Upon applying for an Investigative Assistant job with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Office of Personnel Management, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Possess a valid state driver’s license
- Ability to pass an intensive background check
- Ability to pass a drug test
Educational and Skill Preferences
Although it is not a pre-requisite for all Investigative Assistant jobs, a college degree is highly recommended. Not only does a bachelor’s degree increase the applicant’s competitiveness for these in demand careers, but also it also directly impacts the pay level at the time of hiring. In order to join ICE at the GS-5 pay level, it is necessary to have a bachelor’s degree, four years of post-secondary education, or have at least one year of professional experience that is equivalent to a GS-4. This would include duties like
- Spreadsheets
- Word processing
- Databases
- Desktop publishing
- Graphics applications
Some applicants may use a combination of work and college classes to meet this qualification.
Experience and Background
A GS-6 rating requires the applicant to possess at least one year of professional experience equivalent to a GS-5 employee, which would include producing reports, collecting program information and resources, and using law enforcement computer systems.
A GS-7 pay rating would be awarded to applicants who have served for at least one year at the GS-6 level or its equivalency by performing the following duties:
- Conducting law enforcement related searches through information systems
- Collecting information to make recommendations and reports
- Identifying and correcting anomalous information
A college degree also affords many prospective Investigative Assistants the opportunity to acquire and develop new skills needed to succeed in this demanding profession. These skills include
- Oral and written communication
- Competencies with office management and administrative support practices
- Typing
- Information technology management
How to Apply for ICE Investigative Assistant Jobs
In order to begin the application process, prospective Investigative Assistants must visit www.USAJobs.gov, and click on the link for a job posting.
If the candidate meets these qualifications, they will be asked to provide an application package that should include a resume, college transcripts and any documents certifying military veteran or law enforcement preference. An Occupational Questionnaire may also need to be completed, and typically assesses the candidate’s professional skills and competencies.
If the application receives a high enough score, the candidate will be asked to interview with ICE investigative personnel and hiring managers. These interviewers will evaluate the candidate’s abilities and character. If approved, the candidate will be subject to an exhaustive security check and drug test. A period of training at one of Immigration and Customs Enforcement training facilities may also be required.