So You Want to be a Federal Agent?

[ffjweber]

Thanks for the info about tattoos. I have two tattoos on my forearms, so I guess I don't fit the average.

I personally know I do not have the credentials as it stands right now, but that is why I am researching this now. I have about half of a Bachelor's Degree worth of college credits, and have about 12 years to go until the age 37.5 cutoff. (I also realize it may -- scratch that -- WILL take several years to complete the hiring process (if I even make it that far).) 6 years being a full-time FF, I have excellent job security, and I certainly don't have anything to complain about (although us fireman can ALWAYS find something to complain about... ;) )

My biggest cause for concern is the fact that age 37.5 is the oldest one can be and still get hired as a Federal Agent. Big problem since with 20 years I would be 39. ((((early retirement!!))))

Hey- who knows, maybe in 5 years USMS will target FIREFIGHTERS and create a whole new line of hiring initiatives. :eek:

Ok, now I don't want to piss anyone off............................... :cool:

[ROS]

Originally Posted by ffjweber

Thanks for the info about tattoos. I have two tattoos on my forearms, so I guess I don't fit the average.

I personally know I do not have the credentials as it stands right now, but that is why I am researching this now. I have about half of a Bachelor's Degree worth of college credits, and have about 12 years to go until the age 37.5 cutoff. (I also realize it may -- scratch that -- WILL take several years to complete the hiring process (if I even make it that far).) 6 years being a full-time FF, I have excellent job security, and I certainly don't have anything to complain about (although us fireman can ALWAYS find something to complain about... ;) )

My biggest cause for concern is the fact that age 37.5 is the oldest one can be and still get hired as a Federal Agent. Big problem since with 20 years I would be 39. ((((early retirement!!))))

Hey- who knows, maybe in 5 years USMS will target FIREFIGHTERS and create a whole new line of hiring initiatives. :eek:

Ok, now I don't want to piss anyone off............................... :cool:

I don't know of anyone retired from one job and then becoming a federal agent. Even if you went into the military at 17 and did 20 years active duty, you'd be pushing it if you got hired at 37. If you're serious about becoming a federal agent, retiring as a hose-dragger... er, firefighter, is probably not a reality.

I do know in the past ATF recruited firefighters with arson investigative skills. Might be something worth looking into if that fits your interests.

[aegis319]

Just got a TO for a position with my Agency's IG. Can anyone tell me what to expect next? I haven't received a call from the HR person yet...the hiring Agent called me to tell me to expect a call from HR.

[ROS]

Originally Posted by aegis319

Just got a TO for a position with my Agency's IG. Can anyone tell me what to expect next? ...the hiring Agent called me to tell me to expect a call from HR.

I think you just answered your own question (re-read the portion in bold if needed).

[Joeyd6]

I am a 1811 with an IG....PM me.

[Switchback]

Originally Posted by ROS

I don't know of anyone retired from one job and then becoming a federal agent. Even if you went into the military at 17 and did 20 years active duty, you'd be pushing it if you got hired at 37. If you're serious about becoming a federal agent, retiring as a hose-dragger... er, firefighter, is probably not a reality.

I do know in the past ATF recruited firefighters with arson investigative skills. Might be something worth looking into if that fits your interests.

FWIW, I know ONE guy that was able to collect a full pension before getting hired by us. He went into the AF Academy at 17 and the clock started. He did 20 years as a pilot and slid into a USMS position at 37.

...and scratch what I said here:

Originally Posted by Switchback

It's a good thing you are not set on the USMS. There is no real avenue for you to be hired with current hiring initiatives.



Generally speaking, sleeves may make things a bit of a challenge for you to get hired. Many of us have tattoos, some pushing the half-sleeve. I work with a few guys with tattoos on their forearms (but there are not many). Most of us have them where they can be (reasonably) covered up with short sleeved shirts.

I have since finished my sleeve. I know 2 others in my officer working on theirs now.