SSG Update [Archive] - 911 Job Forums

JCMC219

06-29-2005, 09:20

Hey Sticky!

All I can say is that I am in the EXACT same boat as you. To date, I have completed all of the steps in the application process. However, I received a package in the mail about a week ago asking me to follow up on some medical issues (LASIK surgery and a few other minor things). My understanding is the same as Goodmails: Once all of the follow-up is sent in, it will be reviewed by the Chief Medical Officer and forwarded to adjudication if he/she gives us the go-ahead. In my case I was told by my AC that she's hoping to get the follow-up back ASAP so they can consider me for the August class. The only thing holding me up is WAITING for the doctors to fill out the forms and get them back to me. Unfortunately, one of my doctors is only in the office on Mondays! Can you imagine! He only has appointments ONE day a week!!! I am SO in the wrong profession! In any case, my intention is to hand deliver my follow-up packet to my AC by early next week. I can only HOPE that this gives them enough time to get me in for August, as I'm sure that class is already being selected. Has anyone here heard about being accepted for August already? I'm just curious to know. When all is said and done, though, I would consider it a GOOD sign that they are asking you for follow-up. If they didn't think that you were among the more qualified applicants they would have moved on to the next guy/gal by now. So hang in there, and keep us all posted!

StickyMits

06-29-2005, 10:34

JCMC219,
That sucks to hear about the situation with your doc; you are right one day of work a week sounds like something I could deal with too. Fortunately, the guy who called me yesterday said that all HQ needed from me was a written explanation from me about the prior blood pressure issue. Does this sound right? I was thinking of calling HQ just to make sure I didnt need a signed letter from my doc. I also hope to be in the August class because my next semester of school starts August 29th and I would hate to have to start a semester only to withdrawl from all my classes. But I can only hope. Best of luck to you too.

-Sticky

huckrot

06-30-2005, 13:29

I just had my LASIK follow up this morning and faxed it off. Then the lady said I still had to get fingerprinted and get a drug screen. SO I am not quite done yet...maybe one of these days!!

JCMC219

07-06-2005, 10:02

Ok, so I am STILL waiting to get a form back from ONE doctor for my medical follow-up. What is SO damn frustrating is that it will take him all of 5 mins to complete and fax the form back to me. However, given that he's only in the office on Mondays (and this past Monday being a holiday) I have been waiting for more than 2 weeks for him to fill out and return the form. This is incredibly frustrating ;) because I am HOPING to get into the August class. That being said, does anyone have any ideas as to when in August the Bureau is expecting to run the next class? Has anyone been called to attend this class? Any news or up-dates would be appreciated! I'm hoping that if I can get the form from the doc. in the next two days that I'll still have a shot at August.

I would REALLY hate it if I didn't make the next class all due to ONE doctor who can't take 5 mins out of his busy schedule to follow up on one of his patients. That would crush me!

Ok, enough venting. Hopefully the process is going more smoothly for the rest of you!

Balz161

07-06-2005, 16:13

GOT THE CALL!!!!

I will be starting in August. I can barely sit still!
:) :) :) :) :) :) :D :) :D

fmrmpa

07-06-2005, 16:43

That's fantastic -- congraulations 161!

H. Schoolboy

07-06-2005, 16:57

Congrats!

For me everything is riding on me poly re-test tomorrow. My BI and Med. were wrapped up months ago. Hopefully it will be August for me also.

Anyword on cities? Is the trend still towards the cities where you live?

JCMC219

07-06-2005, 17:18

GOT THE CALL!!!! I will be starting in August.

GREAT NEWS, BALZ161!!! Congrats! Any word on WHEN in August the class will be starting? I don't think that's classified since the start date for the last (July) class was posted here.

Oh, and just as an up-date, I suppose my persistence with my doctor paid off. Shortly after my earlier post he FINALLY faxed my medical form back to me. I sent it off immediately to my AC. Hopefully I made it in time!

And GOOD LUCK to you, Schoolboy!!! Have a blast tomorrow!!

techlotl

07-06-2005, 21:26

Anyword on cities? Is the trend still towards the cities where you live?

I just sent an email to the HQ person in charge of that kind of thing basically hinting that I'd like to transfer. She basically told me to take a hike (although in much nicer words). I'm sure they'll transfer someone who desperately wanted to stay. :rolleyes:

H. Schoolboy

07-07-2005, 11:28

Had my re-test. Short and to the point. Hopefully I won't be hanging for another 3 months.

Balz161

07-07-2005, 15:28

nope, no word on cities. I'm still in the dark

JCMC219

07-07-2005, 16:26

nope, no word on cities. I'm still in the dark

Whoa! So you actually got a final offer and haven't yet been given a city? I was under the impression that they told you where you were being assigned when they made the call. Apparently I was wrong on that one! Oh well, it just adds to all the excitement I suppose :D

Waiting every day for a call. Hoping it will come very soon. Not sure when the August class is scheduled for (no one seems to wanna say if its early or late in the month), but I hope I make the cut.

I hope you get the city that you really want Balz161! Hang in there and keep us up-to-date. :)

techlotl

07-07-2005, 20:12

Not sure when the August class is scheduled for (no one seems to wanna say if its early or late in the month), but I hope I make the cut.

I don't know what the exact date will be, but it will be late August/early September.

JCMC219

07-07-2005, 22:28

I don't know what the exact date will be, but it will be late August/early September.

You da man, Techlotl! Thanks for that info. It makes me feel at least a LITTLE bit better that I might have gotten my info in under the wire for August. :)

StickyMits

07-08-2005, 12:06

Congrats BALZ161!!! Thats good news...I am still waiting for my doc to sign off on that lasik surgery. Good luck with everything.

-Sticky

Balz161

07-11-2005, 16:08

First, I wanted to thank everybody for their kindness and help during the process.

Secondly, did anyone else get the call lately?

StickyMits

07-11-2005, 21:12

Still waiting for my doc to fill out that lasik form...hopefully, I will get into the august class...I hope its not too late!!!

JCMC219

07-12-2005, 11:07

First, I wanted to thank everybody for their kindness and help during the process. Secondly, did anyone else get the call lately?

You're welcome, Balz...You deserve the props for making it through the process. STILL waiting here. Just faxed in my medical follow-ups (which I am almost positive was the only outstanding element) early last week. That had to go from my local field office to D.C. for approval from the Medical Director. I'm hoping that this will not be a long, drawn-out part of the process. Every day I wait for the call. It's getting harder and harder to be patient! lol

Good luck to the rest of you!

huckrot

07-12-2005, 18:25

Had my LASIK follow up and now I have my fingerprints and drug screen on Thurs. So hopefully that will finally be it.

techlotl

07-12-2005, 19:04

Next SSG class 8/15/05.

JCMC219

07-13-2005, 13:49

Next SSG class 8/15/05.

Ok, so what are the chances that the Bureau has already filled the next SSG class? I would gather that they would have at least finalized the list by now, right? Just wondering if my/our chances of getting "the call" for August is getting slimmer and slimmer with each passing day :rolleyes: . I know that USUALLY no news is good news, but with just a month to go...? Any ideas, thoughts or feedback? How much lead-in time did those of you who have been accepted in the past get?

Thanks for the intel on the actual class date, though, Techlotl.

BigTex

07-13-2005, 14:21

JCMC219

07-14-2005, 15:26

JCMC- I don't have any knowledge about your question on when class lists are made, but I have seen it posted in another thread that it's determined 2-3 weeks in advance of the scheduled start date.

