3 answers
Bryleigh
Student
Cabot, Arkansas
11
Questions
Asked
815 views
What does a "typical" day look like for an FBI Special Agent?
I am trying to decide if this is the career I want to pursue. I would like a detailed response that kind of gives me an idea of if this is the right job for me. I would also like to get some input on the type of people that are good in this job.
Login to comment
3 answers
cassandra Harris
Social / Emotional learning Teacher
38
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated
cassandra’s Answer
I am not an Agent, but I did ask someone who is. This is what I learned from speaking with them:
One of the biggest things to know is that there really isn’t a “typical” day; the job changes depending on the case you’re working on, your specialty, and what’s happening in the world. But here’s a good idea of what many agents experience:
Morning
Briefings: Agents often start the day with a team meeting to go over updates, new leads, or urgent developments in their investigations.
Reviewing case files: This could include analyzing reports, reading interviews, reviewing surveillance, or planning next steps.
Planning fieldwork: Deciding who will do interviews, who needs to collect evidence, or whether a surveillance or an arrest operation is happening that day.
Midday
Interviews: Agents talk to witnesses, suspects, informants, or community members to gather information. These conversations can be intense and require excellent communication skills.
Surveillance: This can mean sitting in a car or location for hours observing a target—sometimes exciting, sometimes boring, always important.
Evidence work: Collecting and documenting evidence, coordinating with lab teams, or visiting crime scenes (cases can include cybercrime, terrorism, fraud, kidnapping, violent crime, trafficking, etc.).
Afternoon / Evening
Team operations: Sometimes agents participate in search warrants, arrests, or tactical operations with specialized teams.
Paperwork: A big part of the job is writing reports—it’s not all action. Good documentation is essential for court.
Court appearances: Agents may testify or meet with attorneys to prepare for trials.
Unpredictability
This is a major part of the job:
Cases can break at any time—you may get called in unexpectedly.
Hours can be long, especially during active investigations.
Travel is sometimes required, depending on your division and assignment.
What Type of People Do Well as FBI Special Agents?
This career isn’t just about toughness or action—it’s about discipline, emotional intelligence, and teamwork. People who do well typically have these traits:
1. Strong Problem-Solvers
They enjoy puzzles, investigating, noticing small details, figuring out what doesn’t add up, and connecting clues.
2. Calm Under Pressure
Crises can happen. Agents have to think clearly even during stressful or dangerous situations.
3. Physically Fit
Fitness is required—not just for training at the FBI Academy but also for some field operations.
4. Excellent Communicators
They can talk to anyone—victims, suspects, judges, community members. Good listeners and clear communicators are essential.
5. Ethical and Trustworthy
Agents must follow strict rules and make difficult decisions. Integrity is non-negotiable.
6. Team Players
Cases are solved by teams, not by lone wolves. People who share information, support coworkers, and collaborate do well.
7. Adaptable
Every day is different. You might spend the morning in a meeting, the afternoon interviewing witnesses, and the evening conducting surveillance.
8. Emotionally Strong
You may see difficult or upsetting situations. People who can cope with tough emotions and still stay focused are suited for this work.
Is This the Right Job for You?
Ask yourself:
Do I like variety and unpredictability?
Do I enjoy physical challenge and mental challenge?
Am I okay with long hours or being called in suddenly?
Do I like teamwork more than working alone?
Do I want a career where I help people, protect others, and solve major problems?
Do I handle stress well?
If those match your personality and interests, the FBI might be a great fit.
One of the biggest things to know is that there really isn’t a “typical” day; the job changes depending on the case you’re working on, your specialty, and what’s happening in the world. But here’s a good idea of what many agents experience:
Morning
Briefings: Agents often start the day with a team meeting to go over updates, new leads, or urgent developments in their investigations.
Reviewing case files: This could include analyzing reports, reading interviews, reviewing surveillance, or planning next steps.
Planning fieldwork: Deciding who will do interviews, who needs to collect evidence, or whether a surveillance or an arrest operation is happening that day.
Midday
Interviews: Agents talk to witnesses, suspects, informants, or community members to gather information. These conversations can be intense and require excellent communication skills.
Surveillance: This can mean sitting in a car or location for hours observing a target—sometimes exciting, sometimes boring, always important.
