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Counterintelligence Agent Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Counterintelligence Agent information

See Ohio salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do counterintelligence agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for counterintelligence agent in Ohio is $15.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a counterintelligence job?

A counterintelligence job involves detecting, preventing, and investigating espionage, sabotage, and other threats to national security. Counterintelligence agents analyze intelligence data, conduct surveillance, and work to identify foreign spies or threats, often requiring security clearances and specialized training. The role is typically performed within government agencies such as the FBI or CIA and may involve fieldwork, analysis, and collaboration with other security professionals.

What are Counterintelligence Agents?

Counterintelligence Agents are professionals responsible for identifying, investigating, and preventing threats posed by foreign intelligence services or insider threats to national security. They work to detect espionage, sabotage, and other activities that could compromise sensitive information or operations. These agents conduct interviews, analyze intelligence data, monitor suspicious activities, and collaborate with other security agencies to safeguard classified information and protect national interests.

Is counterintelligence CIA or FBI?

Counterintelligence agents can work for both the CIA and FBI, but their roles differ: CIA agents focus on foreign intelligence and espionage, while FBI counterintelligence agents primarily investigate and prevent domestic espionage and threats. Both agencies require specialized training, security clearances, and knowledge of intelligence operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Counterintelligence Agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Counterintelligence Agent, you need a background in criminal justice or security studies, strong analytical abilities, and often a security clearance. Familiarity with surveillance technologies, data analysis software, and intelligence-gathering systems is typically required, along with specialized counterintelligence training or certification. Exceptional interpersonal skills, critical thinking, and discretion are essential for building trust, assessing threats, and handling sensitive information. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively identifying, preventing, and neutralizing threats to national security.

What is the difference between Counterintelligence Agent vs Security Specialist?

AspectCounterintelligence AgentSecurity Specialist
Required CredentialsClearance, background check, sometimes specialized trainingSecurity certifications, background check, training in security protocols
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, intelligence operations, fieldworkCorporate, government, or private security settings
Employer & IndustryIntelligence agencies, defense, national securityPrivate companies, government agencies, security firms
Common Search & ComparisonCounterintelligence Agent vs Security Specialist

While both roles focus on security, Counterintelligence Agents primarily work in intelligence and national security to detect and prevent espionage, often requiring security clearances. Security Specialists typically focus on protecting physical assets and personnel within various environments. The roles overlap in security protocols but differ in scope and operational context.

What is an example of counterintelligence?

An example of counterintelligence is detecting and preventing espionage activities by foreign agents targeting national security information. Counterintelligence agents conduct surveillance, analyze intelligence threats, and identify insider threats to protect sensitive data and operations.

What is the meaning of counter intelligence?

Counterintelligence is the practice of detecting, preventing, and neutralizing espionage, sabotage, or other activities by foreign or domestic adversaries. For a counterintelligence agent, it involves gathering intelligence to identify threats and protect national security interests, often requiring skills in surveillance, analysis, and security protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by Counterintelligence Agents in their daily work?

Counterintelligence Agents often face the challenge of distinguishing between genuine threats and harmless activities, requiring strong analytical and decision-making skills. They must remain vigilant when handling sensitive information and collaborate closely with other security and intelligence professionals, often under time pressure and in high-stakes situations. Adapting quickly to evolving threats and maintaining strict confidentiality are essential for success in this dynamic and demanding role.
What are popular job titles related to Counterintelligence Agent jobs in Ohio? For Counterintelligence Agent jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Counterintelligence Agent jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Counterintelligence Agent jobs in Ohio are:
Infographic showing various Counterintelligence Agent job openings in Ohio as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,829 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Criminal Investigator (Special Agent)

