View Full Version : The New IOI Thread
chamorro77
07-13-2005, 20:03
Has anyone received anything (a phone call, an interview, etc.) from ATF besides their Notice of Results from the March 2005 vacancy announcement.
;)
Just the NOR, nothing after. Anyone know of possible upcoming interviews for this announcement?
Had anyone made one of these yet?
Biddy1998
07-18-2005, 13:16
1172,
When are you supposed to report to SLC? Did they want you to report before you went to FLETC? Good luck to you.
I think all of us in the August class are reporting to our new offices on Aug 8th, before shipping to FLETC on Aug. 22nd.
Biddy1998
07-18-2005, 17:08
August 22nd huh? Well good luck to you guys, I hope to be able to say that I am reight behind you soon. I have my fingers crossed for the October class, if there is one. Drop me a line if you guys are able to confirm this while at FLETC.
1172,
When are you supposed to report to SLC? Did they want you to report before you went to FLETC? Good luck to you.
That's right, I do report to SLC on Aug 8th. Just bought my plane tix today actually. We will keep you posted on the October Class. Gotta keep that info flowing.
It seems so crazy that just April we were all moaning about the June and August class... and it's almost here. -- around the corner .. two weeks... and i'm still not packed.
Me niether. I'm getting rid of everything too, to make for an easier move. Bed, chairs, bed & chairs...I guess that's everything I own actually. Next time around, I'm gonna consolidate them into a futon.
So how many of us in the Aug class? 4, 5...?
Biddy1998
07-21-2005, 23:27
Me niether. I'm getting rid of everything too, to make for an easier move. Bed, chairs, bed & chairs...I guess that's everything I own actually. Next time around, I'm gonna consolidate them into a futon.
So how many of us in the Aug class? 4, 5...?
Sorry, just had to comment. My futon is the best investment I ever made. :) THe funny thing is I have been so set that I will have to move over the last couple of years I have avoided buying anything. Let me paint you a picture of cinder blocks, boards and my chair/bed (futon). Its grand.
I'll be seeing everyone in August!
As far as the moving is concerned, I'm jealous. My wife and I have A LOT of stuff. I've got boxes stacked to the ceiling in my garage. All I need is the truck, which I've got reserved for next weekend. I was looking at paying a moving company, but the estimates were through the roof! The good news is I've got help on the loading end. It's the unloading where I'll be flying solo. So when you see me, I'll be the guy that can't stand up straight due to the sore back from moving my family for this new job. Good times!
christienyca
07-22-2005, 08:49
My husband and I are almost fully moved into our new house. We plan to be fully moved in by next weekend. You never really know how much stuff you have until you start packing. Good luck with your cross county moves. See you all in August.
So it looks like the class list so far is simon, christienyca, and me (1172).
Just so you guys recognize me down there, I'll be the 500 pounder with the wheel chair. oxygen tank, and mini afro.
Anyone else on board for Aug?
So it looks like the class list so far is simon, christienyca, and me (1172).
Just so you guys recognize me down there, I'll be the 500 pounder with the wheel chair. oxygen tank, and mini afro.
Anyone else on board for Aug?
Don't forget me!!!!
Don't forget me!!!!
Many apologies, 4 of us then. 4 fantastic study buddies.
Many apologies, 4 of us then. 4 fantastic study buddies.
And study you will....we just finished our 4th test on Thursday....man what a load off my shoulders. You guys and gals are in for a real treat here in beautiful Brunswick, GA :rolleyes:. The August class may have the same exact timeline in class as us with a few minor changes in the length of time of certain classes. Well, it's time for me to relax and do a brain dump...graduation is on Monday :bounce: . Good luck to you all.
And study you will....we just finished our 4th test on Thursday....man what a load off my shoulders. You guys and gals are in for a real treat here in beautiful Brunswick, GA :rolleyes:. The August class may have the same exact timeline in class as us with a few minor changes in the length of time of certain classes. Well, it's time for me to relax and do a brain dump...graduation is on Monday :bounce: . Good luck to you all.
Is there only 4 tests? Congrats on passing!
Biddy1998
07-23-2005, 17:37
So, is there anyone else out there that is still waiting besides me? ;) ;)
It has been 5+ weeks now since I sent in my BI packet and I haven't heard a single peep. I was just wondering if anyone knows the process for the BI> Do they contact you first, or just hit the streets and your job? Anyone?
Thanks for the help, and good luck to the "fantastic 4"
So, is there anyone else out there that is still waiting besides me? ;) ;)
It has been 5+ weeks now since I sent in my BI packet and I haven't heard a single peep. I was just wondering if anyone knows the process for the BI> Do they contact you first, or just hit the streets and your job? Anyone?
