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Special Agent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029 Pay Plan: Career Service Position Number: 71000029 Salary: $66,150.00 Posting Closing Date: 07/30/2026 Total Compensation Estimator Tool SPECIAL AGENT PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...

SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029 Pay Plan: Career Service Position Number: 71000029 Salary: $66,150.00 Posting Closing Date: 07/30/2026 Total Compensation Estimator Tool SPECIAL AGENT PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...

SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029 Pay Plan: Career Service Position Number: 71000029 Salary: $66,150.00 Posting Closing Date: 07/30/2026 Total Compensation Estimator Tool SPECIAL AGENT PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...

SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029 Pay Plan: Career Service Position Number: 71000029 Salary: $66,150.00 Posting Closing Date: 07/30/2026 Total Compensation Estimator Tool SPECIAL AGENT PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...

SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029 Pay Plan: Career Service Position Number: 71000029 Salary: $66,150.00 Posting Closing Date: 07/30/2026 Total Compensation Estimator Tool SPECIAL AGENT PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...

SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029 Pay Plan: Career Service Position Number: 71000029 Salary: $66,150.00 Posting Closing Date: 07/30/2026 Total Compensation Estimator Tool SPECIAL AGENT PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...

SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029 Pay Plan: Career Service Position Number: 71000029 Salary: $66,150.00 Posting Closing Date: 07/30/2026 Total Compensation Estimator Tool SPECIAL AGENT PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...

SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029 Pay Plan: Career Service Position Number: 71000029 Salary: $66,150.00 Posting Closing Date: 07/30/2026 Total Compensation Estimator Tool SPECIAL AGENT PROTECTIVE SERVICES ...

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: Law Enforcement/Detective/Corrections/Protective Services DEPARTMENT OF GAMING The Arizona Department ...

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Special Agent information

See salary details

$35K

$65.6K

$104.5K

How much do special agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 does a special agent do?

A special agent investigates crimes, enforces laws, and gathers intelligence related to national security, law enforcement, or criminal activity. They often conduct surveillance, interviews, and searches, and may carry firearms and use specialized tools. Training includes law enforcement procedures and security protocols, and they typically work in field environments with irregular hours.

Do special agents make good money?

Special agents typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, agency, and location. Entry-level agents often start with a salary around $50,000 to $70,000 annually, with potential for higher pay as they gain experience and seniority, along with benefits such as retirement plans and health insurance.

What is the difference between Special Agent vs Federal Investigator?

AspectSpecial AgentFederal Investigator
CredentialsTypically requires a background check, security clearance, and specialized trainingOften requires similar credentials, including background checks and certifications
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, field operations, investigationsInvestigative roles within federal agencies, often in the field or office
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies like FBI, DEA, ATFFederal agencies conducting investigations, such as FBI, IRS, or DHS

Special Agents and Federal Investigators often share similar credentials and work environments, both serving in federal agencies. The main difference lies in the title used by different agencies or roles, but their responsibilities and qualifications are closely aligned.

How can I become a special agent?

To become a special agent, candidates typically need to meet specific requirements such as being a U.S. citizen, passing a background check, and having a valid driver's license. They usually must have a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and pass physical fitness tests and specialized training programs. Additional skills like law enforcement experience or language proficiency can also be advantageous.

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

To thrive as a Special Agent, you need a bachelor's degree (often in criminal justice or a related field), strong investigative instincts, and physical fitness. Familiarity with surveillance technology, firearms, database systems, and sometimes specialized certifications like law enforcement training are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, critical thinking, discretion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure make candidates stand out. These skills and qualities are essential for conducting complex investigations, ensuring public safety, and navigating high-stakes, sensitive situations successfully.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Special agents in high-level federal agencies, such as the FBI or DEA, can reach or exceed $1,000,000 annually through base salary, overtime, bonuses, and other incentives, especially with seniority and specialized skills. Typically, such earnings are achieved after many years of experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles within the organization.

What are Special Agents?

Special Agents are highly trained law enforcement officers who investigate crimes, gather evidence, conduct interviews, and enforce federal, state, or organizational laws. They often work for government agencies such as the FBI, DEA, or Secret Service, handling cases that range from criminal investigations to national security threats. Special Agents may also perform undercover work, carry firearms, and make arrests as part of their duties. Their work requires strong analytical skills, discretion, and the ability to work in high-pressure situations.

What Is a Special Agent?

A special agent is a law enforcement professional working for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). As a special agent, you are in charge of investigating criminal violations that fall into federal jurisdiction. At this level, you are not involved as heavily with enforcement as you are with solving crimes. Your daily job duties may include gathering evidence, serving arrest warrants, or interviewing witnesses. Depending on your post, your job can either be primarily deskbound or out in the field. You are assigned to investigate specific crimes, such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, or cybercrime.

What are some common challenges Special Agents face in balancing fieldwork and administrative duties?

Special Agents often juggle dynamic fieldwork with substantial administrative responsibilities, such as writing reports and case documentation. Balancing these tasks can be challenging, as field assignments may be unpredictable and time-sensitive, while paperwork is essential for case integrity and legal compliance. Effective time management, prioritization skills, and adaptability are key to staying organized and ensuring both investigative and administrative duties are completed accurately and on time.
What cities are hiring for Special Agent jobs? Cities with the most Special Agent job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Special Agent jobs? The most popular types of Special Agent jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Special Agent jobs? The top employers for Special Agent jobs are:
What states have the most Special Agent jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Agent jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Special Agent jobs? For Special Agent jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various 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 - 71000029

SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029

MyFlorida

Tallahassee, FL

$25K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


State Of Florida rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 50 rated states


Job description

Requisition No: 879690 

Agency: Department of Law Enforcement

Working Title: SPECIAL AGENT - 71000029

 Pay Plan: Career Service

Position Number: 71000029 

Salary:  $66,150.00 

Posting Closing Date: 07/30/2026 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

