USFS Polygraph?

[TTT]

I did some searching and couldn't find an answer to my question, so hopefully someone can help me out. I recently applied to the forest service criminal investigator position. They mention there will be a background check, but don't mention a polygraph. Is that part of their background check? Do all 1811 positions require a polygraph? I know FBI, DEA, and SS require it, but other than that I don't know.

[ICE1811]

Not all.

[Kimble]

Is there a specific reason regarding your background that would cause you to inquire about a polygraph?

[TTT]

Is there a specific reason regarding your background that would cause you to inquire about a polygraph?

No, just curious. I'm trying to figure out how long the hiring process might be, and how it compares to other 1811 jobs. I just got notified that I have been determined eligible and that my name is referred to the selecting official. I have no idea what to expect next--perhaps a letter or a phone call. But it seems that they only do an interview, medical exam, drug test, and a background check. There's no mention of a poly, a written exam, or a pre-employment fitness test (although the posting says you must pass fitness test at FLETC.

The posting also says you must obtain initial certification by the USDA Security Officer to occupy a Critical Sensitive Position with Top Secret access (Code 3). How does this clearance compare to other agencies like the FBI?

Any other insights on the USFS hiring process would be appreciated. Thanks!

[TTT]

I'm mostly worried that the hiring process will be really fast. I'm not ready to accept the job in just a few months, although I'd love to. I just started with my current employer in March, and I'm under contract to work till the end of the year. I'm very nervous about my employer finding out about this, as they will not be too pleased. I sense some conflict coming real soon and now I'm a bit scared.

[Kimble]

I'm mostly worried that the hiring process will be really fast.

Federal hiring processes and "fast" together in the same sentence is an oxymoron. Having a polygraph is certainly something that will add time to a process, but I'm in the process with an 1811 agency that does not normally include the polygraph and it's still taken 2+ years to get through it (clock is still rolling as I haven't received an offer or a turn down yet).