Thanks for the help, and good luck to the "fantastic 4"
They contacted me first. I met with the guy, and he got more info and names from me. Within a few days he talked to 15 people or so. It was a lot. It took more than 5 weeks for him to get ahold of me though (from the time I sent in the packet), but I don't remember exactly how long.
-Good luck
Biddy,
It took some time for my BI investigator to contact me. When he did, we had a sit down meeting where he confirmed everything on my BI packet and got even more info. from me.
I have nothing to base this on, but I'm guessing you'll be hearing something now that the June class is graduating. In all likelihood, the ATF doesn't like to get overstretched with the number of people they've got waiting for future classes. Running eveyone through the BIs too early would put the agency in a situation where it would be faced with having to pay twice for each BI: the initial BI and the update prior to an offer. Better to wait and spend the tax dollars when the class is in closer proximity to the completion of the BI.
Keep your chin up. Bad news travels faster than good news. Without a thin letter, there's no reason to panic. When the call comes, you'll be surprised how fast the investigator can complete your BI if he/she is given a deadline.
Good luck!
S-
Is there only 4 tests? Congrats on passing!
Thanks 1172...so far there are only 4 tests. But changes are on the way over the next few classes and I don't know what they are. The class expressed several suggestions to help improve the class for future trainees. All in all, we are all getting into a great job.
Good Luck all.
Just curious - I noticed on the pay scale there were "steps" with each grade. How do you move from step to step? How often do you "move up"? Do you hit each step before you move up an entire grade??
Thanks! :o
Were there any people in your class that did not pass the tests? Did you have to spend a great deal of time studying? I don't particularly test well so I am a bit nervous :(
lukeaustin
07-25-2005, 10:38
Thankfully the current class is getting ready to graduate b/c we need more people than we currently have. I can tell some of you, depending on where you will be going, will be doing your fair share of overnight travel. I spend 2-3 nights each week in a hotel. Your Field Training will vary in each office. I had previous investigative experience and was cut loose to be on my own 3 weeks after FLETC. B/C most of you are coming on as GS9s, your training time should be very short as they hired you b/c they thought you could do the job quickly. I have no complaints about this job. I am waiting for a date to take the TEA in NYC but I do like this job. In this job, just when you get tired of going into pawn shops, you go somewhere and experience something that you never thought possible. If I don't make it as an 1811 with ATF, I will stay in this position forever b/c I simply love firearms and love working with people in the industry.
steps and grades have been covered a lot in different threads, so please do a search. Simple answer is you generally move up from your entry grade to the journeyman grade by going up a grade, thus if you start at a 7 you would become a 9 after a year, then an 11 (for some reason 8 and 10 get skipped a lot) and then after some period of years the agency defines you would move to a 12 which is the full performance level for an IOI (also journeyman grade). When you reach the full performance level or in a year where you do not move up a grade, you will move up a step within the current grade. This generally works out as a step a year for so many years, then a step every two and then finally a step every three. Exceptional performers may recieve a step as an award, known as the gift that keeps on giving because it changes your base salary level for future steps.
lukeaustin
07-25-2005, 11:53
Just to let those of you in the pipeline for IOI slots know, the journeyman level for this position is GS 12 as ATF SAC mentioned. However, when you get to your office, you will probably work with IOIs who are GS 13 or are putting in for their GS 13 within this year. GS 13 will never be the journeyman level, at least according to the current DAD but it is attainable. You have to apply to the annual vacancy announcement when it comes out and you have to submit KSAs. Out of the people who put in for GS 13 last year, 95% were selected. The other 5% fell into one of two categories: they either lied about the type of work they had done or they wrote horrible KSAs. In the end, you are the one that has to sell yourself. Don't think that just b/c those in your office and field division (A/S and DIO) know how good of a worker you are, that you'll get your 13 guaranteed. I for one applaud how this is handled as it makes those of us in the field prove our worth. It's not paybanding by any stretch of the imagination but it makes you feel better when those people who don't work hard are turned down for their 13. It shows that the system is working in my opinion. I hope more of you come to my field division, whether it be in the Field Division office or in one of the RAC offices. Actually, I hope you come to the Field Division office b/c I want to transfer to one of the RAC offices if I don't become an agent. And if I do become an agent, I hope they transfer me somewhere else anyways b/c I do not think I want to live here for another 10 years.
