Rejoin the Mission: Career Opportunities as an ICE Criminal Investigator

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) invite experienced professionals to return to public service. If you are a retired federal annuitant looking to utilize your skills in a high-stakes environment, the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) is currently seeking candidates for Criminal Investigator (GS-14) positions. This is a unique opportunity to contribute your expertise to a critical federal mission.

Job Responsibilities

As a Criminal Investigator, you will perform high-level duties, including:

Conducting complex criminal investigations regarding internal and external misconduct.
Interviewing suspects and witnesses to gather actionable intelligence.
Overseeing surveillance operations in diverse, potentially high-stress environments.
Preparing affidavits for search and seizure warrants.
Advising agency leadership on investigative techniques and operational efficacy.

Requirements

Candidates must be retired federal annuitants (excluding those with early voluntary or buyout retirements). You must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level, demonstrate physical stamina for rigorous fieldwork, and be capable of passing a Top Secret background investigation. Firearms proficiency is a mandatory requirement for this role.

Salary and Comparison

Compensation is determined by the General Schedule (GS) scale and reflects the high level of responsibility required for these positions.

Feature	Details
Position Grade	GS-14
Salary Range	$125,776 - $192,694/year
Appointment Type	Term (5 years)
Security Clearance	Top Secret

Benefits

Employees receive a robust federal benefits package, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and retirement plans.
Paid federal holidays and personal leave.
Flexible work schedules and telework options.
Access to tuition reimbursement and fitness facilities.

Application Tips

To stand out, ensure your resume is limited to two pages and focuses on tangible results rather than general descriptions. Thoroughly document your previous 1811 series experience through SF-50 forms. Utilize the free-response questions in the questionnaire to highlight your passion for public service.

This role is designed for seasoned professionals who want to make a meaningful difference. If you possess the experience and drive required to protect our nation, apply today through the official USAJOBS portal.

Why This Criminal Investigator (Reemployed Annuitant & Ctap/Ictap/Rpl) (Term Appointment) Job Matters

Ready to rejoin the mission? Utilize your federal investigative expertise to help secure the nation as a Criminal Investigator with ICE's Office of Professional Responsibility.

Criminal Investigator (Reemployed Annuitant & Ctap/Ictap/Rpl) (Term Appointment) Job Overview

The Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is seeking experienced, retired annuitants to fill critical Criminal Investigator (GS-14) roles. These term appointments offer a unique opportunity for qualified individuals to return to service, supporting the Office of Professional Responsibility in its mission to uphold integrity and national security. This initiative specifically seeks candidates eligible for dual compensation waivers to serve in a high-impact capacity.

Requirements for Criminal Investigator (Reemployed Annuitant & Ctap/Ictap/Rpl) (Term Appointment)

Must be a retired federal annuitant (excluding early voluntary or buyout retirements).
Must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
Ability to conduct complex investigations, lead investigative teams, and gather intelligence.
Must maintain firearm proficiency and successfully complete the Criminal Investigation Training Program.
Ability to pass a pre-employment medical examination.
Must undergo and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Willingness to submit to pre-employment and random drug testing.
Physical ability to perform tasks such as surveillance, pursuing suspects, and lifting heavy equipment.

Preferred Qualifications for Criminal Investigator (Reemployed Annuitant & Ctap/Ictap/Rpl) (Term Appointment)

Extensive history of conducting investigations related to financial, trade, or immigration crimes.
Proven track record of success in interagency, international, or multijurisdictional inquiries.
Strong decision-making skills in high-stress, potentially dangerous environments.
Experience managing sensitive field operations and coordinating with diverse law enforcement partners.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with potential locality pay adjustments.
✓Full federal salary and annuity (for those granted a dual compensation waiver).
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Life and long-term care insurance.
✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
✓Access to fitness centers and wellness programs.
✓Paid federal holidays and leave benefits.

💡 How to Apply Criminal Investigator (Reemployed Annuitant & Ctap/Ictap/Rpl) (Term Appointment) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Criminal Investigator (Reemployed Annuitant & Ctap/Ictap/Rpl) (Term Appointment) Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a concise 2-page resume highlighting specific investigative accomplishments.
Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire via the USA Staffing portal.
Submit your resume, SF-50 forms (for annuitants), and any relevant veteran or priority documentation.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessment within the designated timeframe.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Limit your resume to exactly two pages; additional pages will not be reviewed.
Focus on your specific actions and results rather than copying job descriptions.
Clearly document your federal law enforcement history in your SF-50 submissions.
Ensure your email address is active, as all communications regarding assessments and interviews will be sent electronically.
Set aside roughly two hours to complete the USA Hire assessment in one or multiple sittings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 'Term Appointment' mean?

It is a time-limited appointment that lasts for 5 years and 1 day, which may be extended based on agency operational needs.

Am I eligible for a salary offset waiver?

This announcement is specifically targeted at CSRS and FERS annuitants. Eligibility for a dual compensation waiver is assessed based on specific agency criteria and the requirements of the hire.

Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement

ICE is the premier investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security. With over 20,000 employees globally, ICE serves as a vital component in protecting the United States from cross-border threats, including illegal immigration, financial crimes, and terrorism. The Office of Professional Responsibility plays a key role in upholding the integrity of these missions, ensuring that all operations meet the highest standards of accountability.