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$91

$192

How much do dea government jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for dea government in the United States is $91.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51.92 and $192.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by DEA agents in their daily work?

DEA agents often encounter high-pressure situations, including undercover operations, surveillance, and managing confidential informants. Balancing safety with effective law enforcement is a daily challenge, as agents must make quick decisions in potentially dangerous environments. Additionally, the role requires frequent collaboration with other local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, which can involve navigating complex inter-agency protocols and communication. Adaptability, strong teamwork, and strict adherence to legal and ethical guidelines are essential for success in this position.

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

To thrive as a DEA Special Agent, you need a bachelor’s degree (often in criminal justice or a related field), strong investigative abilities, and a clean background check. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, surveillance equipment, and firearms certification is typically required. Exceptional communication, analytical thinking, and resilience under pressure are key soft skills that enhance performance in high-stakes environments. These competencies are vital for effective enforcement of drug laws, conducting complex investigations, and ensuring public safety.

What qualifications do I need to work for the DEA?

To work for the DEA, applicants typically need a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and must pass background checks and drug testing. Some positions require specialized skills such as language proficiency, law enforcement training, or technical expertise, and candidates must be U.S. citizens and meet age requirements.

What is the difference between Dea Government vs Customs Agent?

AspectDea GovernmentCustoms Agent
Required CredentialsDEA registration, background check, possibly security clearanceCustoms broker license, knowledge of import/export laws
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, field operations, law enforcement settingsPorts, border crossings, shipping facilities
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Justice, law enforcement agenciesCustoms agencies, private import/export companies

Dea Government professionals focus on enforcing drug laws and investigating illegal substances, often working in law enforcement environments. Customs Agents handle import/export compliance, inspecting shipments at borders and ports. While both roles require knowledge of federal regulations and security procedures, Dea Government roles are more law enforcement-oriented, whereas Customs Agents specialize in trade compliance and border security.

Do DEA agents make good money?

DEA agents typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, location, and rank, with starting salaries often around $50,000 to $70,000 annually and increasing with seniority. They may also receive benefits such as overtime pay, hazard pay, and retirement options. Overall, DEA agents are considered to have a stable and well-paying law enforcement career.

What are DEA agents and what do they do?

DEA agents are special agents who work for the Drug Enforcement Administration, a federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Justice. Their main job is to enforce the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States. This includes investigating drug trafficking organizations, dismantling illegal drug operations, and working with other law enforcement agencies both domestically and internationally. DEA agents often conduct undercover operations, make arrests, and testify in court. Their work is critical in preventing the distribution and abuse of dangerous drugs.

Is it hard to get hired by DEA?

Getting hired by the DEA can be competitive due to strict requirements, including a background check, drug test, and physical fitness standards. Candidates often need relevant education, law enforcement experience, or specialized skills, and the hiring process can be lengthy and rigorous.

Does the DEA work for the government?

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a federal law enforcement agency that operates under the U.S. Department of Justice. DEA agents work for the government to enforce controlled substance laws and regulations, often requiring specialized training and security clearances.
More about Dea Government jobs
What states have the most Dea Government jobs? States with the most job openings for Dea Government jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Dea Government jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Dea Government jobs are:
Dea Government jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dea Government job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $190,214 per year, or $91.4 per hour.
Senior Law Clerk Supporting the DEA with Security Clearance

Senior Law Clerk Supporting the DEA with Security Clearance

FSA

Arlington, VA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Description: Be a part of the nationwide law enforcement initiative that removes the tools of crime from criminal organizations, depriving wrongdoers of proceeds from their crime and impacting the infrastructure of criminal enterprises. FSA Federal (FSA) is focused on delivering unsurpassed services in support of law enforcement and homeland security. We currently have a vacancy for a Senior Law Clerk.

In this role, you will be supporting the overall mission of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). If you are looking for a meaningful, mission driven career, Join FSA! Responsibilities * Provides assistance to the attorney while reviewing the work of paralegals and clerks.

* Performs expert legal research and writing at a high level on extremely sophisticated issues. * Reviews investigative reports from various agencies, prepares summaries of those reports, and notes matters requiring close department review. * Conducts high-level analysis of facts, evidence, and legal authorities in connection with domestic and international investigations.

* Uses facts, evidence, and legal authorities to create persuasive legal memoranda, motions, and briefs. * Drafts reports, develops training curricula, and prepares responses to Congressional and citizen correspondence. Analyzes and drafts comments regarding legislative proposals.

* Prepares correspondence for a variety of issues that require a government official signature. * Coordinates with other support components in order to complete work requirements. * Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements * Bar Certified with Law degree * Two years' post-JD experience * Experience conducting legal research using various research tools and law library resources, to include Lexis-Nexis and West Law * Excellent communication skills; oral and written, to include legal writing skills * Strong organizational and prioritization skills, and ability to work with minimal supervision * Experience with the Microsoft Office suite of applications (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and other common software applications, to include databases * Ability to work in a team environment, deliver the highest quality of work, and maintain a professional disposition under extreme pressure Preferred Skills * Strong research and writing skills * A background and/or interest in criminal law, legislative matters, and privacy This position requires U.S. Citizenship and a 7 (or 10) year minimum background investigation. Agency Overview The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is responsible for conducting national and international investigations targeting global drug trafficking networks and drug-related terrorism involved in the illegal growing, manufacturing, or distribution of controlled substances appearing in or destined for illicit traffic in the United States.

Benefits Overview At FSA Federal, we recognize the diverse needs of our employees and strive to provide an excellent package to help meet those needs. Comprehensive benefits are offered with greater choice and flexibility to support your health, work-life balance, and professional growth. A package providing employee only coverage can be built around our basic plans at $0 employee cost for: Medical, Dental, Vision, Term Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Employee Assistance Program.

For more information, click here . Telework Eligibility: This position is not currently approved for telework and requires work to be performed onsite Hiring Entity FSA

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