Evidence work: Collecting and documenting evidence, coordinating with lab teams, or visiting crime scenes (cases can include cybercrime, terrorism, fraud, kidnapping, violent crime, trafficking, etc.).
Afternoon / Evening
Team operations: Sometimes agents participate in search warrants, arrests, or tactical operations with specialized teams.
Paperwork: A big part of the job is writing reports—it’s not all action. Good documentation is essential for court.
Court appearances: Agents may testify or meet with attorneys to prepare for trials.
Unpredictability
This is a major part of the job:
Cases can break at any time—you may get called in unexpectedly.
Hours can be long, especially during active investigations.
Travel is sometimes required, depending on your division and assignment.
What Type of People Do Well as FBI Special Agents?
This career isn’t just about toughness or action—it’s about discipline, emotional intelligence, and teamwork. People who do well typically have these traits:
1. Strong Problem-Solvers
They enjoy puzzles, investigating, noticing small details, figuring out what doesn’t add up, and connecting clues.
2. Calm Under Pressure
Crises can happen. Agents have to think clearly even during stressful or dangerous situations.
3. Physically Fit
Fitness is required—not just for training at the FBI Academy but also for some field operations.
4. Excellent Communicators
They can talk to anyone—victims, suspects, judges, community members. Good listeners and clear communicators are essential.
5. Ethical and Trustworthy
Agents must follow strict rules and make difficult decisions. Integrity is non-negotiable.
6. Team Players
Cases are solved by teams, not by lone wolves. People who share information, support coworkers, and collaborate do well.
7. Adaptable
Every day is different. You might spend the morning in a meeting, the afternoon interviewing witnesses, and the evening conducting surveillance.
8. Emotionally Strong
You may see difficult or upsetting situations. People who can cope with tough emotions and still stay focused are suited for this work.
Is This the Right Job for You?
Ask yourself:
Do I like variety and unpredictability?
Do I enjoy physical challenge and mental challenge?
Am I okay with long hours or being called in suddenly?
Do I like teamwork more than working alone?
Do I want a career where I help people, protect others, and solve major problems?
Do I handle stress well?
If those match your personality and interests, the FBI might be a great fit.
Thank you!
Bryleigh
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello again, Bryleigh !
There are many varieties of FBI Special Agents and for most work careers, there's no typical day, however advisors here have mapped out specific job duties that are involved in the work that you are exploring that special agents do. In your previous post, you've mentioned that you have an interest in being a special fraud investigator which sounds great.
Being a special fraud investigator for the FBI has many duties and no two days would be alike. They are responsible for a wide range of duties focused on combating financial crimes. Various cases take various lengths of time and you would find yourself investigating corporate fraud, identity theft, money laundering, and Ponzi schemes by analyzing complex financial records and conducting interviews with suspects and witnesses. You gather statements and documents and document all investigative activities to maintain a thorough record of the case. You would also interact with other law enforcement agencies.
The reports that you would write would help prosecutions and you may sometimes testify in court. You may also conduct surveillance, execute search warrants, and collaborate with legal professionals This specific career as an FBI fraud investigator requires meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work under pressure, often involving long hours, travel, and the need to adapt to evolving fraud schemes and technologies.
A way to get a glimpse of part of this diverse role would be to maybe go to court cases at your local courts to see how evidence is presented and see the roles of the various people involved in the court proceeding. You'll especially want to focus on your local federal court to observe cases in session (for possible fraud cases) like the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas. Also, you can visit the law firm of Larry K Cook, P.A. and Chris Warthen as they specialize in white collar crime and you could maybe do some volunteer work or shadowing there. Sometimes, having a visual and audible in-person view can tell you more than just words on paper.
For a quick glimpse into a generalized look for this career, you can also watch videos. I left a link below to some interesting looking videos on You Tube that talk about this career.
Naturally, no one can tell you how your career would be, how it would go and no two people's careers are the same. You would bring your unique and special qualities to the job. You would have very different cases and experiences with this type of work, even if a seasoned agent tells you how their career went.