Career Opportunities | USCIS

Cleveland, OH

$91K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Protect your homeland and defend your culture. Join USCIS, America's frontline defense against illegal foreign infiltration and fraud.
As an Criminal Investigator (Special Agent), you will conduct investigations to ensure and protect the integrity of the United States lawful immigration system, and coordinate with USCIS Immigration Officers and other law enforcement agencies to disrupt immigration-related criminal activity.Qualifications:THIS ANNOUNCEMENT SUPPORTS THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE NEW KANSAS CITY CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIVE DIVISION OFFICE LOCATED IN KANSAS CITY, MO. IF YOU APPLY TO THE DUTY STATION OF KANSAS CITY, MO YOU WILL REPORT TO A USCIS BUILDING IN LEES SUMMIT, MO WHILE THE NEW FACILITY IS BEING CONSTRUCTED.
The qualifications for this position must be met by 11:59 PM (Eastern Time) on 06/15/2026.
Current Federal employees must have served 52 weeks at the lower grade or equivalent grade band in the Federal service. The Time-in-Grade requirement must be met by 11:59 PM (Eastern Time) on 06/15/2026.
GS-12: You qualify at the GS-12 level if you possess one (1) year of specialized experience, which is equivalent to at least the GS-11 level in the federal government, that equipped you with the skills needed to successfully perform the duties of the position. You must have experience performing the majority of the following duties:
  • Planning and implementing strategies for the collection and analysis of information to support criminal investigations;
  • Conducting a broad range of investigations in areas such as immigration crimes, fraud, human trafficking, counterintelligence, counter-terrorism or general criminal investigations; and
  • Identifying criminal trends to develop leads and brings investigations to a conclusion for presentation to prosecutors.
GS-13: You qualify at the GS-13 level if you possess one (1) year of specialized experience, which is equivalent to at least the GS-12 level in the federal government, that equipped you with the skills needed to successfully perform the duties of the position. You must have experience performing the majority of the following duties:
  • Leading and providing technical guidance on a broad range of criminal investigations in areas such as immigration crimes, fraud, human trafficking, counterintelligence, counter-terrorism, or other multi-jurisdictional criminal investigations;
  • Identifying criminal trends to develop leads and brings investigations to a conclusion for presentation to prosecutors; and
  • Serving as a mentor as it relates to criminal investigations and federal criminal laws.
Please read the following important information to ensure you submit everything we need to consider your application: It is your responsibility to ensure that you submit your responses and appropriate documentation prior to 06/15/2026. You must upload your resume under the "Resume" category. Resumes submitted under the "Other Documents" category will not be considered. Your most recently submitted resume will be used to determine your qualifications for the position advertised in this announcement. Therefore, your resume must highlight your most relevant, significant experience related to the requirements found in the qualification section of this announcement, as well as any applicable education. Limit your resume to no more than two pages. The USAJOBS database will not allow an applicant to submit an application that includes a resume over two pages. To help ensure your resume remains clear and easy to read, we recommend using margins of at least 0.8 inches and a font size of at least 11 point. Be clear and specific when describing your work history since Human Resources cannot make assumptions regarding your experience. Your application will be rated and ranked based on your responses to the online questions.
Please ensure EACH work history includes ALL of the following information:
  • Job Title (include series and grade if Federal Job)
  • Duties (be specific in describing your duties)
  • Employer's name and address
  • Supervisor name and phone number
  • Start and end dates including month, day and year (e.g. June 18 2007 to April 05 2008)
  • Start and end dates for each grade/pay level if you've held a federal position.
  • Full-time or part-time status (include hours worked per week)
  • Salary
Determining length of General or Specialized Experience is dependent on the above information and failure to provide the above information may result in a finding of ineligible.
Note: Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or application questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration.
Federal Experience: If you are using current or prior federal experience as a basis for qualifying for this position, the grade levels and length of employment (mm/dd/year) at each grade level must be listed in your work history. This information will be further validated if selected for this position.
National Service Experience (i.e., volunteer experience): Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build criteria competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer service.
Reasonable Accommodation (RA) Requests: If you believe you have a disability (i.e., physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended that would interfere with completing the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, you will be granted the opportunity to request a RA in your online application. Requests for RA for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments and appropriate supporting documentation for RA must be received prior to starting the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Decisions on requests for RA are made on a case-by-case basis. If you meet the minimum qualifications of the position, after notification of the adjudication of your request, you will receive an email invitation to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, based on your adjudication decision. You must complete all assessments within 48 hours of receiving the URL to access the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if you received the link after the close of the announcement. To determine if you need a RA, please review the Procedures for Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for Online Assessments. (https://appsupport.usastaffing.gov/hc/en-us/sections/28980686389652-Reasonable-Accommodation-Inform...)
Education:EDUCATIONAL SUBSTITUTION: There is no educational substitution at these grade levels.