ATFSAC, so what you are saying is that you have to wait a few years to make GS-12. I was under the assumption you got it automatically. Generally how many years does it take to make your 12?
lukeaustin
07-25-2005, 13:29
You get your GS12 as follows: GS5-one year, GS7-one year, GS9-one year, GS11-one year, GS12-one year. So, in 2005, you start as a gs7, 2006 is a gs9, 2007 is a gs11, 2008 is a gs12, 2009 is a gs13 if you've done the work you should have and can document it. This is how things are handled now. You do not have to wait several years for your GS12. It was like that previously but now currently.
Luke, thanks for the quick reply. What is the typical schedule we will be working? I heard someone say on here a while back that some offices gave their inspectors three day weekends every other week. Is this true?
IOI's may be eligible for alternative work schedule or flexitime depending on the office and the needs. Ultimately, you are going to put in 80 hours a pay period but at least one of the available schedules would generate an additional day off every 2nd week. Plenty of rules around all this and you may well not get the day consecutive to a weekend. Seniority very much governs who gets what in the IOI world under the bargaining unit agreement. You'll get in tune with all of this after you complete training and work with a senior IOI for a while.
lukeaustin
07-25-2005, 19:42
Work schedules are just like ATF SAC said in regards to AWS/Flex Time. However, very few people in this position, at least the newer hires, are being offered this option. One of the newer guys in our office had to wait 1 year to be approved for this schedule. I personally do not work it but that is just me. I cover the western portions of 2 states (both over 2 hours from the office) so I like to have Fridays in the office if I can help it to plan ahead for the next 2 weeks. My office is literally swamped with work and I am always booked for 2 weeks ahead of time. Now throw in a T/L Report coming in on the 3310.11 and your week may just be starting to get hectic. If you've promised someone you would meet them this week for their application inpsection, you're still going to meet them. There are days where I work 12 hours/day and days where I may only work 7 hrs/day. I'm not a comp time freak as I figure what I give to ATF, ATF gives back to me. When you start out new, you need to make sure and remember this attitude. Very few of the IOIs care about the union anymore and most of us wish the union would just go away. When you get to the office, and have to listen to that one person always saying what is/isn't allowed per the union contract, you'll get tired of the union very fast. Sorry for the ramble, but one of my pro-union co-workers was spouting off again today about some inequity.
Were there any people in your class that did not pass the tests? Did you have to spend a great deal of time studying? I don't particularly test well so I am a bit nervous :(
Don't put any un-due stress on yourself. No one failed the course, we all passed. If you read the material and pay attention in class..you'll do fine.
A friend of mine who interviewed way back in March finally got his BI packet yesterday. He'd given up hope. Looks like things may be on the move again!
lukeaustin
07-26-2005, 06:26
I do not have dates that I can give you guys for FY06 but I can tell you that the plan is to have at least two more classes at FLETC for 2006 with the same number of people as this year. In my office alone, we have 4 people eligible for retirement within the next 3 years so we need to be ready to replace them.
Been around long enough to see both stupid management and stupid union tricks and fully recognize that absent core issues both sides can get caught up in yada yada about trivia. However, like a lot of things a good place to begin is where things are rather than where they might be if we had it all to do over again. IOI's are represented by NTEU as the recognized bargaining agent and subject to rules negotiated between ATF and NTEU in a contract (collective bargaining agreement). Luke is on the money that for most IOIs this whole thing is a matter of little interest or participation, but it is important to understand that under law the agency must discuss and agree upon certain issues with the union and recognize that agreement as covering a range of issues effecting all covered employees - regardless of their individual choice about membership and participation. Thus if every IOI in a division wants it to be X but the agreement only allows Y, it will be Y.
Point is that while there are many terrific folks in ATF who are active with NTEU, without your participation it will often be the voice of folks with whom you disagree and under the law it is recognized the same as if it was your voice. Make up your own minds about this. Having chaired a bargaining unit council in my old division I found it a great communications tool, but my inclination was always to get information out to people. I would just make the case that with the rules that are in place the best way to drown out the voices you disagree with is by active participation. Or by loudly singing "It's a Small World" when a co-worker starts a rant on something you don't care about.
Biddy1998
07-26-2005, 09:34
A friend of mine who interviewed way back in March finally got his BI packet yesterday. He'd given up hope. Looks like things may be on the move again!
Yeah, it seems like they are. I tested in Jan and interviewed in March and just got my packet in June. As you all know packet has been in 6 weeks now and I am awaiting contact from a field agent. Good luck to everyone in the pipeline.
:D :D :D
Yeah, it seems like they are. I tested in Jan and interviewed in March and just got my packet in June.