Thanks for the info, BT. Believe me, it does help to know that there might still be hope for August, and that I am not alone in waiting to hear back about a final decision.

Has anyone else gotten word about August? Haven't heard anything from anyone since last week!

JCMC219

07-15-2005, 14:44

...That is the question.

So I sent in all of my medical follow-up materials over 2 weeks ago and now I am just waiting on a final decision. I KNOW that patience is a virtue, but it's one that I am finding harder and harder to demonstrate these days ;) . When I last spoke to my AC she said that it should only be a short time in between submitting the follow-up paperwork and hearing from HQ. In fact, she said the goal was to get me into the August class, providing everything checks out ok with the medical. I called my AC to follow-up with her yesterday, but she's away on vacation. Wondering if I should call my Analyst in D.C.? I did call her once before (a few months ago), and she was very helpful. I just don't want to come across as being a total pain in the ass.

Not sure what has come over me. I am usually a very calm person. I suppose that I am SO excited about the possibility of getting into the SSG that I am overly anxious these days...to the point of being WAY pre-occupied with thinking about it all day long!

Maybe I'll give it until early next week before I call. Just hoping that I'll manage to sit tight throughout the weekend! :D

JCMC219

07-22-2005, 16:09

Oooooh...it has been eerily quiet here in the SSG thread for a while. Any news? Anyone? Bueller?

I decided to give in and call HQ today to inquire whether or not they received my medical follow-up forms. My AC went on vacation last week, and I am concerned that she might not have gotten the paperwork off to D.C. before she left. In any case, being that I haven't heard a word (yea or nay) with the August class just 3 weeks away, I made the call. The person with whom I spoke was very nice, but was unable to help me. Unfortunately, the individual who deals with the medical division had left the office for the day. I was told, again, that if I did, indeed, receive medical clearance that the goal would be to get me into the August class. I suppose it's always good to hear that reiterated. So I guess it's another weekend of waiting and worrying...that is unless I have the dreaded "thin letter" waiting for me in the mailbox when I get home from work today. But let's not dwell on that!

Does anyone know how many people there usually are in SSG classes? I know that the typical SA class is around 50, right (or so I've seen it posted as such)? I was just wondering how far along the Bureau might be on filling the August SSG class. As of right now, I can only think of 2 people on this forum who have been accepted (and I believe that one of them EOD'd for the July class). Any insights? Talk up folks! THANKS!!! :)

techlotl

07-23-2005, 17:09

Ok, so what are the chances that the Bureau has already filled the next SSG class? I would gather that they would have at least finalized the list by now, right? Just wondering if my/our chances of getting "the call" for August is getting slimmer and slimmer with each passing day.
As of today, the next class has not been filled. The class roster will probably not come out for another week or two. So, I doubt anyone's chances are getting slimmer just yet. If you don't hear by then, I'd start checking.

BigTex

07-23-2005, 18:05

Thanks for keeping us informed Tech!

JCMC219

07-25-2005, 19:13

At exactly 1528 hrs. I received a phone call from FBI HQ in D.C. informing me that I have been selected for an SSG position. My EOD is August 8th, with training set to begin, as was noted in earlier threads, on August 15th. :)

All I can say is that I had a moment of near incontinence when I saw the 202 area code on my mobile phone... :eek: And when I actually heard the news, I had a surge of all kinds of emotions: relief, joy, anxiety, surprise...You name it! It took a few hours to sink in, but now that it has, I am very happy...and most of all PRIVILEGED to have made it to this point with such a great organization.

I am both excited and nervous as hell about all of the possibilities for the future (especially the part about not knowing where I'll be assigned). In any case, I think the most important thing for me to be concerned about right now is thanking all of YOU for your sage advice over the months that I have been a part of this forum. Your professionalism is unmatched! I am sure that I will call upon your wisdom even more so as I begin my new journey as an FBI IS...But for now...THANKS again!

(Oh, one question that I forgot to ask the person who called me...I presume it's ok for me to mention to friends, family and co-workers that I got the job? I mean all of them knew I was applying for a position in the FBI that involves surveillance/CI/CT work...and many of them were interviewed for my BI. I just don't want to say anything if it is inappropriate)

BigTex

07-25-2005, 19:51

Wow...That's great news JCMC!! Congratulations and best wishes on your training and assignment!

scraggler01

07-26-2005, 09:10

Congrats JCMC....Good Luck to you.

Did they not tell you where you will be assigned? Kinda strange. How is someone suppose to plan?

JCMC219

07-26-2005, 09:31

Congrats JCMC....Good Luck to you. Did they not tell you where you will be assigned? Kinda strange. How is someone suppose to plan?

Thanks to ALL of you for your words of congrats. I am sure that your comments and advice over the past few months here in this forum are, in part, responsible for my success! As I said, I feel very privileged to have made it through the hiring process for such a great agency, and I look forward to meeting some of you in training!

As for where I'll be assigned...Well, no clue really. I know I report to my processing FO in 2 weeks then off to training a week later. I was told that I would receive my assigned FO either during the first week or when I'm in training. Basically, that means that the folks at the Bureau will tell me where I'm going when they are good and ready. I suppose I could totally stress out over the "X" Factors, but I have decided that it is best if I just TRUST the process. Many have gone before me and many will come after...and most have/will fare well. Not knowing where I will be assigned does put a bit of a kink in the planning ahead department, but I am lucky in that I am single and relatively unattached. I feel for those of you who have to consider relocating an entire family. Nevertheless, in the long run, I am sure that things will fall into place!

Hang in there everyone...And THANKS again!

scraggler01

07-26-2005, 09:46

Yeah I guess it really doesnt matter too much when you are in training for 7 weeks.

Anyway good luck to you and keep us posted.

ProudDad

07-26-2005, 11:12

Congrats, but scary, as I thought they told you where you would be assigned when the final offer was made.

MakeItHappen

07-26-2005, 11:48

CONGRATS! Well earned and deserved.

Kick some butt during the training.

fmrmpa

07-26-2005, 14:38

Congratulations JCMC! not an ssg applicant myself, but you all seem like good people. good luck!

huckrot

07-26-2005, 16:04

Hey congrats!! May that call will find its way to south Texas one of the days...

techlotl

07-26-2005, 19:51

I was told that I would receive my assigned FO either during the first week or when I'm in training. Basically, that means that the folks at the Bureau will tell me where I'm going when they are good and ready.
Just a guess, but I suppose they may assign you after you pass one of the first major tests. The one I'm referring to is kind of a hard one in that you only get one chance. If you don't pass the test, you don't pass go and you don't collect new employment. This test is where most people who don't make it get cut. (Sorry to seem coy, but I know someone will want to ask: for opsec reasons I can't talk about what the test entails. You'll know it when you see it.) I don't know that that's why they haven't told you where you'll be assigned, but like I said it's a guess.

JCMC219

07-26-2005, 20:10

Just a guess, but I suppose they may assign you after you pass one of the first major tests. The one I'm referring to is kind of a hard one in that you only get one chance. If you don't pass the test, you don't pass go and you don't collect new employment. This test is where most people who don't make it get cut.

