IA Thread, NEW and IMPROVED (25% more obsessing than previous IA threads...)

[darkstar]

here we go again...

[diablo3305]

maybe we should start an IA message board. We seem to fill up alot of threads.

[darkstar]

maybe we should start an IA message board. We seem to fill up alot of threads.

certainly appears to be cause for one...

[GTgrad02]

here we go again...

Now I know when you all are online! Just when we get a good thing going!

[tdstolz]

Just about all of us are in regular contact with our ACs or some other point of contact at the FO. I have read of some people also contacting HR at HQ. I am unaware of how clear the communication is between HQ and FOs. From my own experience, it sounds as if one's AC doesn't know a lot until the FO is contacted about an applicant receiving clearance and getting hired. Is this accurate?

Is it helpful to contact someone in HR at HQ? Would someone like that be a good contact in addition to one's AC? Would they perhaps have more information (e.g., where one is in adjudication)? Then again, considering how close the end of FY 2005 is, I'm sure everyone in HR is swamped.

Any thoughts? Thanks!

[tdstolz]

BuMan said: "For the security clearance portion, sure, those are the guidelines that are used. But it's important to get clear in your mind that there are two separate processes underway here - 1) Is this candidate suitable to receive a minimum of a TS security clearance? and 2) Is this candidate suitable to work for the FBI? The second question is completely separate from the first. There are people who can get security clearances, even at the highest level, from other agencies, who are found to be not suitable for employment by the FBI. It's not just the security clearance."

Thanks--as I said, the learning process continues. I assume, then, that someone in the Security Division determines both of these? Do the criteria for one's suitability to work for the FBI reflect the adjudicative guidelines, or are there different criteria? Or are there even hard-and-fast criteria? Is the second question dependent upon the analysis of an applicant's case, quite apart from meeting the guidelines?

Thanks again.

[BuMan]

BuMan said: "For the security clearance portion, sure, those are the guidelines that are used. But it's important to get clear in your mind that there are two separate processes underway here - 1) Is this candidate suitable to receive a minimum of a TS security clearance? and 2) Is this candidate suitable to work for the FBI? The second question is completely separate from the first. There are people who can get security clearances, even at the highest level, from other agencies, who are found to be not suitable for employment by the FBI. It's not just the security clearance."

Thanks--as I said, the learning process continues. I assume, then, that someone in the Security Division determines both of these? Do the criteria for one's suitability to work for the FBI reflect the adjudicative guidelines, or are there different criteria? Or are there even hard-and-fast criteria? Is the second question dependent upon the analysis of an applicant's case, quite apart from meeting the guidelines?

Thanks again.

The Security Division now does both of these evaluation. The Administrative Services Division, which handles a lot of the hiring process, used to do the suitability for employment assessment and the Security Division did the security clearance evaluation, but the two functions were merged a few months back.

To help understand the difference between the two, keep in mind the FBI Drug Policy as an example. Some agencies may have a different drug policy than the FBI. That's their choice and forms part of their suitability determination. Under the security clearance ajudication guidelines, there are no hard and fast rules for what constitutes unallowable drug use. Someone could exceed the FBI's drug policy, be found unsuitable for employment with the FBI, but receive a security clearance from another agency. The drug use policy reflects one of those major issues that can impact on the credibility of someone who may be called to testify, whether as an agent, analyst, or laboratory examiner. Likewise, under the security clearance guidelines, a non-recent crime could be forgiven. That would completely undermine a criminal investigator or other person in court, however, and result in disqualification. Finally, someone may have been convicted of a midemeanor crime of domestic abuse, which another agency can overlook, but as a gun-toter for the FBI, it becomes a disqualifying factor. For an intel analyst, that wouldn't be a major deal, but for an agent, it's a non-starter.

There are, I believe a series of guidelines for suitability ajudication, but I'm not involved in that area of the FBI and it's hard to say for sure what they are. From what I understand, the suitabilty ajudication is based upon the complete picture developed during the background investigation. It is conceivable that if someone has a lot of little issues that, by themselves, don't rise to the level of disqualification, the ajudication process could determine that the combination of factors is too much risk to accept and the candidate is dropped.