I also interviewed in March - still nada. Ho-Hum..... :rolleyes:
Biddy1998
07-27-2005, 12:58
I also interviewed in March - still nada. Ho-Hum..... :rolleyes:
Have you received any contact in regards to your BI process?
I interviewed in Feb. I met with my BI in late March. He got everything in by early June. No word from ATF. I'm obviously not in August class, but I guess I'm still in the pipeline. Hopefully the rumors of an October class are true, and hopefully some of us will be in it! Good luck to all.
lukeaustin
07-27-2005, 13:49
We just had one of our new people come back from FLETC today and she said that there is going to be an August and October class.
Biddy1998
07-27-2005, 13:55
We just had one of our new people come back from FLETC today and she said that there is going to be an August and October class.
Great info guys, thanks for keeping it coming. Good luck to all.
justice07
07-28-2005, 08:22
I would say that things are heating up! I interviewed in March and was contacted in June by the local field office giving me a heads up that I would see a BI packet soon. I finally got the packet on Tuesday and will have it back in the mail to DC this afternoon. I spent time in the military, where everyone knows the phrase "hurry up and wait", but this has taken it to a new level!
:D
Biddy1998
07-28-2005, 12:01
I would say that things are heating up! I interviewed in March and was contacted in June by the local field office giving me a heads up that I would see a BI packet soon. I finally got the packet on Tuesday and will have it back in the mail to DC this afternoon. I spent time in the military, where everyone knows the phrase "hurry up and wait", but this has taken it to a new level!
:D
Good to hear, congrats. Hope that we all start hearing good info soon.
Biddy1998
07-29-2005, 10:24
Great news guys, my BI investigator contacted me this morning, its and OPEN FILE !!!! :D :D :D I have to meet with him soon, but he wanted to go talk with the university and previous employment. Can't wait, FLETC is almost within my grasp. Thanks for all the support.
:bounce: :bounce:
That's great news. Does your BI have any word on potential classes or start dates?
Biddy1998
07-29-2005, 11:36
That's great news. Does your BI have any word on potential classes or start dates?
Don't know yet, but I will try to confirm that there is an October class. I am supposed to meet with him within the next couple of weeks, however, he wanted to inform me that before we meet he will be contacting people. In fact, he even told me this morning who he planned on contacting and that he would be doing it today.
Don't know yet, but I will try to confirm that there is an October class. I am supposed to meet with him within the next couple of weeks, however, he wanted to inform me that before we meet he will be contacting people. In fact, he even told me this morning who he planned on contacting and that he would be doing it today.
That's great news. I understand that there will be no confirmation about any classes after the August class until the budget is finalized and signed, but I'm sure they have a date set aside just waiting for the word. It would be helpful to have a time frame set aside. Hopefully those of us in the process now will get that first class of FY06. Keep us posted of your progess.
justice07
07-29-2005, 13:55
Thats great news Biddy! If offered a position, are you pretty flexible with regards to office location? :)
Well gang, today was my last day as a CBP officer. That bird has flown. I am officially unemployed (until my reporting date of Aug 8th in SLC). But don't you guys worry about my financial state, I got myself a real nice shoe shine stand to see me through. If that doesn't work I'll paint myself silver and dance like a robot when people put money in my tin cup. Gotta keep that money flowing. Did anyone else quit yet?
Hey.. it's not the fantastic four... it's the fantastic five.
You forgot me.. i'm in the august class too, and i suck at test taking as well. the credit card test freaked me out.
1172 -- i quit too, but i still have all of next week to go cos of medical insurance.... i was told to hold on to my insurance until my benefits kicked in with the feds. even a few days without makes me nervous.
i hated my job, so it's a relief to say the least.
Biddy1998
07-29-2005, 18:38
Thats great news Biddy! If offered a position, are you pretty flexible with regards to office location? :)
Yeah, I am really flexible. 25 yrs old, not married, no kids, no house .... I think I am about as flexible as they come. I guess now I just wait to see what my BI has to say and hope that I will be on my way to FLETC soon.
Good luck to the FANTASTIC 5 !!!!
Hey.. it's not the fantastic four... it's the fantastic five.
You forgot me.. i'm in the august class too, and i suck at test taking as well. the credit card test freaked me out.
1172 -- i quit too, but i still have all of next week to go cos of medical insurance.... i was told to hold on to my insurance until my benefits kicked in with the feds. even a few days without makes me nervous.
i hated my job, so it's a relief to say the least.
Don't you sweat the test taking, we're all in this together. We won't let you fail. No one failed the last class. If it's anything like the immigration training I went through a few years back we'll get a full review of exactly what's on the test the day before we take it. The teacher's want you to pass. You were smart enough to get selected, you're smart enough to pass.