Whoa! Talk about raising the bar on the anxiety level here...lol. I am ALREADY anxious about not knowing where I may be living for the next several years, nervous about making a good first impression, worried about not messing up royally in the first week...and now I have to add to the list a surprise test that I will supposedly "know when I see it" and have only one chance to pass!!! Geeeee...THANKS Techlotl!!!!! :D Just kiddin. I mean it does increase my anxiety levels a bit...ok, maybe A LOT...but I suppose I better get used to that sort of thing! In any case, thanks for the heads-up on why I may not have been given an assigned Field Office as of yet.

StickyMits

07-27-2005, 15:22

MakeItHappen

07-27-2005, 15:42

JCMC looks like I will be joining you in the academy next month!!!! Thats right about an hour ago I too got "the call". I am super excited!!! Now its time to finish out the semester and take care of some loose ends. Before you know it the 15th will be here. My congrats goes out to you man.

-Sticky

Congrats to you as well. You guys serve as motivation to many of us. I'm excited about my upcoming interview. Best of luck to you in your new career and kick some butt during training.

JCMC219

07-27-2005, 15:56

JCMC looks like I will be joining you in the academy next month!!!! Thats right about an hour ago I too got "the call"...-Sticky

WAY TO GO, Sticky!!!! Congratulations! I look forward to meeting you in August!

~JCMC219

techlotl

07-27-2005, 17:48

Whoa! Talk about raising the bar on the anxiety level here...lol. I am ALREADY anxious about not knowing where I may be living for the next several years, nervous about making a good first impression, worried about not messing up royally in the first week...and now I have to add to the list a surprise test that I will supposedly "know when I see it" and have only one chance to pass!!!
If it makes you feel any better, I still haven't gotten the call to go and you have. Statistically you'll pass with no problems if you stay dedicated. It's a very small percentage who don't pass and you seem to have your head on straight, I don't think you'll have any problem. T There are entire classes that pass without losing one person. I myself am wigging out about the tests, but it's all about keeping your cool! They want to know you can work under pressure. :cool:

BigTex

07-29-2005, 09:02

baseballdad7

07-30-2005, 09:45

Posted in another thread by accident. I haven't received the call, but I have completed the process and have a coe. I do have a question that maybe someone who has received the call can answer. I was speaking with a civilian employee at my FO today who said my "target completion date" was 072505. Can someone explain what that means or what happens when you reach that date? Thank You.

JCMC219

08-01-2005, 12:28

I was speaking with a civilian employee at my FO today who said my "target completion date" was 072505. Can someone explain what that means or what happens when you reach that date? Thank You.

Hey baseballdad...I have been through the process for SSG and was recently accepted for the position. Unfortunately, I never heard anyone mention such a thing as a "target completion date" in my case. However, I would imagine (and this is purely conjecture on my part) that the person with whom you spoke was referring to the time when the Bureau had hoped to close all the leads on your BI. Each Background Investigator is given a date when he/she has to have a report to the analyst in DC who is handeling your case. Once the reports and leads are all in, a dertimination can be made on your BI.

I hope this info helps you a bit. Perhaps others here who have been through the process can chime in with more details for you. In the meantime, good luck with your process!

MakeItHappen

08-01-2005, 13:09

Hey everyone. I just returned from my interview in Philadelphia. Interview was interesting. Good luck to everyone in the application process.

techlotl

08-02-2005, 15:03

Aaargh!!!! I just found out why I haven't been called for class: The clinic didn't send in my TB test. F! You're kidding me, right? It was very negative and I did everything I was supposed to do, but they didn't send in the test and it took the people at HQ almost 2 months and me pestering them to tell me. ;) and again I say ;) and just let me add :cool:
Now that I've vented my spleen, hopefully the fact that it's a simple test means that I can still get in under the wire for 8/15.

huckrot

08-02-2005, 21:22

techlotl

08-02-2005, 21:39

well yours is a TB test, mine is my credit! I was twice late by 30 days a few years back on a credit card and I had to explain myself about that today. I really hope that I am not DQ'd on that. But with my luck, who knows. Morale of the story: pay your bills on time, lol.
I will 96.37% guarantee that this isn't a DQ. They just want to make sure that you won't be in a position susceptible to blackmail or financial hardship that would open you up to temptation. If you're current now and have an excuse for a few late payments a few years back, you should be golden. Now my buddy that found out through his BI that he is in fact currently delinquent on his student loan payments, he got DQ'd. It was a shot out of left field for him, he thought he was paid up.

But seriously, TB? I mean comeawn ;)

JCMC219

08-05-2005, 09:46

So I report to my local Field Office on Monday morning for my first day on the job. I am both excited and a bit nervous...but looking incredibly forward to it. I would imagine that my first week will be filled with completing one form after another, and with me asking important questions like: "How do you take you coffee?" "Where can I take out the trash?" and, "May I file that for you?" LOL. To be honest, I am so excited about this new career path that I wouldn't mind doing any of those tasks...and with a smile on my face too! :D

Today is my last day with my current employer. I'm sitting here in a bare office, boxes packed up and ready to go. At the same time, it will be a bit sad to leave. The FBI marks not only a new job for me, but a change of careers. I have spent the last 16 years doing EMS and education, so this will be a very new adventure for me. I hope to be able to put my paramedic and EMS background to use with the Bureau at some point, maybe offering training to some field agents, but for the most part I am looking VERY forward to the new challenges of life as an SSG (providing I make it through training).

BigTex

08-05-2005, 09:57

JCMC - Congrats again. I know you'll do well in training. It sounds like you've been a medic for a few years now -- Hell, if that job doesn't prepare you to stay cool under pressure and learn quickly, I don't know what would. Just try to find the time to log on and keep us updated on how things are going!

Tech - Glad to hear you've got your problem straightened out. Looks like we'll be in the next class (after the 8/15 one) together---whenever that will be. If you get any news about possible dates, please let us know.

Good luck to everyone heading off for training!

ProudDad

08-19-2005, 11:39

Gosh this thread has been dormant for a while....

ProudDad

08-19-2005, 11:43

Has anyone who has been hired for this position been able to successfully negotiate theie step. I got the COE at as GS9 step 1 which is about cutting my pay in half-I'm not really sure I could afford to do this.

scraggler01

08-19-2005, 12:08

Last time I heard anything from my AC was about 2 weeks ago. She was asked by HQ to get a written statement from me regarding a citation I recieved about two years ago. But by BI was complete except for that. I fax the statement and called my AC back and talked to her about a training/hire date. She said she didnt think we would make the Aug 15th date and they were trying to get me into the October class. I think it is either the first or second week of october. Anyway thats where I am in the process. Havent heard anything lately but hopefully soon.

Doesnt everyone.

huckrot

08-19-2005, 17:17

I was told yesterday that the FBI is trying to finalize a few hundred apps. They have to have all hiring completed by the end of September. So I guess we shall see what happens.

techlotl

08-21-2005, 18:44

ProudDad

08-21-2005, 20:42

Any current SSG's that can tell me about how often they go away on those 30 day assignments? I have kids and need to think about the time away from home

BigTex

08-22-2005, 08:57

I just got off the fbijobs site where there is a new announcement posted that says "Selectees must successfully complete an ELEVEN WEEK training class" Whaaaa? I wonder when they're starting that. As of now, the classes are six weeks. Very interesting.

Holy cow! Almost doubling the training time? That is very interesting indeed. Oh well, I guess I better go pack five more pairs of underwear. :D

bad_timing

08-22-2005, 10:27

I was told yesterday that the FBI is trying to finalize a few hundred apps. They have to have all hiring completed by the end of September. So I guess we shall see what happens.

