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Drug Enforcement Administration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dayton Children's

Pharmacist- Inpatient

Dayton, OH · On-site

$56.50 - $68/hr

This role complies with state and federal drug laws as regulated by the state board of pharmacy, the drug enforcement administration, and the food and drug administration, along with other regulatory ...

Farmacia Central Inc

Pharmacist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$64.25 - $77.25/hr

Complies with state and federal drug laws as regulated by the state board of pharmacy, the drug enforcement administration, and the food and drug administration by monitoring nursing unit inspection.

Dayton Children's Hospital

Pharmacist- Inpatient

Dayton, OH · On-site

$56.50 - $68/hr

This role complies with state and federal drug laws as regulated by the state board of pharmacy, the drug enforcement administration, and the food and drug administration, along with other regulatory ...

Farmacia Central Inc

Pharmacist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$64.25 - $77.25/hr

Complies with state and federal drug laws as regulated by the state board of pharmacy, the drug enforcement administration, and the food and drug administration by monitoring nursing unit inspection.

In Touch Pharmaceuticals

Staff Pharmacist

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$59.50 - $70/hr

Complies with state and federal drug laws as regulated by the state boards of pharmacy, the drug enforcement administration, and the food and drug administration by maintaining records for controlled ...

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Drug Enforcement Administration information

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How much do drug enforcement administration jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug enforcement administration in the United States is $59,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I join DEA without a degree?

The Drug Enforcement Administration typically requires applicants to have at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. While a degree is generally necessary, relevant experience or specialized skills may also be considered for certain positions. Candidates should review specific job requirements for the role they are interested in.

What are some common challenges faced by agents working at the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)?

DEA agents often encounter challenges such as high-stress situations, unpredictable schedules, and exposure to dangerous environments during investigations. The role requires agents to work closely with local, state, and international law enforcement agencies, which can present coordination and communication hurdles. Additionally, agents must stay up to date on changing drug trends and laws, and often handle sensitive information that demands strict confidentiality and professionalism. These challenges are balanced by comprehensive training, strong team support, and opportunities for career advancement within the agency.

Is it hard to get hired by the DEA?

Getting hired by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is competitive and involves a rigorous selection process, including background checks, drug testing, physical fitness assessments, and interviews. Candidates typically need relevant education, law enforcement experience, or specialized skills, and must meet strict eligibility requirements such as U.S. citizenship and security clearance. The process can take several months due to the thorough screening involved.

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

To thrive as a DEA Special Agent, you need a strong background in criminal justice or a related field, physical fitness, and eligibility for federal law enforcement, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and relevant work experience. Familiarity with investigative technologies, firearms, surveillance equipment, and completion of the DEA Training Academy are standard requirements. Exceptional integrity, critical thinking, resilience, and effective communication are vital soft skills for navigating high-pressure situations and building trust within communities. These skills and qualifications are crucial for enforcing drug laws, conducting complex investigations, and ensuring public safety.

How to become a Drug Enforcement Administration agent?

To become a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent, candidates must meet age and citizenship requirements, pass a background check, drug test, and physical fitness assessment, and complete a rigorous training program at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. A bachelor's degree and relevant work experience or military service can strengthen an application, and applicants should demonstrate strong communication, problem-solving, and integrity skills.

Do DEA agents make a lot of money?

DEA agents typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, location, and rank, with starting salaries often around $50,000 to $60,000 annually and increasing with seniority. They also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay. Overall, while not among the highest-paying federal jobs, DEA agents earn a solid income relative to law enforcement positions.

What is the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)?

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a United States federal agency under the Department of Justice responsible for enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations. The DEA's primary mission is to combat drug smuggling and use within the United States, as well as to coordinate and pursue investigations with international partners. DEA agents investigate major drug crimes, oversee the regulation of legal pharmaceuticals, and work to dismantle drug trafficking organizations. The agency also offers support and training to other law enforcement agencies at the federal, state, and local levels.

What is the difference between Drug Enforcement Administration vs Customs and Border Protection Officer?

AspectDrug Enforcement Administration (DEA)Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO)
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; DEA Special Agent requires additional training and background checksHigh school diploma or GED; training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC)
Work EnvironmentFederal agency focused on drug trafficking investigations, labs, and enforcementBorder crossings, ports, and airports, focusing on customs violations and border security
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Justice, law enforcement, drug enforcementU.S. Customs and Border Protection, border security, immigration, and customs

The DEA and CBPO roles both involve federal law enforcement but differ in focus and environment. DEA agents primarily investigate drug crimes within the U.S., while CBPO officers focus on border security and customs enforcement at ports of entry. Both require federal training and serve in law enforcement agencies, but their daily duties and operational settings vary significantly.

More about Drug Enforcement Administration jobs
What cities are hiring for Drug Enforcement Administration jobs? Cities with the most Drug Enforcement Administration job openings:
What states have the most Drug Enforcement Administration jobs? States with the most job openings for Drug Enforcement Administration jobs include:
Drug Enforcement Administration jobs near you
Records Examiner / Analyst Supporting the DEA

Records Examiner / Analyst Supporting the DEA

FSA Federal

Quantico, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted yesterday

Job 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.
Compass Strategy Solutions (CSS) specializes in cultivating tactical and strategic intelligence personnel, financial analysts, and forensic accountants, to support law enforcement efforts domestically and overseas. CSS has a vacancy for a Records Examiner/Analyst. In this role, you will be supporting the overall mission of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Responsibilities
  • Reviews and evaluates data and information from multiple sources.
  • Confirms completeness of received data/information and resolves inconsistencies.
  • Accurately enters required data into one or more databases, documents, or spreadsheets.
  • Creates case/project files.
  • Manages validation and verification of case files and case data system.
  • Keeps track of case file status in order to confirm compliance with established deadlines.
  • Manages requests for additional information as needed.
  • Selects relevant information from a variety of sources in order to prepare documents, reports, summaries, and replies to inquiries, ensuring accuracy and proper format of the information provided.
  • Manipulates, transfers, computes and prints information.
  • Prepares and modifies reports and correspondence using word processing software.
  • Provides accurate and timely status updates.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements
  • Undergraduate degree, or High School Diploma/GED and two-years' experience
  • One-year directly related experience or in a field related to law enforcement (includes legal and military experience)
  • Ability to grasp and understand the organization and functions of the customer
  • Demonstratable project and workload management skills
  • Excellent communication skills; oral and written
  • Competence to review, interpret, evaluate, and extract data and information from complex legal and non-legal documents
  • Strong attention to detail; meticulous data entry skills
  • Intermediate skills with the Microsoft Office suite of applications (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and other common software applications, advanced skills preferred
  • Proven commitment and expertise to provide excellent customer service; positive and flexible
  • Ability to work in a team environment and maintain a professional disposition

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 Compass, 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.

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