To decide, think about how you want to spend your future, if you'd relocate or not, what your personal mission for your work is and be true to your instincts and intuition. You will choose the best career for yourself !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
VIDEO PRESENTATIONS ON FBI WORK https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=what+being+a+special+fraud+investigator+for+the+FBI+is+like
There are many varieties of FBI Special Agents and for most work careers, there's no typical day, however advisors here have mapped out specific job duties that are involved in the work that you are exploring that special agents do. In your previous post, you've mentioned that you have an interest in being a special fraud investigator which sounds great.
Being a special fraud investigator for the FBI has many duties and no two days would be alike. They are responsible for a wide range of duties focused on combating financial crimes. Various cases take various lengths of time and you would find yourself investigating corporate fraud, identity theft, money laundering, and Ponzi schemes by analyzing complex financial records and conducting interviews with suspects and witnesses. You gather statements and documents and document all investigative activities to maintain a thorough record of the case. You would also interact with other law enforcement agencies.
The reports that you would write would help prosecutions and you may sometimes testify in court. You may also conduct surveillance, execute search warrants, and collaborate with legal professionals This specific career as an FBI fraud investigator requires meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work under pressure, often involving long hours, travel, and the need to adapt to evolving fraud schemes and technologies.
A way to get a glimpse of part of this diverse role would be to maybe go to court cases at your local courts to see how evidence is presented and see the roles of the various people involved in the court proceeding. You'll especially want to focus on your local federal court to observe cases in session (for possible fraud cases) like the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Arkansas. Also, you can visit the law firm of Larry K Cook, P.A. and Chris Warthen as they specialize in white collar crime and you could maybe do some volunteer work or shadowing there. Sometimes, having a visual and audible in-person view can tell you more than just words on paper.
For a quick glimpse into a generalized look for this career, you can also watch videos. I left a link below to some interesting looking videos on You Tube that talk about this career.
Naturally, no one can tell you how your career would be, how it would go and no two people's careers are the same. You would bring your unique and special qualities to the job. You would have very different cases and experiences with this type of work, even if a seasoned agent tells you how their career went.
To decide, think about how you want to spend your future, if you'd relocate or not, what your personal mission for your work is and be true to your instincts and intuition. You will choose the best career for yourself !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, however, I have never mentioned wanting to be a special fraud investigator. I would appreciate you double checking your facts before answering my questions.
Bryleigh
You wrote - " I plan to work for a Big 4 accounting firm for my work experience required to be a Special Agent. Bryleigh Dec 12" and Edward Johnson wrote on Dec 13th - Because accountants are the best at solving complex White Collar Fraud Crimes. Which is a high pruority [sic] for the FBI. Please do not steer someone wrong if you don't have the experience. Edward Jacobson Dec 13
So there was indeed mention of it and no need for me to "check". It's already at the post comment that you wrote unless you want to delete it.
There's no need to get stressed. These are only advice and only meant to help you and all the students.
Michelle M.
@Bryleigh - On December 12th you also wrote you would Major in Accounting - ."so that I am a Certified Fraud Examiner, further advancing my skills for me to be a Special Agent." Those were your words indicating that you wanted to go into the fraud investigation realm of the FBI. The post with the comments you wrote appears at https://www.careervillage.org/questions/1176265/is-a-double-major-in-accounting-and-criminology-and-good-combination-for-becoming-a-special-agent-for-the-fbi
Michelle M.
Thank you for explaining your interpretation and for referencing my earlier comments. I want to clarify that I never stated that I wanted to be a Special Fraud Investigator specifically. My intention in mentioning accounting, Certified Fraud Examiner skills, and Big 4 experience was to explain that I am interested in gaining additional, relevant skills to strengthen my overall candidacy for the FBI Special Agent role, not to define a specific investigative specialization. I understand that fraud investigation, accounting, and white-collar crime can overlap, but my goal has always been to broaden my qualifications rather than commit to a specific fraud-focused position. I wanted to clarify my intent so future guidance aligns more accurately with my goals.
Bryleigh
That's great. I wish you well !
Michelle M.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1185
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Bryleigh,
I admire the fact that before deciding on a career path, you want a realistic image. Going into the FBI Special Agent position with an open mind is the best course of action because it's intense, high-impact, and meaningful work.