[diablo3305]

Has anyone in the BI process found that the FBI has not interviewed someone they thought they would. For example, I spoke to my neighbor today who I haven't talked to in awhile. He has known me for my entire life and lives to the left of our house. I asked him about his visit from the FBI and he said no one from the FBI ever visited him. I know the day the investigator was in my neighborhood, it was back in April. Perhaps he went to his house and he wasn't there, but I would have thought for sure they would try to get in touch with him, since really only him and one other neighbor know me. I don't know anyone else I live near. I know they spoke to my other neighbor, so it makes me wonder, "who else did they talk to" If only 2 people on the street actually know me, and they only spoke to one that I am aware of, who else did they talk to.

Another example is one of my previous supervisors. I emailed him a few weeks back and he told me no one from the FBI contacted him at all. He would be the best one to talk to from that job, and probably the only one who knew me at all enough to answer questions.

I have been in BI for about 4.5 months and my interviews were conducted in the first week (I was contacted by a number of people saying they heard from the FBI, but not everyone that would be contacted informed me, so I don't know everyone they spoke to)

I guess what concerns me, is if my BI is giving a fair representation of me. I would trust that it is, but certain people I would have thought for sure would have been contacted have no been.

Oh well, maybe im just worrying too much, this is all very big to me and I am eager to get started and start my professional life. I just thought it was odd talking to my neighbor today. I felt like a fool asking him how his meeting with the FBI went. I was going to thank him for speaking to them since I was unable to give him notice. Turns out he was never interviewed.

[tdstolz]

The Security Division now does both of these evaluation. The Administrative Services Division, which handles a lot of the hiring process, used to do the suitability for employment assessment and the Security Division did the security clearance evaluation, but the two functions were merged a few months back.

To help understand the difference between the two, keep in mind the FBI Drug Policy as an example. Some agencies may have a different drug policy than the FBI. That's their choice and forms part of their suitability determination. Under the security clearance ajudication guidelines, there are no hard and fast rules for what constitutes unallowable drug use. Someone could exceed the FBI's drug policy, be found unsuitable for employment with the FBI, but receive a security clearance from another agency. The drug use policy reflects one of those major issues that can impact on the credibility of someone who may be called to testify, whether as an agent, analyst, or laboratory examiner. Likewise, under the security clearance guidelines, a non-recent crime could be forgiven. That would completely undermine a criminal investigator or other person in court, however, and result in disqualification. Finally, someone may have been convicted of a midemeanor crime of domestic abuse, which another agency can overlook, but as a gun-toter for the FBI, it becomes a disqualifying factor. For an intel analyst, that wouldn't be a major deal, but for an agent, it's a non-starter.

There are, I believe a series of guidelines for suitability ajudication, but I'm not involved in that area of the FBI and it's hard to say for sure what they are. From what I understand, the suitabilty ajudication is based upon the complete picture developed during the background investigation. It is conceivable that if someone has a lot of little issues that, by themselves, don't rise to the level of disqualification, the ajudication process could determine that the combination of factors is too much risk to accept and the candidate is dropped.

Thanks again, BuMan! Is it safe to say, then, that it's not so much what a person does not do, but also what a person does do? E.g., it's not enough simply to have never done drugs or committed a misdemeanor, but also not to have lots of associations with those who have. One could be a straight arrow as far as meeting the adjudicative guidelines go, but still not be someone with whom anyone in the FBI would want to work (someone who just "phones it in," as you said). So it's not just avoiding negative things, but also demonstrating positive ones, correct? Fidelity, bravery, and integrity, after all.

Thanks again--have a great weekend, everyone!

