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Federal Special Agent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Candidates with prior experience in federal agencies such as the FBI, U.S. Department of Justice ... Special Agent essential functions are as follows: * Investigates a wide range and variety of ...

$78K/yr

SPECIAL AGENT Job No: 535251 Work Type: Full-time Location: REMOTE OPTIONS, PHOENIX Categories ... This position requires the ability to work as a team consisting of federal, state, local and school ...

Candidates with prior experience in federal agencies such as the FBI, U.S. Department of Justice ... Special Agent essential functions are as follows: * Investigates a wide range and variety of ...

SPECIAL AGENT Apply now Job No: 535616 Work Type: Full-time Location: PHOENIX Categories ... Conduct criminal investigations into violations of the Liquor Law, State, and Federal laws. This ...

Special Agent

Anchorage, AK · On-site +1

$48K - $118K/yr

Exceptions may apply for those with current or prior service in federal law enforcement positions ... Special Agent Entrance Exam (SAEE) * Applicant Physical Abilities Test (APAT) * Interview Phase ...

RACING SPECIAL AGENT

Phoenix, AZ · On-site +1

$67K - $77K/yr

RACING SPECIAL AGENT Apply now Job No: 542385 Work Type: Full-time Location: PHOENIX Categories ... Cooperates with and secures the assistance of Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies ...

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Federal Special Agent information

See salary details

$35K

$65.6K

$104.5K

How much do federal special agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal special agent in the United States is $65,642.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $78,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do federal special agents do?

Federal special agents investigate violations of federal laws, gather evidence, conduct interviews, and make arrests. They often work in areas such as criminal, cyber, or national security investigations and require specialized training and security clearances. Their work environment can include field operations, surveillance, and courtroom testimony.

What are Federal Special Agents?

Federal Special Agents are law enforcement officers who work for federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, or Secret Service. Their duties typically involve investigating federal crimes, gathering evidence, making arrests, and working on cases that range from terrorism and organized crime to cybercrime and public corruption. Special Agents often work undercover, conduct surveillance, and may be required to testify in court. They undergo rigorous training and must meet strict qualifications, including background checks and physical fitness requirements.

What is the difference between Federal Special Agent vs Federal Detective?

AspectFederal Special AgentFederal Detective
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree, background checks, and specialized training at agencies like the FBI or DEASimilar requirements, often with prior law enforcement experience and training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork involving investigations, surveillance, and arrests across various federal agenciesInvestigative work within federal agencies, often focusing on specific crimes or cases
Employer & IndustryFederal government agencies such as FBI, DEA, ATFFederal law enforcement agencies, often overlapping with special agents

Federal Special Agents and Federal Detectives share similar qualifications and work environments, both serving within federal agencies. The main difference lies in terminology and specific agency roles, but both perform investigative duties to enforce federal laws.

What are some common challenges faced by Federal Special Agents in the field?

Federal Special Agents often encounter challenges such as managing high-stress situations, adapting quickly to evolving threats, and maintaining strict confidentiality. The role frequently involves irregular hours, travel, and the need to make rapid decisions under pressure. Additionally, agents must collaborate closely with various law enforcement agencies and balance investigative duties with administrative responsibilities, requiring strong interpersonal and organizational skills.

How much do federal agents get paid?

Federal Special Agents' salaries vary based on experience, location, and agency, but typically start around $50,000 to $70,000 annually for entry-level positions. With experience and promotions, salaries can increase to over $100,000 per year, and agents often receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay. Many agencies also offer specialized training and opportunities for advancement.

How do you become a federal special agent?

To become a federal special agent, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and must pass a series of assessments including background checks, physical fitness tests, and a specialized training program at a federal law enforcement academy. Additional requirements may include U.S. citizenship, a clean criminal record, and certain age limits depending on the agency.

How hard is it to get into the FBI special agent?

Becoming an FBI special agent is highly competitive and requires meeting strict qualifications, including U.S. citizenship, a minimum of three years of professional work experience, and a bachelor's degree. Candidates must pass a series of assessments, including a written test, physical fitness test, background investigation, and interview process, making the selection process rigorous and demanding.

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

To thrive as a Federal Special Agent, you need a bachelor’s degree, strong analytical and investigative skills, and often law enforcement or military experience. Familiarity with firearms, surveillance technology, case management systems, and specialized certifications like those from the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) are typically required. Exceptional interpersonal communication, discretion, and resilience under pressure set top agents apart. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure effective investigations, uphold national security, and maintain public trust.
More about Federal Special Agent jobs
What cities are hiring for Federal Special Agent jobs? Cities with the most Federal Special Agent job openings:
What states have the most Federal Special Agent jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Special Agent jobs include:
Infographic showing various Federal Special Agent job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,642 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Special Agent