Does this refer to all positions that folks are currently in the pipeline for i.e. SA's and I/A's?

huckrot

08-22-2005, 10:34

I dunno. The lady I spoke with that has been handling my paperwork didn't say and I didn't ask. I would imagine its SSG only since that number seems a little low to me.

SoCalBlackWhite

08-23-2005, 20:30

Just received a CO from FBI for the SSG/1801. Wanted to know how long it is taking some of you to make it through the poly/BI/med/psyche?

Additionally, I know that there are a ton of threads regarding what the SSG does. However, the more I search, the more vague it gets and the more confused I get. I know that the primary function is mobile surveillance, however, I have also read that they perform other functions... I know that they are unarmed, but carry creds and some sort of shiny tin though. Can enyone here elaborate on the other? Any hypothetical situations which you may encounter as a SSG? I am deciding between this and a few local agencies. Ultimately I'd like to be a Fed, but I just want to get the best experience I can.

I guess this gets into the debate of whether I want to be career FBI or career police... hmmmmm decisions.... :D

MakeItHappen

08-23-2005, 21:13

Just received a CO from FBI for the SSG/1801. Wanted to know how long it is taking some of you to make it through the poly/BI/med/psyche?

congrats, when did you interview? I interviewed in August in Philadelphia.

SoCalBlackWhite

08-23-2005, 22:16

GetEm

08-24-2005, 22:21

June, it took them a hell of a long time to get it moving. I was told to expect a FedEx. Nothing ever arrived, and then *poof* an email in mid-August. I just wish I could learn more about this position. I am really leaning toward one of local PDs here because FBI simply doesn't give a straight answer about the full duties of this job.

Go figure ;)

I interviewed in June as well. I have not spoken to anyone since but, my online status changed to "Selected for position pending favorable background"

ProudDad

08-25-2005, 16:03

I interviewed in June, a week later status changed to "Not Selected", but two weeks later received COE via email, status still remains "Not Selected" although BI began last week.

Desert Rat

09-01-2005, 10:46

hello to all from the desert. I am new to the forum, although I have followed for a few weeks. The posts are informative and professional....thats why I decided to join... I am currently a Background Investigatior doing contract for the Feds, interviewed for the ssg positon on 8/9/05 with still no word...too soon I suppose. Question: Has anyone gone from the interview, directly to PSI interview, and drug test on same day...there was a post that somewhat indicated that. I am simply trying to determine if SOP is to have the panel interview and nothing else until contacted by headquarters, or if the best candidates begin the process the same day if they are to be selected?

Thanks...

ProudDad

09-01-2005, 11:37

From what I have seen there is not standardized process; it seems to be dependant upon where you are processing. I had my interview, coe, then my BI began before the PSI etc..

MakeItHappen

09-01-2005, 11:43

I had my interview, PSI, urinanalysis and was fingerprinted on the same day. All of this was done on 8/1/05 in Philadelphia. Good luck to everyone in the process...

SoCalBlackWhite

09-06-2005, 02:34

As of right now I interviewed in late June, COE via email mid-August, and have sent in requested documents to determine the step of my GS Grade. I have yet to hear about anything regarding a piss test, psych, poly and the start of the BI. From what I am reading, the majority of BIs start rolling without your knowledge.

I will be subscribing for this thread.

Good luck.

SoCalBlackWhite

09-06-2005, 02:36

Any updates for anyone on this thread?

scraggler01

09-06-2005, 12:04

Got the call today.

High noon time.

Reporting the local field office on the 26th of sept.

Training on the 10th of oct.

Rough Final Timeline:
--------------------
Nov 04- Applied Online
Mar 05- Panel Interview
May 05- CO Email, BI Began, 3ps (all in the same day), Fingerprints
June 05- Wait
July 05- Wait
Aug 05- Wait
Sept 6th 05- Final offer

Good luck to all in the process. Hang in there. :D

ProudDad

09-06-2005, 12:11

Congrats!! Did u attempt any negotiation on the starting salary? What FO?

MakeItHappen

09-06-2005, 13:10

scraggler~

congrats and best of luck to you in the new career

fmrmpa

09-06-2005, 13:22

congratulations scraggler!

bad_timing

09-06-2005, 13:53

Congrats! Working for the bureau must be a dream! Enjoy your new career.

SoCalBlackWhite

09-06-2005, 23:55

Scraggler-
Congraduations. You have my full on admiration brother. Have a question if you don't mind. Was your FO designated in your CO or in your telephone offer?

Also had another few Qs on the Gs in general. Since the Gs is much more of a spook tradecraft type of job, what is the deal with overseas travel (I assume this is part of the job as it seemed pretty apparent in the description)? Also I remember reading that the training program is now 11 weeks. Can this be confirmed? Also, are Gs assigned take home G-rides, as the job requires last minute mobility?

I am sorry for the battery of questions, but the more I read about SSG, the more excited I get. Good luck to all.

scraggler01

09-07-2005, 10:35

Thanks everyone.

SoCal, I will give the best answers to my knowledge:

Since the Gs is much more of a spook tradecraft type of job, what is the deal with overseas travel (I assume this is part of the job as it seemed pretty apparent in the description)?

I have no idea. I would imagine some TDYs could be overseas. Im not for sure.

Also I remember reading that the training program is now 11 weeks. Can this be confirmed?

For everyone hired to start training Oct 10th and after the following will apply:

This is what I told. I was told the training class on the 10th of Oct will be 6 weeks long. Then, although it may not be concurrent with the 6 week class, they are adding an additional class which is 4 weeks long. Also there is a defensive driving course, which probley consumes the remaining week. I am not sure on locations for the DD class or the 4 week class. May or may not be at Q. This is what I was told. Thats all.

Also, are Gs assigned take home G-rides, as the job requires last minute mobility?

I believe they are given take home vehicles. From what I have read on here. But other than that I have no idea.

Sorry I couldnt be of more help. Take it easy everyone and good luck to you in the future.

huckrot

09-07-2005, 11:42

Congrats man...as I stare at my phone now, haha
please ring...

lawgirl77

09-07-2005, 22:36

I am new to this forum. I found it helpful to read through the posts as I am thinking of looking for employment with the FBI, etc.

What does PSI mean? What is COE?

Thanks!!! :star:

dwf131

09-07-2005, 23:00

PSI = Personnel Security Interview

COE = Conditional Offer of Employment

Also Check

http://www.911jobforums.com/vB/showthread.php3?s=&postid=38016#post38016

electra1978

09-07-2005, 23:04

I am new to this forum. I found it helpful to read through the posts as I am thinking of looking for employment with the FBI, etc.

What does PSI mean? What is COE?

Thanks!!! :star:

EDIT: OK, that's eerie. I posted the exact same info/same thread referral as DWF131 at the same time so I edited my info for redundancy... :)

Hey there and welcome to these fine boards. :wave:

What sort of employment are you considering? Special Agent? Intel Analyst?... Feel free to PM me with any Q's you may have...

SoCalBlackWhite

09-08-2005, 00:06

Scraggler-
Thanks a ton. You basically confirmed what I had assumed. Congradulations again. I guess I am now in the BI phase. Just watch that clock and wait right ;) :)

I came from Customs (excuse me, ICE) and did some work at DEA and basically took what I had learned from there and applied it to the Bureau. Point being, no other FLEA has a position like SSG, hence I inferred a lot from what I had taken in.

Take it easy.

