Special Agent: STEM-Physical Sciences Background

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 94,000 - 133,000; Full time

Job summary

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) invites candidates with a STEM background to transition into a Special Agent role in the United States. This path emphasizes applying chemistry, biotechnology, and laboratory analysis skills to national security challenges, including cyber threats, terrorism, fraud, and evolving risks.

You will receive specialized training and real-world investigative experience, with access to cutting-edge technology.

Qualifications

• Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in physical sciences or related field.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain Top Secret SCI clearance are required.
• Willingness to travel as required.

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.

Skills

Biotechnology

Laboratory analysis

Critical thinking

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in physical sciences

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 physical sciences 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 chemistry 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 biotechnology and laboratory analysis 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.Set yourself apart. Apply today.

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 physical sciences or a related field such as biology, chemistry, or physics) 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.