Just got my BI packet in the mail yesterday!!! Yeeehaaaa!!!! Thank god they didn't forget me! :hustle:
Don't you sweat the test taking, we're all in this together. We won't let you fail. No one failed the last class. If it's anything like the immigration training I went through a few years back we'll get a full review of exactly what's on the test the day before we take it. The teacher's want you to pass. You were smart enough to get selected, you're smart enough to pass.
You are almost completely correct. The only thing that did not happen is the review before the test. We really did not have any type of review session since the class was split into 2 groups for certain blocks of instruction. If your group finishes the day early, you can ask questions for clarification, but can not get a full review since the other half of the class would be missing out. I suggest that you form study groups with your classmates. If you don't like study groups, make some index flash cards. The tests are difficult, but they are not designed to fail someone on purpose. They want everyone to pass the class and become IOIs. Don't worry too much about anything, like I said before...pay attention in class and read the books that they give you. All test material comes from the chapters in the book.
christienyca
07-30-2005, 21:52
3T
Congratulations! I am happy to hear that you completed the training program in GA. How was it? Did you stay in a hotel or in a dorm? What did you have in your room, TV, bathroom? Did you have to share the room with other people? What type of cloths did you wear to class, uniform? Did you fly or drive to GA? How do you like the job so far? Good Luck....
3T
Congratulations! I am happy to hear that you completed the training program in GA. How was it? Did you stay in a hotel or in a dorm? What did you have in your room, TV, bathroom? Did you have to share the room with other people? What type of cloths did you wear to class, uniform? Did you fly or drive to GA? How do you like the job so far? Good Luck....
Thanks Christenyca. The training was..um... ;) no comment... :rolleyes:
No seriously, the training was great, but I do like the job and you will to. In regards to FLETC, I was in a hotel...and I had a TV and a bathroom in the room :o , but I don't know what you mean. I did not share a room...until my wife came to visit me :D . You'll have to wear a uniform for class, but on the weekend you can wear what ever you want...unless you go on base..you will have to dress appropriately. I flew to FLETC, but I recommend driving so that you don't have to depend on anyone to drive you around or waste money on a rental car.
3T
justice07
08-01-2005, 08:29
I returned my BI packet last Thursday with USPS overnight. Did anyone else track their BI packet this way? If so, did you notice if your packet was re-directed to another address?
Biddy1998
08-01-2005, 13:05
I returned my BI packet last Thursday with USPS overnight. Did anyone else track their BI packet this way? If so, did you notice if your packet was re-directed to another address?
Mine was delivered to the address that was included in the packet. However, I returned mine in June. Just an FYI, be patient with the BI process. It took my BI 6 weeks to get in contact with me because DC holds the packet for a while. Good luck to you and congrats.
The tests are difficult, but they are not designed to fail someone on purpose.
Hmmm.. all i see is the word difficult.
;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)
Maybe i should quit while i'm ahead...
What happens if you do fail a test, or several tests? do they let you retake any of them? Ugh.
Hmmm.. all i see is the word difficult.
;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)
Maybe i should quit while i'm ahead...
What happens if you do fail a test, or several tests? do they let you retake any of them? Ugh.
Science, don't worry....your reading too much into the word. They are only difficult in the sense that the material is not obvious to study. For instance, I studied all the defenitions for every test thinking that that is was they were going to get most of the questions from....only about 1 to 5 questions were of defenitions on each test if any. BUT I also read the chapters so that I knew how to apply what I learned. Most questions happened to be of practical information or of information you picked up while reading the chapter. Don't worry, you'll be able to figure out what the information is and you will know it...I did. :D
All of you will do good.
25volksva
08-02-2005, 19:23
Any new progress or word from those who applied under announcement # CK203499CS? Going back to FLETC for the fourth time and hope to touch base with a few of yall in the August class. :argue:
Any new progress or word from those who applied under announcement # CK203499CS? Going back to FLETC for the fourth time and hope to touch base with a few of yall in the August class. :argue:
Are you in the August class?
I returned my BI packet last Thursday with USPS overnight. Did anyone else track their BI packet this way? If so, did you notice if your packet was re-directed to another address?
I sent mine back in May, but I tracked it via USPS priority mail as well. It got re-directed and my heart stopped. They gave us that drop dead date to have it to the DC address. I sent it there, but it wound up somewhere else and I freaked. I called back there and they said it had gotten where it needed to on time and not to worry. I was contaced by my BI soon after, so it got where it needed to be.
Now I'm just waiting for the word on the next (after August) class and I hope I'm in it.
