What Does it Take to be Part of DEA?

To succeed in its vital mission, DEA needs hard-working, talented people who are committed to keeping our nation safe from the damage drugs cause. There are many opportunities within the agency: on the streets, overseas, and behind the scenes.

Special Agents receive intensive training to prepare them for the rough world of drug trafficking. Through undercover work, surveillance, and sheer persistence, Special Agents methodically gather evidence against drug traffickers, money launderers, and laboratory operators who conduct illegal activities. This evidence must be solid, since it will be used in court to prosecute traffickers and their conspirators.

But it takes more than just agents to get the job done. Special Agents rely on others within the agency during their investigations.

• Intelligence analysts help with the "big picture" as well as providing agents with analysis of traffickers' activities.
• Forensic chemists analyze the drugs found at crime scenes or obtained in undercover deals.
• Diversion investigators track down illegal pharmaceutical transactions, chemicals used to make drugs, and doctors who illegally provide patients with dangerous drugs.
• Lawyers advise DEA employees about the best legal ways to bring notorious traffickers to justice.
• Technology experts are critical—they know about the latest gadgets, computer systems, and wiretap equipment, all great tools to bring down the traffickers.