SPECIAL AGENT

PROTECTIVE SERVICES DIVISON

**Open-Competitive Opportunity**

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is currently seeking experienced law enforcement investigators to fill multiple Special Agent positions within the Protective Service Division (PSD) in Tallahassee, Florida. PSD is a specialized operational component primarily dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of the Governor and First Family, the Governor's Mansion and grounds and the Executive Office of the Governor.  PSD also provides protective services to visiting public officials/figures, particularly other United States governors and their families.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Special Agents are sworn law enforcement officers who assist the state's criminal justice community by providing a variety of services including:

  • Identifying and investigating organized and multi-jurisdictional crimes;
  • Apprehending fugitives;
  • Collecting and disseminating criminal intelligence information;
  • Investigating public corruption;
  • Seizing illegally obtained assets;
  • Dismantling criminal organizations;
  • Assisting in locating missing persons; and
  • Providing protective services to Florida's Governor and other dignitaries.

Special Agents within the Protective Services Division have the opportunity to travel within Florida, nationally, and internationally. Special Agents on this detail will work shifts, including holidays, nights and weekends. Work schedules are adjusted on a regular basis and the applicant must be willing to accept this flexible schedule as well as extensive travel requirements. Applicants must reside within 50 miles of FDLE Headquarters in Tallahassee, Florida.

To be considered as a potential candidate, you must meet the minimum qualifications listed below. Degrees must be from an accredited college or university as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. Four years of sworn law enforcement experience, two of which must be investigative; and
  2. Active law enforcement certification or eligible to be certified in the state of Florida per s. 943.13, Florida Statutes & CJSTC Requirements; or
  3. Successful completion of FDLE Special Agent Trainee Program.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge of grammar, punctuation, and spelling;
  • Ability to work in dangerous and stressful situations;
  • Ability to probe and obtain critical facts;
  • Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments;
  • Ability to communicate effectively;
  • Ability to describe facts and events accurately;
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others;
  • Ability to analyze and interpret data;
  • Ability to effectively interview suspects, complainants, and witnesses; and
  • Ability to understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

Note: Responses to qualifying questions must be clearly supported by the state application and any omission, falsification, or misrepresentation in the answering of the qualifying questions will be cause for immediate elimination from the selection process.

BASE SALARY:

  • Persons selected will be hired at $66,150.00 and increases are granted based upon appropriations as determined by the Florida Legislature.

HOW YOU WILL GROW:

FDLE recognizes the importance of growth and success while fostering a family-oriented work environment. We encourage our members to seek opportunities for professional growth through training, team building, and mentoring. Our four fundamental values of Service, Integrity, Respect and Quality will guide you as you embark on a lifelong career at FDLE.

OUR SALARY & BENEFITS:

Starting salary will be the minimum of the class pay range, unless otherwise dictated by FDLE's pay policy. FDLE is a State of Florida Employer and offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • State of Florida Tuition Waiver Program;
  • Paid holidays, vacation and sick leave;
  • HMO and PPO health insurance options with premiums starting as low as $50 per month;
  • $25,000 in automatic life insurance coverage;
  • Multiple supplemental insurance options including dental, vision, disability and more;
  • Paid maternity leave and parental leave following the birth or adoption of a child;
  • Pension and investment retirement plan options; and
  • Tax deferred medical and childcare reimbursement accounts.

 

ABOUT OUR AGENCY:

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) employs more than 2,000 members statewide - either at headquarters in Tallahassee or in one of seven regional operations centers (ROCs). Our mission is to promote public safety and strengthen domestic security. Click here for additional information about FDLE.

HIRING PROCESS:

All successful applicants must pass a physical agility test consisting of a 1.5-mile run, sit-ups and push-ups, as well as a drug screen, physical exam, electronic fingerprint submission and psychological evaluation to further determine suitability and compatibility to perform the basic job functions. Applicants will be evaluated based on their writing skills and ability to perform during an oral interview process. Persons selected must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver's license and United States passport throughout employment. A thorough background investigation will be conducted to include a financial credit check. You may be notified by the email provided on the State of Florida application to participate in a selection process. Failure to reply within a designated timeframe may exclude you from further consideration. Future vacancies may be filled from this position advertisement.

BACKGROUND:

FDLE requires an extensive background process of all recommended applicants. The elements of a background include a financial credit check, a criminal history check of applicant and applicant's immediate family or roommates, review of personal references, employment and education verifications (which includes official transcript(s)), drug screen, and fingerprinting.  This information will be utilized to make the final hiring decision.

NOTES:

Preference will be given to current FDLE members who have satisfactorily completed at least six months of the probationary period for their current position. Applicants must reside or be willing to relocate within 50 miles of FDLE Headquarters.  Information contained in responses to qualifying questions concerning education, experience, knowledge, skills or abilities must also be disclosed on the State of Florida application. Applicants will be required to sign an employment training reimbursement agreement.

REMINDERS:

  1. Male applicants born on or after October 1, 1962, will not be eligible for hire or promotion unless they are registered with the Selective Services System (SSS) before their 26th birthday, or have a Letter of Registration Exemption from the SSS. For more information, please visit the SSS website: http://www.sss.gov.
  2. If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS on how your current benefits will be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be cancelled, suspended, or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement. 

The State of Florida hires only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.

VETERANS' PREFERENCE.  Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, candidates eligible for Veterans' Preference will receive preference in employment for Career Service vacancies and are encouraged to apply.  Certain service members may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements.  Candidates claiming Veterans' Preference must attach supporting documentation with each submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code.  Veterans' Preference documentation requirements are available by clicking here.  All documentation is due by the close of the vacancy announcement. 


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