Since the work varies depending on your section (cybercrime, counterterrorism, crimes against minors, intelligence, etc.) and the current situation, it is actually difficult to define a "typical day." However, here is a realistic picture of what a typical day looks like:
- Morning: Briefings + Case Priorities
Usually, agents begin by going over overnight updates, following up on leads, getting ready for interviews, or working with their investigative team. Since priorities can shift quickly, a lot of the effort is focusing on what is important at the moment.
- Midday: Field Work
The variety starts at this point. One day you may be doing surveillance, meeting with local police enforcement, seeing a crime scene, or conducting interviews. Serving warrants or gathering evidence can take up another day. It's unpredictable, hands-on, and demands maintaining focus.
- Afternoon: Reports, Evidence Review & Coordination
Not flashy but necessary. Agents record findings, analyze data, and communicate with prosecutors or other authorities in real time. The documentation contributes to preserving the case's integrity.
- Evenings: Flexibility Required
After eight hours, some days come to an end. Others take a lengthy time because of active investigations, surveillance windows, or urgent leads. Although it doesn't always occur, work-life balance does exist.
When considering the kind of individual who succeeds in this line of work, a few characteristics come up often:
- Calm under pressure
Decisions often have real consequences. People who can stay focused when things get intense tend to excel.
- Strong communicator
You’ll interview all kinds of people, collaborate with multiple agencies, and write detailed, legally sound reports.
- Highly observant + analytical
Agents notice what others miss; patterns, inconsistencies, and subtle behavioral cues.
- Ethical and grounded
Integrity isn’t optional. Agents handle sensitive information, vulnerable people, and high-stakes situations.
- Physically and mentally resilient
Training is demanding. The work can be emotionally heavy. You need stamina and coping skills.
The good news is that you don't need to have everything worked out right now. If this is a job that appeals to you, begin researching through relevant stages, such as criminal justice classes, ride-alongs, internships, professional conversations, or enrolling in FBI Teen Academy or Collegiate Academy programs when they become available.
You are drawn to this line of work because you want to tackle difficult problems, safeguard people, and actually change the world. You are already in line with the core of the work if that speaks to you.
Best wishes
I admire the fact that before deciding on a career path, you want a realistic image. Going into the FBI Special Agent position with an open mind is the best course of action because it's intense, high-impact, and meaningful work.
Since the work varies depending on your section (cybercrime, counterterrorism, crimes against minors, intelligence, etc.) and the current situation, it is actually difficult to define a "typical day." However, here is a realistic picture of what a typical day looks like:
- Morning: Briefings + Case Priorities
Usually, agents begin by going over overnight updates, following up on leads, getting ready for interviews, or working with their investigative team. Since priorities can shift quickly, a lot of the effort is focusing on what is important at the moment.
- Midday: Field Work
The variety starts at this point. One day you may be doing surveillance, meeting with local police enforcement, seeing a crime scene, or conducting interviews. Serving warrants or gathering evidence can take up another day. It's unpredictable, hands-on, and demands maintaining focus.
- Afternoon: Reports, Evidence Review & Coordination
Not flashy but necessary. Agents record findings, analyze data, and communicate with prosecutors or other authorities in real time. The documentation contributes to preserving the case's integrity.
- Evenings: Flexibility Required
After eight hours, some days come to an end. Others take a lengthy time because of active investigations, surveillance windows, or urgent leads. Although it doesn't always occur, work-life balance does exist.
When considering the kind of individual who succeeds in this line of work, a few characteristics come up often:
- Calm under pressure
Decisions often have real consequences. People who can stay focused when things get intense tend to excel.
- Strong communicator
You’ll interview all kinds of people, collaborate with multiple agencies, and write detailed, legally sound reports.
- Highly observant + analytical
Agents notice what others miss; patterns, inconsistencies, and subtle behavioral cues.
- Ethical and grounded
Integrity isn’t optional. Agents handle sensitive information, vulnerable people, and high-stakes situations.
- Physically and mentally resilient
Training is demanding. The work can be emotionally heavy. You need stamina and coping skills.
The good news is that you don't need to have everything worked out right now. If this is a job that appeals to you, begin researching through relevant stages, such as criminal justice classes, ride-alongs, internships, professional conversations, or enrolling in FBI Teen Academy or Collegiate Academy programs when they become available.
You are drawn to this line of work because you want to tackle difficult problems, safeguard people, and actually change the world. You are already in line with the core of the work if that speaks to you.
Best wishes