[achefswife]

Ok you guys/girls.... Friday I got a letter, yes a thin envelope was in my mailbox from the FBI. Luckily it was just a letter requesting my older brother's date of birth (I know it was on the form correctly, but I will not question why I was sent a letter requesting it). Seems like to me they could have just saved the paper and phoned my for this information, but I'm not in the chain of command so what does my opinion matter. At least I know someone is looking at my file or doing some type of work with it.

[OhioLaw]

Ok you guys/girls.... Friday I got a letter, yes a thin envelope was in my mailbox from the FBI. Luckily it was just a letter requesting my older brother's date of birth (I know it was on the form correctly, but I will not question why I was sent a letter requesting it). Seems like to me they could have just saved the paper and phoned my for this information, but I'm not in the chain of command so what does my opinion matter. At least I know someone is looking at my file or doing some type of work with it.
I wonder how much consideration is given to siblings "bad deeds" for lack of a better phrase. I hope not much bc my brother was a trouble maker in his juvenile days :eek:

[darkstar]

I wonder how much consideration is given to siblings "bad deeds" for lack of a better phrase. I hope not much bc my brother was a trouble maker in his juvenile days :eek:

i have the same misgivings about the exploits of 2 of my brothers during their periods of "capricious youth." Both have settled down and developed into a good citizens, more or less, but it's still something i worry about... 1 of many things, actually....

[bad_timing]

i have the same misgivings about the exploits of 2 of my brothers during their periods of "capricious youth." Both have settled down and developed into a good citizens, more or less, but it's still something i worry about... 1 of many things, actually....


I don't think that the FBI is going to hold the actions of other people over your head because that's obviously out of your control. If anything, it would demonstrate the strength of your character for not following the same path.

Just my $.02

[anwalt]

Looks like the Bureau is getting more heat:

<http://www.nytimes.com/2005/08/15/politics/15justice.html?hp&ex=1124164800&en=6b619f1e97c83066&ei=5094&partner=homepage>

[electra1978]

...For the Intelligence Analyst Assistant position at my FO (mind you, it was at the GS-5 through 7 level so maybe I was overqualified).

I was hoping to have that as an option to fall back on in case things fall through with the IA position.....

Oh well... At least that shows that they are updating QuickHire regularly now..

[bad_timing]

Looks like the Bureau is getting more heat:

<http://www.nytimes.com/2005/08/15/politics/15justice.html?hp&ex=1124164800&en=6b619f1e97c83066&ei=5094&partner=homepage>

More heat is right.

All they need to do is just call us. Maybe I can send the address to this forum to Director Mueller and EAD Baginski. WE ARE READY!!! :D

[electra1978]

Looks like the Bureau is getting more heat:

<http://www.nytimes.com/2005/08/15/politics/15justice.html?hp&ex=1124164800&en=6b619f1e97c83066&ei=5094&partner=homepage>

Thanks anwalt for the heads up...

Anybody have any more info on the "new personnel moves announced just last week as part of a major restructuring"?

[tdstolz]

Thanks anwalt for the heads up...

Anybody have any more info on the "new personnel moves announced just last week as part of a major restructuring"?

I wondered about this, too. Someone recently said that the flood gates could open very soon as far as EODs go, something about how usually people come on board at the beginning of a pay period, but that since FY 2005 is almost finished people will come on every week. Let's hope!

[diablo3305]

I wondered about this, too. Someone recently said that the flood gates could open very soon as far as EODs go, something about how usually people come on board at the beginning of a pay period, but that since FY 2005 is almost finished people will come on every week. Let's hope!


I'm ready for the flood. Summers almost over, perfect time to start a new job :)

[OhioLaw]

http://www.usdoj.gov/oig/reports/FBI/a0520/final.pdf

Page 161 of 190 has an interesting chart that deals with the time from the CO to the time of EOD. 41% of the IAs were on within 3 months of getting the CO. That seems fast compared to the stories we get on this forum

[forms]

[QUOTE=tdstolz]BuMan said: ...There are people who can get security clearances, even at the highest level, from other agencies, who are found to be not suitable for employment by the FBI..."

So which agency has the most rigorous standards for granting employment?