Its all a waiting game from here.

dwf131

09-08-2005, 00:33

EDIT: OK, that's eerie. I posted the exact same info/same thread referral as DWF131 at the same time so I edited my info for redundancy... :)

Hey there and welcome to these fine boards. :wave:

What sort of employment are you considering? Special Agent? Intel Analyst?... Feel free to PM me with any Q's you may have...

ELECTRA1978, That is erie!

I just applied to SSG under the open announcement (or recently closed). See if I make it to the interview and on... The wait is on! I can't wait to wait!

df

FedSpook

09-08-2005, 02:30

Changed my callsign in light of getting the COE. Formerly SoCalBlackWhite. I can't wait for the FBI.

Sorry, just extremely excited and motivated. :ot: :) :D

scraggler01

09-08-2005, 10:23

No problem and congrats on the COE.

lawgirl77

09-08-2005, 11:01

PSI = Personnel Security Interview

COE = Conditional Offer of Employment

Also Check

http://www.911jobforums.com/vB/showthread.php3?s=&postid=38016#post38016

Thanks everyone for the help! I will try to catch on to all the acronyms you all use on here. Congratulations to the people who have been accepted!!! Put in a good word for me...hahahaha...

bobvila

09-09-2005, 08:33

I've been mainly lurking these forums for the past few months. I received my FO on 9/6. I report to my field office on 9/26. (now I get to wait to see where they will send me after training.) I wanted to wish everyone who is still in the process good luck, and remind you that patience is a virtue when waiting for a job with the feds.

ProudDad

09-09-2005, 10:08

Bob, You mean you got a FO without knowing where you will be assigned? How do you really evaluate the offer without the knowledge as to what locality pay you will receive? Any idea if this is common practice?

rolltide

09-09-2005, 11:22

It depends on if they are just hiring, or if they are making a push called "blitz" hiring. The blitz hiring process is like cattle through a slaughter house...otherwise, one step at a time.

FedSpook

09-10-2005, 06:10

Feels to me like its a regular hire. Although I am surprised that the Bureau is turning out backgrounds in a consistent three month time period.

AS for the FO assignment, can anyone provide a definitive (okay maybe that is asking for a little too much) explanation on how the Feebs do SSG FO placement. I remember in my COE that it said my FO will be decided by the SSG Program Manager. IS this a rabbit out of a hat deal or is consideration taken to where you currently live, where you have lived and where you have placed on your wish list? I know this is a lot to ask, but having been at ICE and DEA (which operate completely different FO assignment systems), I have no real idea how the FBI does it, particulary for the Gs.

Thanks and best to everyone.

bobvila

09-12-2005, 10:44

When I interviewed, they told me that they were hiring for 5 different cities. I've done research on each of the cities, and while I have preference to some of them, I wouldn't mind any of them. They all have something to offer me and the locality pay is acceptable. I currently live in DC and knew that living here would be only transitional for me.

MakeItHappen

09-12-2005, 10:48

When I interviewed, they told me that they were hiring for 5 different cities.

Would you mind sharing what those 5 cities are?

bobvila

09-12-2005, 10:56

Would you mind sharing what those 5 cities are?

Sure.

New Orleans (I guess not an option now), Portland OR, Chicago, Charlotte, and Honolulu.

MakeItHappen

09-12-2005, 11:10

Sure.

New Orleans (I guess not an option now), Portland OR, Chicago, Charlotte, and Honolulu.

:gpost: Great info. Best of luck to you and everyone else in their career goals.

JCMC219

09-12-2005, 22:57

Hey everyone!

It has been quite some time since I last posted to this forum...mainly because my SSG training has been keeping me pretty busy these days. Nevertheless, I thought I'd take a moment to offer a few insights that might be helpful for those of you who are in the process of applying. Clearly, given the sensitive nature of SSG training, my comments will be limited so as not to compromise OPSEC. At the same time, I know how much it helped me to read posts from SSGs on this forum when I was in the application process. So here it goes:

1) WAITING for "the call" to come is a pretty frustrating thing that we all go through, but you should know that if and when it does come you need to be prepared to move QUICKLY. I received the call from FBIHQ with a final offer exactly two weeks to the day before they wanted me to start. Needless to say, that didn't give me a lot of time to inform my current employer that I would be resigning. In fact, I had to submit my letter of resignation the very same day that the Bureau called me so as to be eligible to be paid out my benefit time. All that being said, I was extremely happy and humbled to have been offered the position, so I gladly did whatever I had to to facilitate the transition.

2) You may or may not be told where you are being assigned when you receive your final offer. This is NOT an attempt to be deliberately vague or elusive on the part of the Bureau. Simply put, the Program Manager makes this decision based on the needs of the Bureau. The SSG is expanding (hence the frequent openings posted on USAJOBS), so the needs are greater in certain cities than in others. Be aware that they are very serious about the mobility agreement that you sign before you are hired. Also be aware that nothing is set in stone until you complete training. You may be initially assigned to one city, but re-assigned to another before training ends. This is not a common occurrence, but it CAN happen. When it comes down to it, you must be open to the idea of moving to where the Bureau needs you. Lucky for me, I was assigned to the field office closest to where I currently live.

3) My classmates and I all reported to our local or processing field offices for the week prior to the start of training (except, of course, for those individuals who were already Bureau employees). The first few days in the field office are filled with the usual administrative matters (i.e., reading through various insurance plans and retirement benefits, taking I.D. photos, etc.). The rest of the week is what you make of it. I have read posts here suggesting that new SSGs are treated poorly in the field offices and expected to do a lot of "menial" tasks. I will not refute the experiences that some folks on this forum claim to have had, but I can say that I was treated quite respectfully. Was I asked to do some filing? Absolutely. Was I pissed about that...NO WAY! In fact, I kind of found it interesting (although not terribly exciting) to learn the system that the Bureau uses to file its cases. In the long run, knowing a little bit about this system will help you to understand how to find/refer to your cases when you are on the job. And, in defense of the local field offices, I ask: "What do you expect them to do with you?" You are only there for a week, and you have no training! Give them a break if they ask you to do something that doesn't seem to be in your job description. They are just trying to find you a place to fit in for a very short period of time. Pitch in and do what you need to do as part of the team.

4) Many people ask what they should bring with them to training. I'll go into that in a moment. However, I would like to mention one thing that you should NOT bring to training. Do NOT bring with you ANY pre-conceived notions about what training is like or what it "should" be. Just come with an open mind and trust the process. The schedule may seem to be a bit crazy at times, but I assure you there is a method to the madness. You can and will learn a great deal from the instructors IF you choose to. You will make mistakes, so be open to criticism. You will have opportunities to show that you can learn from your mistakes, so take advantage of them. You will work as a team with your classmates, so make sure to contribute positively to the group. Overall, just RELAX and HAVE FUN!

5) What to bring? You should receive a letter or e-mail giving you the details on what basics to bring with you to training. In the end, you won't need much more than what you would expect if you were taking any other six week long trip. That being said, I'd suggest that you bring a variety of clothes, from business attire (i.e., collard shirts and ties and a full suit or two for men) to casual and work-out attire. Some sort of a backpack to carry a change of clothes in might be helpful as well. You should bring your normal toiletries, but don't fear if you forget something. There are plenty of places within a reasonable proximity if you need to buy toothpase or whatever else you might need. As for bringing your POV, I would say that it is not really necessary unless you plan on traveling home or locally on weekends or during your personal time after training has finished for the day. I did bring my POV and I can say that I have only used it twice in the entire time that I have been here.