25volksva
08-03-2005, 17:08
Are you in the August class?
1172
No sir! Just going down for an anti-terrorism Train the Trainer class. Just thought I might run into a few of those who might be there in August. As for my IOI status: received the "qualified" letter in April and wanted to see if anyone else had made it to the next step.
Sorry, I wound up editing and deleting your post in trying to respond. No reason for you to go to a range or study firearms unless you want to for personal interest. Being an explosives or firearms expert or explosives professional is not a prerequisite or it would be a requirement. You will get the training you need.
Are you in the August class?
1172 - congrats first of all - second, you would seem to know the answer to my question:
After the completion of my BI - what's the next step in this process?
justice07
08-04-2005, 09:17
I sent mine back in May, but I tracked it via USPS priority mail as well. It got re-directed and my heart stopped. They gave us that drop dead date to have it to the DC address. I sent it there, but it wound up somewhere else and I freaked. I called back there and they said it had gotten where it needed to on time and not to worry. I was contaced by my BI soon after, so it got where it needed to be.
Now I'm just waiting for the word on the next (after August) class and I hope I'm in it.
Interesting...thats exactly what happened to my packet as well. Must be a security measure or something. Thanks for your input Seamus!
1172 - congrats first of all - second, you would seem to know the answer to my question:
After the completion of my BI - what's the next step in this process?
After you send it in the next step would be that you get contacted by your investigator. He/She'll set up a meeting with you, get a whole bunch of other contacts from you, then they'll contact tons of people to check out your character.
After that, it's the long and drawn out wait for "the call" where they offer the job. My wait period was probably 3 or 4 months after the meeting with the BI investigator.
Hope that helps, and good luck.
1172
No sir! Just going down for an anti-terrorism Train the Trainer class. Just thought I might run into a few of those who might be there in August. As for my IOI status: received the "qualified" letter in April and wanted to see if anyone else had made it to the next step.
You're CBP then! Immigration or Customs? I was Immigration until last week. When I got the job offer over the phone I told the lady I was CBP, and she said I was the 6th one that day. Tons of us jumping ship for this new gig.
25volksva
08-04-2005, 20:04
You're CBP then! Immigration or Customs? I was Immigration until last week. When I got the job offer over the phone I told the lady I was CBP, and she said I was the 6th one that day. Tons of us jumping ship for this new gig.
CBP allright! Lots jumping ship even a small port like mine. Ill hopefully be the third to jump and thats out of 60 so officers. To answer your question, Immigration.....
Later, have fun and the best of luck, keep us posted.
In the waiting pattern. Submitted my BI packet this week.
Timeline:
Test: 01/05
Interview: 02/05
Letter and BI Packet: 07/05
No Fed experience. From the various posts on IOI I have seen waiting for BI from a month to several... here I patiently wait. Loads of information and thanks for those who are in class now answering those questions that the FLETC website doesn't cover.
One question for current IOIs. Does the ATF have you use your POV or are there vehicles available? I assume this depends on the field office and a multitude of other budgetary constraints, but do a majority of IOIs use G-vehicles? Thank you for your answers.
df
lukeaustin
08-06-2005, 09:27
A new memo just came out stating that all IOIs requesting a GOV (either a BOV or GSA) will be issued one. We were told that we will either get them in Oct. or Jan. depending on the budget. The new memo also states that the IOI should keep the vehicle at their home. If you are just coming to the office for the entire day, you need to drive your POV but if you are going to be leaving the office or leaving from home to an assignment, you can drive your GOV. The vehicle you get will be determined by your expected mileage driven for the year. If you drive less than 12K per year, you will be issued a GSA vehicle (newer). If you drive more than 15K per year, you are going to get a BOV(probably a surplus). I hope this helps.
One other thing to note is that even the new people (just got back from FLETC) are getting vehicles. Things are changing for the better in this position. ATF is hiring fewer PSA's for this position and I for one am glad. ATF, in my opinion, is the best agency in the government. If I don't get selected for the 1811 slot with ATF within the next 10 years, I will be happy working for ATF as an 1801.
Senior moment here, Luke. What is a PSA?
lukeaustin
08-06-2005, 10:13
Secretary
Thanks Luke, what is a BOV. I am assuming GSA is a General Service Admin vehicle. Just can't figure out the other term.
I am getting excited about this position. Thanks again.
df
lukeaustin
08-06-2005, 18:57
A BOV is a Bureau (ATF) owned vehicle.
christienyca
08-07-2005, 18:04
Good Luck to all of us who are starting our new careers tomorrow!!!! If you guys get a chance, try to post tomorrow and let me know how the first day went...