[diablo3305]

http://www.usdoj.gov/oig/reports/FBI/a0520/final.pdf

Page 161 of 190 has an interesting chart that deals with the time from the CO to the time of EOD. 41% of the IAs were on within 3 months of getting the CO. That seems fast compared to the stories we get on this forum


I'm at a little over 5 months since my CO. Perhaps 6 months will be my time :) I see a high percentage in that category.

[forms]

Has anyone in the BI process found that the FBI has not interviewed someone they thought they would.

Yes, my BIer (background investigater), talked to neighbors and coworkers and asked: "Is there anyone else who might know xyz about the candidate?"

Only about half the people on my list were contacted. I suppose they guess you are only going to put down nice references.

[electra1978]

I'm ready for the flood. Summers almost over, perfect time to start a new job :)

Amen to that!

I've been working on a contract basis which was supposed to be up this month. They know I've been applying with the FBI and I told them I could be looking at another 6 months of waiting. They just told me they want to extend my contract for about that long which would be great so I don't have to switch to another job.

[bad_timing]

[QUOTE=tdstolz]BuMan said: ...There are people who can get security clearances, even at the highest level, from other agencies, who are found to be not suitable for employment by the FBI..."

So which agency has the most rigorous standards for granting employment?

I would throw my money on CIA.

[diablo3305]

Amen to that!

I've been working on a contract basis which was supposed to be up this month. They know I've been applying with the FBI and I told them I could be looking at another 6 months of waiting. They just told me they want to extend my contract for about that long which would be great so I don't have to switch to another job.


Same here, im on a contract basis. My health insurance just ran out I think because I turned 24 at the end of july, so I will have to figure something out for that soon. My contract here just got extended until the end of october, but hopefully I won't need to stay that long. They know im leaving here, and they don't mind. I'm one of the best IT techs they have here so they keep me around as long as they can. I must say I couldn't have a better job during this process (even though I hate it). They are extremely flexible and very cool with me leaving for a federal job.

[electra1978]

I would throw my money on CIA.

That's interesting because I was going to say the NSA...

[OrangeAlum2003]

That's interesting because I was going to say the NSA...

I would agree, though I haven't worked for either. The NSA seems much more secretive and selective than the CIA. I met a bunch of guys from the NSA in one of the training classes I was assisting at the Foreign Service Institute. No offense to anyone on the board, but those were some strange dudes. All of the folks I've met at the CIA so far have been fairly "normal."

[tdstolz]

http://www.usdoj.gov/oig/reports/FBI/a0520/final.pdf

Page 161 of 190 has an interesting chart that deals with the time from the CO to the time of EOD. 41% of the IAs were on within 3 months of getting the CO. That seems fast compared to the stories we get on this forum

That does seem fast. Three to four months seem to be the magic numbers, yes? I'm at four months as of today. I'm not complaining--in fact, I'm rather optimistic!

[electra1978]

Same here, im on a contract basis. My health insurance just ran out I think because I turned 24 at the end of july, so I will have to figure something out for that soon. My contract here just got extended until the end of october, but hopefully I won't need to stay that long. They know im leaving here, and they don't mind. I'm one of the best IT techs they have here so they keep me around as long as they can. I must say I couldn't have a better job during this process (even though I hate it). They are extremely flexible and very cool with me leaving for a federal job.

No kidding. I'm in exactly the same boat. I won't have health insurance as of Sept. 1, and so I told my boss that I will have to leave if they can't figure something out for me. My job is pretty easy and as such, I wouldn't mind staying even though I find the work boring and unmotivating.... of course stay until the FBI calls to tell me "You're Hired!"

[OhioLaw]

That does seem fast. Three to four months seem to be the magic numbers, yes? I'm at four months as of today. I'm not complaining--in fact, I'm rather optimistic!
I bet you will be getting the EOD anytime now. I wouldn't care if mine took six months. I would just like to know ahead of time that it is going to take six months. That way I don't sit around thinking about it like I do every ten minutes.