6) As to the training itself, I can say very little. Be prepared to learn a lot, but remember that there is no need to freak out about exams, practicals, etc. Yes, there are exams, but you should do fine IF you devote the time and effort to study that it deserves. There are also plenty of good instructors who will help you out IF you take the initiative and ask for help...and if you do everything to help yourself.

7) Many people ask if there is any PT involved in training. I can say that there is no PT requirement, but that you should be in decent shape before coming to training. What I mean by decent shape is that you must be able to walk at a brisk pace for a good distance (let's say 1.5 miles or more at a time). You should also be ready for the normal to moderate amounts stress that come with studying, long days and learning new things.

8) LASTLY...I said it above and I'll say it again...Come to training prepared to work hard and to HAVE FUN!

Ok, sorry about the very long post, but I had a lot to say given my long absence from the forum. I hope this info is helpful to some of you! Good luck everyone!

FedSpook

09-13-2005, 01:02

I just can't wait... its killing me... Seriously, I really can't wait. That COE just put the right amount of taste in my mouth.

Thanks so much for the post JCMC. Best of luck to you and have fun at the Q. :banger:

FedSpook

09-13-2005, 01:06

All sound great to me. Thanks for the info bobvilla :D Where are all of you in the process right now?

My BI is going on right now... I think. COE was received in mid August, 2005, which requested me to send in some documents to begin the BI. Haven't heard anything since. Guessing that, like the rest of FLE, no news is good news.

BigTex

09-13-2005, 09:47

JCMC - Thanks for all the information. Glad to hear you're still alive and doing well with training.

huckrot

09-13-2005, 12:34

Thanks a lot for that JC. I am still waiting and hoping. I think a lot of us are getting concerned about how they are assigning people to field offices. Sounds like a crap shoot. But hey it can't be as bad as living on the Mex border! Course they will probably send me to McAllen haha.

sednec

09-13-2005, 14:35

hey mcallen is not that bad, cheap housing, good mexican food,no winter, and only 20 percent of the population speaks English. :D

FedSpook

09-14-2005, 06:15

Two words, Ajo, AZ. :D Its gotten to the point where I don't care about what FO I get (with the exception of the Midwest, no offense, just not my place). Just get my BI done and get me a date at the Q. :banger:

dwf131

09-14-2005, 14:55

JC

Thanks for the information. Good luck with the rest of your training.

MakeItHappen

09-14-2005, 15:02

JC

Thanks for the information. Good luck with the rest of your training.

Likewise :D

techlotl

09-20-2005, 17:33

Finally!!! I got the call today :banger: . Hope to meet some of you in the next class!

ProudDad

09-20-2005, 17:37

Congrats! Where were you assigned? Close to home or a move involved?

MakeItHappen

09-20-2005, 17:38

Finally!!! I got the call today :banger: . Hope to meet some of you in the next class!

First, congrats!

Secondly, can you offer your timeline?

techlotl

09-20-2005, 20:51

I will be staying in my current division. I was trying to get a transfer out since they transfered me in for my current job, but it's not going to happen. Also, I don't think that my timeline is really representative because I'm on board and I got stuck in the black hole known as medical review. I applied about a year ago.

JCMC219

09-20-2005, 23:08

Finally!!! I got the call today :banger: . Hope to meet some of you in the next class!

CONGRATULATIONS, Tech! Great news on your acceptance into the next class. I wish you all the best!

dwf131

09-20-2005, 23:46

CONGRATS Tech! Good luck in training.

FedSpook

09-21-2005, 01:37

Congrats tech! Good luck at the Q.

Indiana314

09-21-2005, 16:46

Is there any amount of past drug use that the FBI will tolerate in a IS candidate?

If so, how often and how long ago?

Thanks.

H. Schoolboy

09-21-2005, 16:49

Same as the SA policy. Its on the web site.

baseballdad7

09-21-2005, 18:11

Congrats Tech. Does anyone know what AAU stands for in relation to the SSG process? I was told today by someone at my local FO that my file was updated on 091905 and everthing went to "AAU." I'm guessing something to do with adjudication of my file. Am I on course with my thinking and if so, how long can adjudication take?

Thanks

FedSpook

09-21-2005, 18:50

baseballdad -
Do you have a timeline? Can you post it?

Thanks and good luck.

baseballdad7

09-21-2005, 19:20

My timeline is approximately:
Applied - Nov 04
Interviewed/PSI/Urinalysis/Prints - Mar 05
BI - Initiated Middle of May 05
Poly - End of May 05
Physical - June 05
Medical Followup August 05
Submitted to AAU 091905

That's about it.

Wicked1

09-21-2005, 19:31

Is there any amount of past drug use that the FBI will tolerate in a IS candidate?

If so, how often and how long ago?

Thanks.

This is the FBI policy on drug use. You can also find it on their website:

FBI Drug Policy

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

FBI Employment Drug Policy

The FBI is firmly committed to a drug-free society and workplace. Therefore, the unlawful use of drugs by FBI employees will not be tolerated. Furthermore, applicants for employment with the FBI who currently are using illegal drugs will be found unsuitable for employment. The FBI does not condone any prior unlawful drug use by applicants. The FBI realizes, however, some otherwise qualified applicants may have used drugs at some point in their past. The following policy sets forth the criteria for determining whether any prior drug use makes an applicant unsuitable for employment, balancing the needs of the FBI to maintain a drug-free workplace and the public integrity necessary to accomplish its law enforcement mission.

CRITERIA

A. An applicant who has used any illegal drug while employed in any law enforcement or prosecutorial position, or while employed in a position which carries with it a high level of responsibility or public trust, will be found unsuitable for employment.

B. An applicant who is discovered to have misrepresented his/her drug history in completing the application will be found unsuitable for employment.

C. An applicant who has sold any illegal drug for profit at any time will be found unsuitable for employment.

D. An applicant who has used any illegal drug (including anabolic steroids after February 27, 1991), other than marijuana, within the last ten years or more than five times in one's life will be found unsuitable for employment.

E. An applicant who has used marijuana within the past three years or more than a total of 15 times in one's life will be found unsuitable for employment.

To determine whether you meet the FBI's drug policy, please answer the following
questions:

1) Have you used marijuana at all within the last three years?

2) Have you used marijuana more than a total of 15 times in your life?

3) Have you used any other illegal drug (including anabolic steroids after February 27, 1991) at all in the past 10 years?

4) Have you used any other illegal drug (including anabolic steroids after February 27, 1991) more than a total of five times in your life?

5) Have you ever sold any illegal drug for profit?

6) Have you ever used an illegal drug (no matter how many times or how long ago) while in a law enforcement or prosecutorial position, or in a position which carries with it a high level of responsibility or public trust?

If you answer YES to any of these questions, then you are unsuitable for employment with the FBI.

huckrot

09-22-2005, 12:34

Well I was asked to start at the Q on Oct 17, so thats good. Course I don't know where I am going haha, this could be evil. Also, no mention of showing up for a week beforehand. Anyway, she was kinda short on the phone and said i'll recieve a letter that should explain everything! Anyway, I gotta go transfer from CBP, this is a happy day. Anyone else reporting on the 17th pm me. Laters
huck

fmrmpa

09-22-2005, 14:29

congratulations! good luck down there and wherever it is you end up.

baseballdad7

09-22-2005, 19:04

Congrats huckrot! I saw where there was an Oct 10th SSG class. Is there an Oct 17th SSG class or was that a typo?

huckrot

09-22-2005, 20:18

Thx baseballs, fmr . Well I was told Oct 17th. So maybe there is a concurrent Oct. 10 class. I dunno. Anyway, the calls are rolling in...