The Fraud Detection and National Security Directorate (FDNS) was established within USCIS to strengthen national security and the integrity of the country's legal immigration system by closely aligning the adjudication of immigration benefits and services with the identification of potential threats to national security and/or public safety, the detection and deterrence of fraud, and the use of law enforcement and intelligence information to ensure optimal security for U.S. communities. FDNS systematically identifies updates, and records indicators of fraudulent activities; manages fraud cases; identifies vulnerabilities and other weaknesses that compromise the integrity of the legal immigration system; and coordinates and provides logistical support in law enforcement and national security matters. FDNS is the primary conduit for information sharing and collaboration with law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

Training: Selected candidates will report to their duty location and will later be required to attend and successfully complete the Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP) and the FDNS Special Agent Training (FDNS SAT) located at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. These trainings are approximately 21 weeks in total and located in multiple locations. Failure to meet the minimum course requirements for any of the training programs is grounds for removal from the position or separation by appropriate procedures. Certificate of successful completion of CITP or another approved program at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, or a substantially similar program as approved by the Secretary or the Secretary's designee to being authorized to exercise the powers set forth in 40 U.S.C. 1315 (b)(2). After successful completion of training you may be assigned to another location based on the Agency's need.
Applicant Physical Abilities Test (APAT): A pre-employment Physical Fitness Test (PFT) may be administered. A passing score is required. If you have failed a PFT, you are not eligible for consideration for 12 months from the closing date of the announcement in which you applied that required the PFT. Additionally, a PFT will also be administered at FLETC during training. Every trainee must pass the PFT during training.
Medical Requirements: You may be required to complete a pre-employment medical examination and be found to meet the medical standards for this position.
Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 21 years of age by the closing date of this announcement. This position has a maximum-age requirement. In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 3307 candidates must apply before reaching their 37th birthday.
Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP): This position may require substantial amounts of irregular or occasional overtime. You will be required to work on an unscheduled basis in excess of the 40-hour workweek. You must be readily available to perform this unscheduled overtime on a continual basis.
Firearms Requirement: You will be required to carry a firearm while performing duties of this position. Maintaining firearm proficiency is also mandatory. You must satisfactorily complete (or have previously completed) the firearms component of the Criminal Investigation Training Program at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. Any person who has been convicted of a crime of domestic violence cannot lawfully possess a firearm or ammunition. Candidates under consideration will be required to certify whether they have ever been convicted of such an offense. False or fraudulent information provided by candidates is criminally punishable by fine or imprisonment.
Work Conditions: This job requires physical strength and stamina to perform such activities as conducting long periods of surveillance, pursuing and restraining suspects, and carrying heavy equipment to be uses in investigative efforts. These activities require considerable physical exertion, such as running, stooping, bending, climbing, lifting and carrying heavy objects. The environment involves work indoors and outdoors in a variety of potentially dangerous and stressful situations, as well as exposure to physical attack, including the use of lethal weapons.
Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment (VSIP): Per 5 CFR 576.202, An employee who receives a Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment (VSIP) and later accepts employment for compensation with the Government of the United States within 5 years of the date of the separation on which the VSIP is based, including work under a personal services contract or other direct contract, must repay the entire amount of the VSIP to the agency that paid it (proof of payment is required) before the individual's first day of reemployment.

Employment Type: OTHER