Biddy1998
08-08-2005, 09:39
Good luck to all that report to their duty locations this morning. Please keep us "liitle people" aware of what it is like on the inside. I am sure I speak for a few of us when I say, hope to see ya soon.
25volksva
08-08-2005, 13:05
Just got the call an hour ago scheduling me for an interview! However, I'm supposed to be at FLETC at 1000 and the interview is for 0900. Trying to change my flight reservations with sato as we speak. Might end up being a very long day! Nothing new. Its gunna work, confidence is KEY!! & good things come to those who wait, especially when dealing with the fed. Best of luck to all. :bounce:
Biddy1998
08-08-2005, 13:42
Just got the call an hour ago scheduling me for an interview! However, I'm supposed to be at FLETC at 1000 and the interview is for 0900. Trying to change my flight reservations with sato as we speak. Might end up being a very long day! Nothing new. Its gunna work, confidence is KEY!! & good things come to those who wait, especially when dealing with the fed. Best of luck to all. :bounce:
Congrats, I have faith that it will work out. Is this an interview for BI, or for the just the initial interview? Just and FYI, if it is for the BI, talk with the investigator about the conflict of time. Mine was really nice and REALLY flexible.
GOOD LUCK
Had my first day today, got my own cubicle. If that doesn't scream business nothing does. It's a satelite office, so there's only 7 IOI's (including the 3 that started today). The guy who's been there the longest only started in 2003, so everything's pretty fledgling. It seems like it's gonna be a good comfortable job.
We're getting sworn in tomorrow.
How was it for the rest of you?
Good Luck to all of us who are starting our new careers tomorrow!!!! If you guys get a chance, try to post tomorrow and let me know how the first day went...
I got sworn in and then started on one large stack of papers. Insurance, Health, life, w-4 and so on. There is an October class and I heard today from my new supervisor that 200 new IOI will be hired in 2006. Good luck to everyone, See ya in Fletc.
Drew
200 new IOIs. That sure is good news for those in the holding pattern. Good luck to all in the process.
Patient and holding
BI pending at this time.
I've been erased.
got yelled at during the swearing in ceremony, and i heard horror stories about fletc.
can i go home now?
;) ;) ;)
lukeaustin
08-09-2005, 08:12
How do you get yelled at during the swearing in ceremony? Were you treating it as a joke?
Horror stories?
Yelled at?
Are your co-workers getting you prematurely excited?
Biddy1998
08-09-2005, 13:11
I got sworn in and then started on one large stack of papers. Insurance, Health, life, w-4 and so on. There is an October class and I heard today from my new supervisor that 200 new IOI will be hired in 2006. Good luck to everyone, See ya in Fletc.
Drew
Guys thank you so much for all the info, it keeps my hopes alive. I got notice from my BI investigator today that he hopes to have it completed today and back to DC by Thursday. :D
For all those already in the game, how long did it take for a job offer after the BI was completed......... any chance of making the October class?
lukeaustin
08-09-2005, 13:23
If your BI is having to turn in your background by Thursday then they are trying to push to get you into the October class. I hope this makes you feel better.
Biddy1998
08-10-2005, 11:09
If your BI is having to turn in your background by Thursday then they are trying to push to get you into the October class. I hope this makes you feel better.
That is exactly what I wanted to hear. I have heard that once you BI is in that they would like to get you on board within the next 60 days. Hopefully I am right with my assumptions.
Just and FYI for all that are going through a BI, mine was really short and was completed in less than a week. My timeline is as follows:
Applied: 11/04
Tested: 1/05
Interviewed: 3/05
BI Packet Recv: 06/05
BI Started: 07/05
BI Completed: 08/05
now anxiously awaiting THE CALL............. :hustle: :hustle:
now anxiously awaiting THE CALL............. :hustle: :hustle:
I hope everything works out for you!
Day #3, and all is well. One of our guys even had to go check out an explosion that left a 45 foot gaping hole across a road when a truck trailer's explosive load blew up. pretty crazy.
Also, the office uniform is polo shirts and khaki pants. Yup, now I know.
Some time ago, I posted that first days were challenging. Homesick, new, more rank structure than perhaps you have experienced. FLETC rocks/sucks is about 50-50. Appreciate 1172 posting from the front lines. I originally posted this for new agents, but a good deal applies to you new IOIs so I dredged it up for your consideration.
http://www.911jobforums.com/vB/showthread.php3?t=32618&highlight=ATF+SAC+TSP
To current IOIs:
I did a search to no avail. How often would the Bureau move you to another office? I expect that this position would incur some type of movement during your career, but what is to be expected, or rather, what is the norm?
Thank you for your responses.
df
lukeaustin
08-12-2005, 07:13
More or less, the answer to your question is almost never. IOIs do not tend to be transferred from office to office unless one of two things occur: You want to move up into management or you volunteer to move when the opportunity presents itself. One of the RAC offices in my Field Division has two cubicles dedicated for IOIs and this area is one of the busiest areas that my FD has to cover. I like the area (about 2.5 hrs from my current spot) and volunteered to move, as did one other employee. For approximately two months, it was supposedly good to go but then it fell through. I guess they are going to start putting new people in this office so they don't have to pay for a move. The recent trend has been to put new people in offices where there is at least one experienced IOI. I know I got off topic a little bit but you do not have to sign a mobility agreement until you get your GS 13. For me personally, I would not mind having a change of scenery once in a while but maybe if I luck out and get the 1811 with ATF I will get to move a few times.
christienyca
08-13-2005, 08:33
I am happy to hear everones first week went well. My first week was great! I went to Philly on my first day to get sworn in and I was out in the field on the tuesday, wednesday and thrusday. Friday I was in the office all day. All the people in my office are great! But I don't have a cubicle, phone or laptop yet. Are you guys planning on driving to FLETC? Did you get your GPS and hat yet?
chamorro77
08-28-2005, 21:56
ATF Industry Operations Investigator interviews are on the way. I just received a call for an interview next week for a GS-9 position. :cool:
Good luck to everyone who applied.
FYI...The latest intel I have is they're planning to have a NOVEMBER class.
That's good news, does anyone else have a BI pending?
BI Submitted 08/05... Waiting.
I may be moving soon and since I submitted my BI packet I am concerned with the proper notification of the ATF. I am going to call my BI contact and follow up with a certified letter regarding my address change. Has anyone had experience with this or have any tips to ensure I don't get lost in the mix?
As always thanks for your responses.
df
Biddy1998
08-30-2005, 23:14
FYI...The latest intel I have is they're planning to have a NOVEMBER class.
Great news about the Nov class. My BI was completed and sent back to HQ on the 19th so now I am just awaiting the call. Good luck to all those in the pipeline.
DWF131 - I would make sure you send a notice to your investigator and to HQ that was you can hit both angles. It probably wouldn't hurt to follow up after the move as well. On a side note my BI took 6 weeks before I heard a single peep after I submitted the paperwork. After I was contacted though it was completed within a week. Good luck to you.
I got sworn in and then started on one large stack of papers. Insurance, Health, life, w-4 and so on. There is an October class and I heard today from my new supervisor that 200 new IOI will be hired in 2006. Good luck to everyone, See ya in Fletc.
Drew
Hi Drew,
Going through the BI this week with an investigator, and everything looks good so far, and he says he should wrap up this week. I've passed a background check with CBP earlier this year so don't see any issues coming up.
Of these 200 openings, any rumor as to whether any of these would be out of the Dublin, CA office ? It'd be great if I could get into the rumored November class ...
Thanks,
Alan
lukeaustin
09-01-2005, 11:00
I would not put any faith in getting the Dublin, CA office. Because ATF's involvement in Alcohol and Tobacco regulatory affairs is non-existent now, that office has little to no work for firearms and explosives. I actually know someone in that office and they were told a few weeks ago to not be surprised if the office (for IO purposes) was closed down in a few more years. The pace in that office is slow with very little to do out in the field. California is not the most firearm-friendly state by any stretch of the imagination and many of the dealers are getting out of the business. Especially with all of the NFA guys doing business in NV and AZ. Best of luck in the process however. If you would like any more information feel free to PM me.
Indiana314
09-07-2005, 14:27
Can anyone give me a heads up as to the type of questions I can expect in my panel interview on Sept. 14 2005?
The panel will be the ATF recruiter, the Director of Industry Operations, and an EEOC person.
Thanks!
Indiana, expect a standard job interview. There will probably be only one or two scenario-type questions....What would you do if?..... Most of it will be questions about YOU. Go to the ATF website and research the ATF mission and what the ATF is all about. Best regards...Hope this helps!
Indiana314
09-12-2005, 15:52
I received a call in August 2005 for the March 2005 announcement and I have an interview on September 14 2005.
Indiana314
09-12-2005, 15:55
Indiana, expect a standard job interview. There will probably be only one or two scenario-type questions....What would you do if?..... Most of it will be questions about YOU. Go to the ATF website and research the ATF mission and what the ATF is all about. Best regards...Hope this helps!
Thanks Paladin.
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