:vader:

baseballdad7

09-22-2005, 20:25

I guess there is still hope. If there is two classes, that is twice the opportunity. Apparently I am in adjudication now, so I wait..................

MakeItHappen

09-23-2005, 10:47

I just received a phone call this morning and was offered my COE based on a successful BI. I interviewed for the position in early August of 05 in Philadelphia. Best of luck to everyone in their respective phase of the application process.

ProudDad

09-23-2005, 10:57

congrats!

FedSpook

09-23-2005, 11:02

Great Job MIH! Get ready to hunker down and wait with the others of us who have the COE. Last class for 05 is supposedly OCT 17. Then its on to 06. So hopefully they have an early one in 06 to coincide with our paper work process.

Congrats bro.

ProudDad

09-23-2005, 11:10

Mt BI has been going for about a month, still waiting for PPP- never had a PSI. Personally, I'd hope to get a call in Jan for a final offer as that way I would get my bonus and stock options offered at my current job to help defray the salary cut id' have to take.

FedSpook

09-23-2005, 11:19

Proud Dad -
I got my COE in mid August. Have yet to have PPP administered too. So I am guessing that no news is good news and that my BI is trucking along fine. I've managed to get back into the hurry up and wait mode.

QUESTION for the Thread

Have one Q regarding the poly. Is the poly a lifestyles poly (more geared toward intelligence and national security) with questions such as "Have you ever had illegal contact with foreign governments?" or something like that, or is it more of an LE poly w/ questions like "Have you ever used Cocaine?"

I was polyed once for another LE job and did fine. Just wondering what this one is like since it is an intel related job in a LE Agency.

Thanks

ProudDad

09-23-2005, 11:21

I have no direct knowledge of the structure of the test, but I assume it is a mixture of both. I got my co in july; I wish the step was a little higher

MakeItHappen

09-23-2005, 15:01

Thanks for the replies everyone. Still a way to go but it is nice climb a rung on the application ladder. Best of luck to everyone in their respective pipelines. :D

dwf131

09-23-2005, 21:45

MAKEITHAPPEN:

Good luck and congrats!

Timeline:
Applied 08/05

FedSpook

09-24-2005, 02:41

Also got a phone call today from HQ asking if I was still interested (I had received an August COE) ;) :D . After expressing my feelings, I was informed that my BI was to start and that they would be in touch. Its about time :D

When speaking to the HR rep about the BI, she informed me that her BI took about 3 months with "extensive overseas living." I have only lived in two places in the US to which she replied that it wouldn't take to long.

Here's to SSG! Good luck to all in the stages.

dwf131

09-26-2005, 20:12

I did a search, but could not find the meaning to PPP. What is it?

ProudDad

09-27-2005, 09:50

Physical, Pee Test, Polygraph

fmrmpa

09-27-2005, 09:55

always considered it to be more PSI, prints and urinalysis.

dwf131

09-27-2005, 18:12

Thanks for the reponses.

baseballdad7

09-27-2005, 20:47

Anyone know how long adjudication can take for SSG?

greeneyes

09-27-2005, 21:27

Anyone know how long adjudication can take for SSG?

As long as HQ wants? :D

Seriously, there's no set time. At this point, I wouldn't count on making it into the October class. It might happen, but not likely since we're less than 2 weeks away. I don't believe there's another class scheduled in calendar 2005, so you're likely to wait until after the first of 2006 now for a class date.

Oh, and there's only one October class, but there's a huge mess over when people are starting. Some people are starting a week later than others, but there's not two classes, just one. So just the standard number (under 50) getting in.

baseballdad7

09-27-2005, 21:30

There is a Oct. 17th class. Someone posted getting the call for it a couple of days ago.

baseballdad7

09-27-2005, 21:31

I stand corrected.

greeneyes

09-27-2005, 21:39

Yeah, there's really not two classes, just a usual Bureau mess. :D

And something that's been mentioned here a few times, but needs to be reiterated... Right now, you may or may not know where you're going to report after training before you leave for class. It's just like the SA process, it's based on the needs of the Bu. And even if they tell you, it doesn't mean that that's set in stone until you're graduated, moved in, and on the street. The needs can and do change.

Just remember that, by applying for this position, you're agreeing to a Mobility Agreement. That's not something they take lightly at all. And if you're not willing to abide by that, please be courteous enough to step aside and allow the people who are willing to move wherever the needs of the Bu dictate to have the spots in class. They can and do change final locations, and you're only hurting your fellow applicants if you go in knowing that you're not willing to abide by this agreement that you're required to sign.

Don't mean to sound harsh at all, but this is something that has somewhat changed for the SSG. It used to be that they called you with your FO, class date, and a few cities to pick from. That's not happening anymore, the SSG is growing rapidly and their needs are changing, so you need to be aware of the situation and know what you will choose to do when it comes your turn.

FedSpook

09-28-2005, 00:12

October 17th is the last SSG class till 06. It was confirmed by someone I know who is in the program.

I'm hunkered down and ready to wait. At least the BI is starting.

baseballdad7

10-07-2005, 21:03

For those of us who have been waiting for awhile, how long is the medical and the BI good for in the SSG process?

huckrot

10-11-2005, 13:37

Just call your AC dude. They can tell you. Also FYI, if you can get your AC's email, they might be a lot quicker in getting back to you. I found that was a lot easier than trying to get through on the phone.
l8r

FedSpook

10-16-2005, 10:50

Just wanted to know how many of us are in the BI. I was notified that the Bureau would begin my BI in late SEP. I received another COE phone call and said that I was still interested. Concurrently, two friends of mine who applied for IA received similar phone calls that week and before I knew I was getting calls regarding them as I was placed as a reference. However, no phone calls were being made about me.

Is SSG different in the way they do their BIs? Is there a different process to the madness or should I pick up the phone and call the contact number I have in DC? I have been through this process before with USCS/ICE and DEA, and I'm kind of getting a bit anxious since I have yet to hear anything from either Bureau or friends/references. Additionally, I was told that I should also hear about the PSI and have yet to hear anything about that.

Regarding my history, I have held two fed jobs, and only lived in DC and Boston. I have just relocated to LA for the interim and need to update my info as well but was told by DC to hold off until I was contacted by my BI.

OOOOoooohh the drama.... :D Any help, advice, or flaming is appreciated... to a certain extent on the latter.

greeneyes

10-17-2005, 10:37

Just wanted to know how many of us are in the BI. I was notified that the Bureau would begin my BI in late SEP. I received another COE phone call and said that I was still interested. Concurrently, two friends of mine who applied for IA received similar phone calls that week and before I knew I was getting calls regarding them as I was placed as a reference. However, no phone calls were being made about me.

Is SSG different in the way they do their BIs? Is there a different process to the madness or should I pick up the phone and call the contact number I have in DC?

I wouldn't stress too much about it at this point. Since the SSG doesn't have another class until CY 2006, I doubt their BI's are on the top of the pile. If yours doesn't have a due date on it until December or something, it's likely there are just some others ahead of yours. :)

It's a typical Bu BI, so it'll be just like your IA friends' or SA candidates. But with the timing being quite far off in Bu terms, you may not hear anything until late October or November.

