The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Operations Division-Aviation Division is seeking a qualified Airplane Pilot to provide vital aviation support for operational and intelligence elements. This role is based in Fort Worth, Texas and is essential for detecting, locating, identifying, and assessing illicit narcotics-related trafficking activities.
About the Role
As a skilled Airplane Pilot, the incumbent will operate multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft to transport cargo, equipment, sensitive materials, and personnel. Key responsibilities include supporting DEA Special Agents in various operations such as air/ground surveillance, photography, fugitive transport, reconnaissance, emergency evacuations, and specialized missions. The pilot will also provide expert aviation advice to DEA management and operational teams regarding aircraft capabilities, limitations, and safety. Comprehensive pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight responsibilities are expected, including aircraft inspections, fuel planning, weight and balance calculations, risk assessments, and obtaining necessary clearances. Pre-operational planning for enforcement operations to optimize aviation support is also a critical duty.
Requirements
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U.S. Citizenship is required.
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Successful completion of a background investigation and the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
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Subject to random drug testing.
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Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
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Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service.
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A 1-year probationary period (or 1-year/2-year trial period) will be served.
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All tentatively selected applicants must submit to urinalysis for illegal drug use screening prior to appointment.
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DEA Pilots must undergo an annual flight physical by a Designated Medical Examiner, compliant with FAA regulations.
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Must complete an annual DEA standardization check-ride.
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DEA Pilots require specific FAA-administered certificates.
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Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license.
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Successful completion of a flight assessment with a DEA Instructor or Standardization Pilot.
Qualifications
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Demonstrated possession of knowledge and skills for piloting aircraft, including proficiency in specific areas related to the position.
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Minimum flight hour requirements must be met, including recency of flight experience.
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Hold a current Commercial Pilot Certificate or appropriate military rating, including commercial licenses for single and multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft with an instrument rating. An Airline Transport Pilot Certificate is also acceptable.
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Minimum Flight Hours:
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Total Flight Time: 1500 hours
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Pilot-In-Command: 250 hours
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Night Flying: 75 hours
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Flying Time, Last 12 Months: 100 hours
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Multi-engine Airplane: 500 hours
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Instrument: 75 hours (at least 10 in actual instrument weather)
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Possess a current first or second-class medical certificate (dated within the previous 12 months).
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Successful completion of a flight assessment.
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Selective Placement Factor (SPF): Must possess a Commercial Pilot Certificate or Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (ATP) and either a valid First or Second-Class Medical Certificate.
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GS-13 Level: At least one full year of qualifying specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level. This specialized experience must include operating multi-engine fixed-wing airplanes and at least one of the following: formulating flight plans, adhering to flight procedures, or conducting detailed post-flight inspections.
Education
Education requirements do not apply to this vacancy announcement.