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Homeland Security Investigations Jobs in Reston, VA

S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, in Lorton, Virginia. This is a non-bargaining unit position. Qualifications: Please limit your resume to 2 pages. If more ...

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Homeland Security Investigations information

See Reston, VA salary details

$34.9K

$72.8K

$123.8K

How much do homeland security investigations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for homeland security investigations in Reston, VA is $72,753.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,900.00 and $89,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Homeland Security Investigations jobs?

Jobs within Homeland Security Investigations include analysts, auditors, special agents, and supporting staff within multiple divisions. Domestic Operations oversees activities of the domestic field offices, while International Operations maintains relationships with foreign law departments. In Mission Support, you handle financial and information technology aspects. The Office of Intelligence gathers data through intelligence operations. Investigative Programs work with local law enforcement to ensure officers receive proper training. National Security Investigations works to prevent terrorist-related incidents. The Operational Technology and Cyber Division handle technical and business-related duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Homeland Security Investigations special agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent, you need a solid background in criminal justice, investigative techniques, and federal law enforcement, typically supported by a relevant degree and successful completion of federal training. Proficiency with case management systems, surveillance equipment, and investigative databases is essential, along with possible certifications in firearms and defensive tactics. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are crucial for handling complex investigations and working within diverse teams. These skills and qualities are important because they enable agents to effectively detect, investigate, and prevent threats to national security and uphold the law.

What are some common challenges encountered in a Homeland Security Investigations role, and how are they addressed?

Homeland Security Investigations agents often face complex cases involving transnational crime, cyber threats, and rapidly evolving criminal tactics. These challenges require adaptability, strong analytical skills, and effective collaboration with other law enforcement agencies. HSI professionals address these challenges through continuous training, leveraging advanced technology, and participating in multi-agency task forces to share intelligence and resources, ensuring comprehensive investigations and successful outcomes.

What is the difference between Homeland Security Investigations vs Customs and Border Protection Officer?

AspectHomeland Security InvestigationsCustoms and Border Protection Officer
Primary RoleInvestigates federal crimes, threats, and violations related to national security and immigrationPatrols borders, inspects travelers and cargo, and enforces customs laws
Work EnvironmentOffices, laboratories, and field investigationsBorder crossings, ports of entry, and patrol areas
Required CredentialsSpecial agent credentials, background checks, law enforcement trainingBorder patrol training, law enforcement certification, background checks

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) focuses on investigating crimes related to national security, immigration, and customs violations, often working in investigative and forensic settings. In contrast, Customs and Border Protection Officers primarily monitor and secure borders, inspecting travelers and cargo. Both roles require law enforcement credentials and operate within the Department of Homeland Security, but their daily duties and work environments differ significantly.

Is it hard to become a Homeland Security Investigations criminal investigator?

Becoming a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) criminal investigator requires meeting specific qualifications, including a background in law enforcement or related fields, passing a series of exams, and completing specialized training. Candidates often need relevant experience, security clearances, and strong investigative skills, making the process competitive and demanding. Persistence and a commitment to public service are important for success in this career.

What are popular job titles related to Homeland Security Investigations jobs in Reston, VA?

For Homeland Security Investigations jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Homeland Security Investigations jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Homeland Security Investigations jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Homeland Security Investigations jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Homeland Security Investigations job openings:

Infographic showing various Homeland Security Investigations job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,753 per year, or $35 per hour.

Telecommunications Specialist

Lorton, VA • On-site


US Department of Homeland Security
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

100th of 295 rated public sector bodies

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$143K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

View Common Definitions of terms found in this announcement.
Organizational Location: This position is located in the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, in Lorton, Virginia.
This is a non-bargaining unit position.
Qualifications:Please limit your resume to 2 pages. If more than 2 pages are submitted, only the first 2 pages will be reviewed to determine your eligibility/qualifications.
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE WILL NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.
Do not copy and paste the duties, specialized experience, or occupational assessment questionnaire from this announcement into your resume as that will not be considered a demonstration of your qualifications for this position.
You qualify for the GS-14 grade level if you possess one (1) year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level or equivalent performing duties such as:
Experience: One (1) year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level or equivalent performing duties such as:
  • Serving as a subject matter expert (SME) on advising on the technological feasibility of processes, systems, and equipment utilized in criminal investigation operations; AND
  • Experience working with manufacturers, vendors, and program managers to derive new functional designs that will make the surveillance systems and devices more efficient at fulfilling investigation mission requirements; AND
  • Experience planning, developing, designing, coordinating, reviewing and providing expert technical advice on electronic surveillance systems in support of the investigative mission to include, but limited to: tracking, video, audio, telephone or other systems in support of the electronic surveillance program operations.
Qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement. Qualification claims will be subject to verification.
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 critical 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 experience.
Current or Former Political Appointees: The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.
The Department of Homeland Security encourages persons with disabilities to apply, to include persons with intellectual, severe physical or psychiatric disabilities, as defined by 5 CFR 213.3102(u), and/or Disabled Veterans with a compensable service-connected disability of 30 percent or more as defined by 5 CFR 315.707. Veterans, Peace Corps, VISTA volunteers, and persons with disabilities possess a wealth of unique talents, experiences, and competencies that can be invaluable to the DHS mission. If you are a member of one of these groups, you may not have to compete with the public for federal jobs. To determine your eligibility for non-competitive appointment and to understand the required documentation, click on the links above or contact the Servicing Human Resources Office listed at the bottom of this announcement.Education:Employment Type: OTHER

U.S. Department of Homeland Security logo

About U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a federal agency operating within the government services industry in Washington, DC, US. Established in 2003, the DHS is directly responsible for public security, roughly comparable to the interior or home ministries of other countries. Its main responsibilities include protecting the United States from and responding to terrorist attacks, man-made accidents, and natural disasters. Through its more than 20 component agencies including Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, it ensures the safety of the US through numerous programs and initiatives. The DHS upholds a core value system with the mission of safeguarding the American people, our homeland, and values. Notably, the DHS plays a critical role in the spectral range of activities to prepare, prevent, and respond to possible threats to the US.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003


What U.S. Department Of Homeland Security employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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