MakeItHappen

10-17-2005, 15:30

Walked into my place after getting back from a nice vacation and there was a message from the investigator doing my background investigation. Fortunatley, he left the message this morning and I was able to get back to him on the same day. Very pleasant and professional gentleman. I'm excited to see the ball rolling. Good luck to everyone in the process!

MakeItHappen

10-19-2005, 16:19

Just went outside for my evening run and my neighbor calls me over, FBI interviewed him this morning. I then check my mailbox and I have a letter stating I am scheduled to report to a Field Office on 11/03 for further processing. What a welcome surprise! Good luck to everyone in the applicaiton process.

FedSpook

10-20-2005, 02:36

Damn now I'm really beginning to wonder. I think you mentioned MIH that you received your verbal COE in late SEPT. Thats when I did as well. Wonder what is going on? Would having two prior BIs done account for not being contacted yet? I talked to a friend of mine who I used to work with at USCS/ICE and he brought that up. However, knowing how adamant the FBI is about doing their own BIs, I doubt that would account for the hold up.

I called DC since its been about a month and no word, and not to my surprise, no call back after leaving a message.

Huh... :o

MakeItHappen

10-20-2005, 02:55

Sorry everyone, in the haste of writing my previous post, I forgot to provide where I am being processed out of:

Newark, NJ

Good luck to everyone in the process.

ProudDad

10-21-2005, 14:41

Just got the call to schedule my PSI. Kinda weird that it came 2 months after my BI started; thought they did it before the BI? At least its progress!

FedSpook

10-21-2005, 16:36

Finally got in touch with someone affiliated with my BI. It HAS been going on for a month already, so I assume that a lot of it was referencing my previous BIs at my former agencies. Updated my info and evidently the new FO where I am at will be getting in touch with me about the three Ps.

Guess mine was just more of a shadow game... :D

On a side note - Picked up "My FBI" by FMR Director L. Freeh. Looks like an awesome read, 30% off at Borders.

GetEm

10-31-2005, 21:22

I havent seen much activity around here lately.....anyone get the call? :o

greeneyes

10-31-2005, 21:54

Not many calls going out right now. It's a good 2.5 months until the next class. Usually, most activity is in the last 4-6 weeks before a class starts.

GetEm

11-01-2005, 19:47

Im going to be doing medical soon and I will be all wrapped up.

MakeItHappen

11-03-2005, 11:26

Took my poly today and have my medical scheduled for next week. Best of luck to everyone in the application process.

FedSpook

11-03-2005, 17:47

My BI is in full swing. Next comes the 3 Ps.

The next SSG/Intel class is slated for Jan 22nd. Looks like we are on track for that.

Best of luck to all.

Desert Rat

11-07-2005, 21:57

Received a call last thursday 11/3 to schedule my PSI. The lady asked me if I was aware my BI had been started...I replied..no. It is scheduled for tomorrow morning at 10:00 am. I ask if I should expect the poly and or med/psych on the same day. She said no to the poly, the examiner was booked but stated she was not aware a med was required. She indicated HQ had not requested one. :o I'm thinking cool 'cause I'm no spring chicken...but I'm also very sure there is no such luck, she is just not well informed, although she is the one that will be doing my PSI :o ..go figure.

Tonight there was a message from a buddy, also a reference on the sf86 that he as meeting with an FBI agent this evening. He is on the east coast, I'm in Arizona so I know my BI has been scheduled for some time.

Anyone else with any news...updated class schedules, etc...?

Good Luck to all of us...especially ME :cool:

FedSpook

11-08-2005, 09:44

BI in full swing. Local FO is working on getting all my Ps scheduled. Supposed to get a call back NLT the end of the week. Things are moving relatively quickly.

When did you all get an AC? I was talking to a very helpful woman at the FO I am at and I told her that I never got a name or number to call to make updates or to check in with. She seemed shocked. I guess she's taken me in as an orphan. :D Do we need a full medical as well? I thought support positions didn't require that?

Good luck
Alex

ProudDad

11-08-2005, 11:55

MakeItHappen

11-08-2005, 12:32

Just returned from my physical today. Good luck to everyone in the application process.

greeneyes

11-08-2005, 13:06

Full medical is required, as is proof of all vaccinations. If you're out of date on any, they'll make you re-up them. Most support positions don't require a medical, but SSG isn't like most support as anyone in the SSG can tell you. :) Once you're in, medicals are required periodically as well.

As far as classes go...one firmly scheduled for mid-January (has a few people lined up for it already), one tenatively scheduled for early- to mid-March. Don't know beyond that. Early in the year classes can be hard to staff, so things always end up changing.

Desert Rat

11-08-2005, 16:54

Had two of my P's this am. PSI and Peeeee, plus fingerprint. There is an AO in my FO, but the PSI interviewer, an HR person, gave me her card as the contact through my BI process. She also indicated my BI had been going since late October and the completion date is set for 11/18. It has to be at HQ then. She said my process seemed to be going pretty quickly, probably filling the pipeline for early '06.

Is the medical a full one? By that I mean chest x-rays, electrocardiogram, blood panel, fingerwave a.k.a. prostate exam, eye, hearing, range of motion, and flexibility? Or is it a glorified sports physical we used to take each year in high school for football?

From what I understand this may be our last set of holidays to enjoy on the traditional days with our families....what with the rooks drawing holiday duty and such....

HOOYAH!!!!!!

MakeItHappen

11-08-2005, 17:11

Is the medical a full one? By that I mean chest x-rays, electrocardiogram, blood panel, fingerwave a.k.a. prostate exam, eye, hearing, range of motion, and flexibility? Or is it a glorified sports physical we used to take each year in high school for football?

You hit the nail on the head minus the fingerwave, ROM and flexibility.

Definetely not the high school one but that was a :fpost:

baseballdad7

11-08-2005, 17:38

Anybody else here for SSG that has completed everything and sitting in adjudication twilight zone?

FedSpook

11-09-2005, 04:06

Jeez, by all the talk here, it sounds like I really got lost in the system... Now I'm concerned. Hopefully I hear back from my contact this week as promised.

baseballdad7

11-09-2005, 16:23

My file for SSG has been in adjudication since the middle of September. I just spoke with someone who checked my file and it had been updated on the 2nd of Nov., with the abbreviation SASAU. I can't find that on the abbreviation page. Any bureau folks know what this is?

greeneyes

11-09-2005, 22:24

From what I understand this may be our last set of holidays to enjoy on the traditional days with our families

VERY good point. Take the time to enjoy it, guys...it doesn't happen like this again. You don't have to worry about what shift you're going to work, which days you're going to be able to RDO, if you're going to be allowed AL or if someone more senior has already requested it off...

A few may find out their status before Christmas, but take note: Bu HQ becomes a ghost town in December. Many people have excess "use or lose" and take much of the month off. So don't stress if you hear nothing between Thanksgiving and the first of the year. There's no one there to answer your questions, there's a skeleton staff to ensure that the existing people are taken care of, and bugging them really isn't a good way to get yourself known in the relatively small SSG front office. They'll hit the January class hard once the first of the year comes.

Truly, just enjoy the holidays. I know it's tough to say that, especially when you feel like everything's up in the air, that you have no control of the future, etc etc etc. Been there, done that, got several different shirts. But take the time to appreciate your friends and family these next two months. Because once you hit the SSG roller coaster, things get rather interesting.