Special Agent: STEM-Engineering Background

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 94,000 - 133,000; Full time

Job summary

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in San Diego seeks candidates with a STEM background to transition into a special agent role. This path emphasizes upgrading engineering expertise and applying technical knowledge to investigations involving cyber threats, fraud, and national security.

The position rewards critical thinking, adaptability, and collaboration with elite professionals. Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree or higher, preferably in engineering, and be prepared to obtain a

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher from a U.S. accredited college or university.
• Engineering or related field preferred.
• All degrees must be verified by submitting transcripts.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct investigations of potential violations of federal laws, cybersecurity, and public safety.
• Exercise judgment, resourcefulness, and versatility in meeting investigative demands.
• Create and maintain effective liaison relationships with federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, and international law enforcement agencies.
• Maintain a level of physical fitness to ensure the readiness required to perform law enforcement duties.

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher (preferably in engineering or related field)

Job description

The position advertised has been exempted from the federal civilian hiring freeze.

Use your STEM background to become an FBI special agent!

The transition from engineering to special agent is more than a career move—it’s an opportunity to upskill and become an expert in your field. At the FBI, you won’t just use your software development experience; you’ll also build on it by working on cases that challenge you to think critically, adapt quickly, and collaborate with elite professionals tackling national security threats. Your ability to uncover crucial information, problem-solve, and apply your technical knowledge will help protect our nation from cyberattacks, terrorism, fraud, and evolving threats.

With specialized training, real-world investigative experience, and access to cutting-edge technology, you’ll refine your systems and programming skills, enhance your expertise, and develop the foundation to become a leader in your field. The Bureau matches your dedication with a commitment to professional growth, a supportive work environment, and a robust benefits package that prioritizes you.

SALARY LEVEL

Pay level for this position:

• $93,749.00 - $133,200.00

Salary is commensurate with base, locality, and availability pay.

MAJOR DUTIES

• Plan and conduct investigations of potential violations of federal laws, cybersecurity, and public safety.
• Exercise judgment, resourcefulness, and versatility in meeting investigative demands.
• Create and maintain effective liaison relationships with federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, and international law enforcement agencies.
• Maintain a level of physical fitness to ensure the readiness required to perform law enforcement duties.

KEY REQUIREMENTS

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must be able to obtain a Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Clearance.
• Must be willing to travel as required.
• Must meet the FBI’s Employment Eligibility requirements.

EDUCATION

• Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or higher (preferably in engineering or related field) from a U.S. accredited college or university.

All degrees must be verified by submitting college transcripts.

The FBI is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for this vacancy. Unless explicitly authorized by law, selection will be made without regard to, and there will be no discrimination because of, color, race, religion, national origin, marital status, parental status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age (40 or over), sex, pregnancy and related conditions, or on the basis of personal favoritism, or any other nonmerit factors.