Launch Your Federal Career as a Printing Specialist with the DEA

Are you a professional with an eye for detail and a knack for print production? The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is offering a unique opportunity for an experienced Printing Specialist to join their Financial Management Division in Arlington, Virginia. This role is more than just operating machinery; it is about ensuring that vital, mission-critical documentation is produced to the highest standards.

Job Responsibilities

As a Printing Specialist, you will act as a key liaison between the agency's needs and the physical production of materials. Your daily tasks will include:

Consulting with stakeholders on print product quality, paper stock, and layout.
Troubleshooting complex print shop equipment, including digital presses, collators, and binding machines.
Analyzing costs and managing production schedules to ensure timely delivery.
Performing preventive maintenance on hardware to minimize downtime.
Utilizing Adobe Creative Suite to refine and prepare print-ready files.

Requirements

Candidates must meet specific federal requirements to be considered. This includes:

Experience: Applicants must demonstrate specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 or GS-07 grade levels, depending on the entry level.
Education: If using education to qualify, official transcripts are mandatory.
Documents: A strict two-page limit on resumes is enforced; any document exceeding this length will be discarded.
Assessments: Completion of the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments is a non-negotiable step in the hiring process.

Comparison: GS-07 vs GS-09 Qualification Paths

Feature	GS-07 Entry	GS-09 Entry
Focus	Assisting with maintenance & advising	Final approval & high-level oversight
Education	Bachelor's Degree / Superior Achievement	Master's Degree / 2 years of Graduate Study
Experience	1 year at GS-05 equivalent	1 year at GS-07 equivalent

Salary Overview

This position offers a base salary of $57,736 per year. Federal compensation packages also include stability, competitive leave policies, and comprehensive retirement benefits.

Benefits

Retirement: Excellent federal pension plans and the Thrift Savings Plan.
Insurance: Extensive choices for health, dental, and vision coverage.
Security: A professional environment within the Department of Justice.

Application Tips

Be Concise: Your resume is your first impression. Keep it to two pages.
Prepare for Assessments: Use the practice materials found on the OPM USA Hire website.
Stay Organized: Ensure your SF-50 forms match your claims to avoid delays in processing.

If you are ready to apply your technical printing skills to support a vital federal mission, the Printing Specialist role at the DEA is an excellent path forward. Ensure you have your documentation ready and apply before the closing date.

Why This Printing Specialist Job Matters

Transform complex information into high-impact visual products as a Printing Specialist with the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Printing Specialist Job Overview

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is seeking a detail-oriented Printing Specialist for their Print Production Studio in Arlington, Virginia. In this role, you will be the backbone of agency communications, managing the lifecycle of essential printed materials, from high-level correspondence and analytical reports to informational brochures. You will play a crucial role in maintaining the agency's operational efficiency by overseeing production equipment, managing vendor contracts, and ensuring that all printed output meets rigorous quality standards.

Requirements for Printing Specialist

U.S. Citizenship.
Must be able to pass a background check and obtain a Secret security clearance.
Submission of a resume limited to a maximum of two pages.
Completion of all required USA Hire assessments within the specified timeframe.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 level (for GS-07) or GS-07 level (for GS-09).
Submission of transcripts if qualifying based on education.
Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and meet strict deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications for Printing Specialist

Experience with Adobe Creative Suite and MS Office applications.
Proven background in print shop equipment operation and troubleshooting.
Superior Academic Achievement (GPA of 3.0 or higher) for entry-level candidates.
Previous experience managing printing contracts and vendor relations.
Knowledge of print production techniques, including binding, collating, and guillotine cutting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
✓Paid annual and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Life and long-term care insurance programs.

💡 How to Apply Printing Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Printing Specialist Job

Review the full job announcement on USAJobs to ensure eligibility.
Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting relevant experience.
Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Upload all necessary documents, including transcripts and SF-50 forms.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Monitor email for the invitation to the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
Complete the required assessments within the designated 48-hour window.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
Focus your resume on quantifying your achievements rather than just listing duties.
Set aside at least three hours of uninterrupted time for the USA Hire Assessments.
Use the practice assessments provided by the OPM resource center before you start.
Double-check that all SF-50 forms clearly demonstrate your time-in-grade.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of this Printing Specialist role?

You will manage the entire print production lifecycle, from consulting with agency clients on project specifications to operating digital presses and maintaining equipment, ensuring that all reports and informational materials are produced accurately and efficiently.

Is telework available for this position?

Currently, this position is not listed as eligible for telework.

What kind of security clearance is required?

This position requires a Secret level security clearance, which necessitates a thorough background investigation.

What if I have a disability?

The DEA provides reasonable accommodations for the assessment process. Requests should be made early in the application phase.

How often is my status updated?

Your status will be updated on USAJobs during four key milestones: receipt, qualification assessment, referral, and final selection.

Job from Drug Enforcement Administration

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is the premier agency dedicated to enforcing the controlled substance laws of the United States. Working at the DEA means being part of a larger mission that protects the quality of life for all Americans. Employees are valued for their commitment to excellence, integrity, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment.