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What are some difficult things about being a DEA officer ?

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George’s Answer

I spent 23 years as a DEA Intelligence Research Specialist and Intelligence Group Supervisor. The first thing you should know is that there are several different career options in DEA. The three core career fields are Special Agent (Criminal Investigator); Diversion Investigator (Compliance); and Intelligence Research Specialist. There are also jobs as Chemists; Lab Supervisors; Administration, etc. Most people think about Special Agents when thinking about careers in DEA. Some of the most difficult things about being a Special Agent are the long hours away from your family, being called out at any time of the day or night when needed for an investigation or a take down (arrest), and frequent travel away from home. Being a DI or an IRS has less of a downside in this regard but still has much of the rewarding experiences of making a case working with the SA's and Attorneys and taking it to trial.

George recommends the following next steps:

If you are interested in applying for a job with the DEA you will need a minimum of a four year college degree and life experience. The military as well as state and local law enforcement are good places to start. Once you are ready contact your local DEA Office and they will put you in contact with a DEA Recruiter.
Depending upon which career field you are interested in there are many choices for your college major and minor. You do not need a degree in Criminal Justice but many people do start there. Languages, Finance and Computer Science are all good options for your major or minor as DEA needs these skills.
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