Special Agent

State of Indiana

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states


Job description

Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Office of the Inspector General (OIG):
The Indiana Inspector General is responsible for investigating and addressing fraud, waste, abuse, and wrongdoing in any agency within the executive branch of Indiana state government. This includes any authority, board, branch, commission, committee, department, division or other instrumentality of the executive branch of Indiana state government. The Inspector General does not have jurisdiction over the judicial or legislative branches of state government or over local or county government.
The State Ethics Commission has jurisdiction over: (1) a current or former state officer; (2) a current or former employee of a state agency; (3) a person who has a business relationship with a state agency; or (4) a current or former special state appointee. The State Ethics Commission has ultimate authority to interpret the Indiana Code of Ethics.
Role Overview:
The Special Agent serves as a certified law enforcement officer responsible for conducting complex criminal and administrative investigations involving ethics violations, financial fraud, public corruption, and other forms of misconduct within state government. This role requires a seasoned professional with a strong foundation in investigative procedures, legal compliance, and interagency collaboration. The ideal candidate brings at least five years of investigative experience-preferably at the federal, state, or local level-and demonstrates the ability to manage sensitive, high-stakes cases with integrity and discretion.
Candidates with prior experience in federal agencies such as the FBI, U.S. Department of Justice, or Offices of Inspector General are strongly encouraged to apply, particularly those with a background in multi-jurisdictional investigations, prosecutorial coordination, and enforcement of ethics and fraud-related statutes. This position demands analytical rigor, sound judgment, and the ability to communicate effectively with legal counsel, law enforcement, and senior government officials.
Salary:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $53,222.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.
A Day in the Life:
Special Agent essential functions are as follows:
  • Investigates a wide range and variety of practices within the Executive Branch state agencies dictated by the parameters established in Indiana Code;
  • Investigates personnel and fiscal records to ascertain misappropriation of public assets or funds;
  • Investigates assigned complaints concerning violations of statutes and regulations by state employees or agencies;
  • Researches files, records, statutes, and rules to ensure proper authorization and other compliances;
  • Prepares and files formal complaints against offending or alleged offenders on behalf of the Inspector General;
  • Presents testimony and serve as an expert witness in criminal court and State Ethics Commission hearings;
  • Obtains and serves arrest warrant, search warrants, and subpoenas as directed.

Senior Special Agent:
The OIG will also consider applicants for a Senior Special Agent postion.
The Senior Special Agent is responsible for conducting complex criminal and administrative investigations involving ethics violations, financial fraud, public corruption, and other forms of misconduct within Indiana state government. This role requires a highly skilled professional with a strong foundation in investigative techniques, legal compliance, and interagency collaboration with a demonstrated ability to manage sensitive, high-stakes cases with integrity and discretion. Success in the role requires analytical rigor, sound judgment, and the ability to communicate effectively with legal counsel, law enforcement, and senior government officials.
The position is designed to attract individuals with deep experience in white-collar crime, public integrity enforcement, and fraud detection. Candidates may qualify through extensive investigative experience or a combination of experience and advanced academic or professional credentials.
The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time.
What You'll Need for Success:
Special Agent Minimum Qualifications:
The ideal candidate in this role should minimally have:
  • Indiana Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) certification, or its equivalent and eligible for waiver under 250 IAC 2-2-1, and;
  • at least 5 years of criminal investigative experience.

Related certifications and coursework may be considered for education or experience.
  • Extensive knowledge of, and experience in, investigative procedures, interview techniques, criminal detection, and apprehension;
  • Extensive knowledge of, and experience in, evidence collection and chain of custody procedures, criminal and civil liability, due process, and criminal justice information databases;
  • Thorough knowledge of state government organization and procedures as well as state statutes, rules, and laws governing areas of responsibility;
  • Working knowledge of filing and enforcement requirements of the Office of Inspector General;
  • Effectively communicate, both orally and in writing;
  • Ability to analyze complex problems and make determinations and recommendations relative to the necessity of conducting investigations;
  • This person must satisfy the following requirements for employment:
    • Must be 21 years of age or older;
    • Ability to maintain a valid Indiana driver's license;
    • Ability to maintain ILEA Tier 1 law enforcement certification through completion of annual ILEA mandated training requirements;
    • Be currently employed or have been employed within the last six years as a full-time Tier 1 Law Enforcement Officer in Indiana.
  • Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Senior Special Agent Minimum Qualifications:
  • In addition to the above qualifications for the Special Agent role, the Senior Special Agent will have one of the following specialized experience pathways:
    • At least five (5) years of specialized experience conducting complex investigations involving financial fraud, public corruption, or white-collar crime; OR
    • At least three (3) years of specialized experience in the same areas combined with an advanced degree or professional certification in accounting, law, public administration, or fraud examination (e.g., J.D., CPA, CFE, MPA);
  • Preferred experience includes: Prior service in corporate investigations or federal agencies such as the FBI, U.S. Department of Justice, or Offices of Inspector General working closely with prosecutors, grand juries, and internal compliance units.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
Current Employee? Click here to apply.

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