Lead as a Supervisory Criminal Investigator for the USDA Forest Service
Are you looking to advance your career in federal law enforcement? The USDA Forest Service is currently accepting applications for the role of Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Regional Special Agent in Charge) in Lakewood, Colorado. This high-level position offers the chance to lead regional investigations, mentor specialized teams, and protect our nation’s vast natural resources.
Job Responsibilities
As the Regional Special Agent in Charge, you will act as the top-line law enforcement officer for the region. Key duties include:
- Strategic Oversight: Formulating long-range policies to address complex investigative challenges.
- Operational Leadership: Coordinating across organizational units to ensure investigative effectiveness.
- Technical Expertise: Serving as an agency spokesperson during briefings, workshops, and critical public meetings.
- Program Management: Ensuring compliance with departmental requirements and developing internal controls to strengthen program accountability.
Requirements
This is a senior-level position requiring specialized experience and physical fitness. You must meet the following criteria:
- Law Enforcement Experience: Documented history in investigating federal criminal offenses.
- Selective Placement: At least three years in a position with Primary/Rigorous law enforcement retirement coverage.
- Medical & Physical: Must maintain the ability to lift heavy objects, perform under pressure, and pass medical/hearing/vision standards.
- Firearms: Ability to qualify and carry a USDA-issued firearm semiannually.
Comparison Table: GS-14 vs GS-15 Experience Requirements
| Feature | GS-14 Level | GS-15 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Project coordination & technical guidance | Policy direction & agency-wide integration |
| Scope | Regional investigation oversight | Interdisciplinary team leadership & strategy |
| Reporting | Managing regional reporting systems | Ensuring national/regional mission alignment |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is between $144,128 and $197,200 annually. Employees receive the standard suite of federal government benefits, including:
- Exceptional health insurance plans.
- Federal retirement benefits (FERS/CSRS).
- Paid leave programs.
- Opportunities for specialized training.
Application Tips
- Mind the Limit: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Over-length resumes are automatically disqualified.
- Detail Your Service: Use your resume to clearly explain your previous law enforcement retirement coverage to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
- Submit Early: Do not wait until the deadline to upload your documents, as system volume can increase significantly.
Serving as a Regional Special Agent in Charge is a significant responsibility that offers profound rewards for the right professional. If you meet the rigorous qualifications and are prepared to lead in a dynamic law enforcement environment, review the full announcement on USAJOBS today.
Why This Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Regional Special Agent In Charge) Job Matters
Are you a seasoned law enforcement leader ready to shape the future of federal investigations? Lead the charge as a Special Agent in Charge for the USDA Forest Service in Lakewood, Colorado.
Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Regional Special Agent In Charge) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking a high-level Supervisory Criminal Investigator to serve as the Regional Special Agent in Charge (SAC). This pivotal role involves overseeing law enforcement operations, managing complex investigations, and formulating strategic policies to protect our nation's most critical natural resources. If you are a dedicated professional with a background in rigorous federal law enforcement, this is your opportunity to lead a regional team at the GS-14 or GS-15 level.
Requirements for Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Regional Special Agent In Charge)
- Must have prior law enforcement experience in investigating, apprehending, or detecting individuals suspected of federal criminal offenses.
- Must meet the Selective Placement Factor: At least three years of service in a position approved for Rigorous or Primary Law Enforcement retirement coverage.
- Must possess emotional and mental stability suitable for high-pressure environments.
- Must be able to carry a firearm and meet semiannual qualification standards.
- Must meet stringent medical and physical fitness standards, including hearing and vision requirements.
- Must be under the age of 37 at the time of appointment, unless eligible for a waiver as a veteran or through prior federal civilian law enforcement experience.
- Must not have any convictions for domestic violence (Lautenberg Amendment).
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Regional Special Agent In Charge)
- Extensive experience in directing complex, sensitive criminal investigations.
- Proven track record in policy formulation, strategic planning, and operational management at a regional or national level.
- Expertise in acting as a departmental spokesperson for high-stakes investigative programs.
- Demonstrated ability to lead interdisciplinary teams and manage cross-jurisdictional cooperation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with step increases.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the USDA.
- ✓Access to the Federal Employees' Retirement System (FERS) including Law Enforcement retirement provisions.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Regional Special Agent In Charge) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Criminal Investigator (Regional Special Agent In Charge) Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a concise resume (strictly limited to two pages) highlighting your relevant experience.
- Gather necessary documentation, including SF-50 forms, transcripts, and performance appraisals.
- Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire via the provided application link.
- Upload all required supporting documents in a compatible format (PDF, Word, etc.) before the closing date.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; applications exceeding this length will be rejected.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the 'specialized experience' required for the grade level you are seeking.
- Double-check your supporting documents for readability; encrypted or portfolio-style files are not accepted.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.
- Clearly document your previous law enforcement coverage to verify your eligibility for secondary law enforcement retirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of this role?
The Regional Special Agent in Charge (SAC) serves as the top law enforcement officer for the region, managing investigative staff, setting policies, and coordinating cross-jurisdictional law enforcement efforts.
Is there a specific age limit for this position?
Yes. Generally, the maximum entry age is 37, unless you are a preference-eligible veteran or have specific prior federal law enforcement experience that grants a waiver.
Can I work remotely?
No, this position is not eligible for telework or remote status.
What is the Lautenberg Amendment?
*A: It refers to the Gun Control Act of 1968, as amended in 1996, which prohibits individuals convicted of domestic violence crimes from holding positions that require carrying a firearm.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: Relocation assistance is not offered for this specific vacancy.*
Job from Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service is tasked with the stewardship of over 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Beyond land management, the agency maintains a robust Law Enforcement & Investigations (LEI) division responsible for ensuring the safety of visitors, employees, and the natural environment. Working with the Forest Service means joining a dedicated team committed to public service and environmental integrity.