminal Investigator is a significant career move for those committed to public safety. With nationwide locations and the ability to grow your skills in a high-impact environment, this role offers both stability and excitement. Ensure you review all requirements carefully and submit your application well before the deadline to be considered.
Why This Criminal Investigator Job Matters
Protect our nation's maritime security as a federal criminal investigator with the U.S. Coast Guard—a career where your vigilance directly safeguards American interests.
Criminal Investigator Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS) is seeking highly motivated individuals to join as Criminal Investigators. This role is responsible for conducting complex investigations into felony violations, internal misconduct, and federal maritime statutes. As a federal law enforcement officer, you will play a critical role in intelligence gathering, protective service operations, and ensuring the safety of maritime systems. This is an open-continuous announcement for positions across multiple national locations, offering a rewarding career path in federal service.
Requirements for Criminal Investigator
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must meet Selective Service registration requirements.
- Must pass a pre-employment medical examination.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must possess a valid state driver's license.
- Must be willing to sign a mobility agreement for future reassignments.
- Must carry firearms and maintain proficiency as a federal law enforcement officer.
- Maximum entry age: Applicants must not have reached their 37th birthday by the date of appointment (with some exceptions for prior federal law enforcement service).
- Must certify under the Lautenberg Amendment regarding misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence.
Preferred Qualifications for Criminal Investigator
- Previous experience planning and conducting criminal investigations.
- Knowledge of federal law enforcement principles and investigative procedures.
- Experience in protective service operations or undercover/surveillance assignments.
- Demonstrated ability to reconstruct events and sequence evidence effectively.
- Strong interpersonal skills for networking and collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- ✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave.
- ✓Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and professional development.
- ✓Access to fitness centers and wellness programs.
- ✓Recruitment/Relocation incentives available for qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply Criminal Investigator Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Criminal Investigator Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
- Complete the required online assessment if notified.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
- Respond to any interview invitations following the selection process.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes start and end dates (mm/yy) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Do not include personal information like SSN, date of birth, or photos on your resume.
- The 2-page limit for your resume is strictly enforced; applications exceeding this will be automatically disqualified.
- Be prepared for a 3-hour window to complete the USA Hire assessment.
- Use your own words in the vacancy questionnaire; do not use AI or consultants to draft your responses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit for this position?
Yes, applicants must not have reached their 37th birthday by the date of appointment, though exceptions exist for those with prior federal law enforcement service.
Does this role require travel?
Yes, as an investigative role, you will be required to travel and move as deemed necessary by the Coast Guard, contingent upon a signed mobility agreement.
What level of security clearance is required?
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret clearance and successfully pass a pre-employment polygraph.
Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?
Yes, this announcement is open to the public.
What is the maximum entry age?
Generally, applicants must be under 37 years old at the time of appointment.
Job from U.S. Coast Guard
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is dedicated to securing our nation against diverse threats. The U.S. Coast Guard serves as a primary component in this mission, safeguarding borders, protecting ports, and enforcing maritime law around the globe. As a civilian criminal investigator, you will join a specialized team committed to integrity, excellence, and the rule of law.