[diablo3305]

I bet you will be getting the EOD anytime now. I wouldn't care if mine took six months. I would just like to know ahead of time that it is going to take six months. That way I don't sit around thinking about it like I do every ten minutes.


prepare to sit around and think about it every ten minutes then
:)

you won't know how long it will take until it ends

I find myself checking my phone often these days. With the new semester coming up in 2 weeks, im hoping something happens soonn...real soon, otherwise i have to start classes.

[bad_timing]

I bet you will be getting the EOD anytime now. I wouldn't care if mine took six months. I would just like to know ahead of time that it is going to take six months. That way I don't sit around thinking about it like I do every ten minutes.

...every 10 minutes?! How about every 10 seconds!!! LOL

Hopefully we will all be able to post some success stories sooner, rather than later. I'm still going to ride the 1, October wave. Even if it's too soon.

[electra1978]

I bet you will be getting the EOD anytime now. I wouldn't care if mine took six months. I would just like to know ahead of time that it is going to take six months. That way I don't sit around thinking about it like I do every ten minutes.

:eek: Only every 10 minutes??? :) I've been having a bad day at work so far so I've been thinking getting the call from HQ with a CO every 2.25 minutes.

[OhioLaw]

...every 10 minutes?! How about every 10 seconds!!! LOL

Hopefully we will all be able to post some success stories sooner, rather than later. I'm still going to ride the 1, October wave. Even if it's too soon.
Glad to hear I am not alone. I lied about the 10 minutes to make myself not sound like too much of a freak. 10 seconds sounds more like it :D

Electra,
I too am having a bad day at work. All the people here are being grouchy. It must be the weather. I am grouchy too bc we found a little cat the other day and took it in as a pet. Now all it wants to do is meow at my head while I try to sleep. It is so cute, but is driving me nuts with the meowing.

[bad_timing]

http://www.usdoj.gov/oig/reports/FBI/a0520/final.pdf

Page 161 of 190 has an interesting chart that deals with the time from the CO to the time of EOD. 41% of the IAs were on within 3 months of getting the CO. That seems fast compared to the stories we get on this forum

The numbers for one month seemed a little extreme but I'm not complaining. Either way, it looks promising.

[bad_timing]

Glad to hear I am not alone. I lied about the 10 minutes to make myself not sound like too much of a freak. 10 seconds sounds more like it :D

Electra,
I too am having a bad day at work. All the people here are being grouchy. It must be the weather. I am grouchy too bc we found a little cat the other day and took it in as a pet. Now all it wants to do is meow at my head while I try to sleep. It is so cute, but is driving me nuts with the meowing.

Bad day, you say? How about everyday that I have to punch the clock.

Ohio-
You are far from a "freak." The wall paper on my work computer is the FBI CT logo. It's actually a pretty cool logo. Hopefully, one day that logo will represent where I hang my hat in the FBI. See, there I go dreaming again ;)

[OhioLaw]

Assuming that you all get EODs, how much notice do you plan on giving your current employer that you will be leaving? With all the uncertainty that has gone on, I am a little bit afraid of getting a EOD and then it being withdrawn or postponed.

[diablo3305]

Assuming that you all get EODs, how much notice do you plan on giving your current employer that you will be leaving?


5 minutes.

I'll be walking out the door while im on the phone with them.


j/k... as much as I can, they understand, so I will start as soon as possible and let them know as soon as I can.

[electra1978]

Assuming that you all get EODs, how much notice do you plan on giving your current employer that you will be leaving? With all the uncertainty that has gone on, I am a little bit afraid of getting a EOD and then it being withdrawn or postponed.

It definitely helped to go through this process and inform my boss pretty much every step of the way. He knows that if things work out with the FBI I will be gone as soon as I have something in writing, and I'm given word to head out. Of course, I will be professional and try to give them as much notice as possible so I don't leave them high and dry...

[waitingindc]

I would agree, though I haven't worked for either. The NSA seems much more secretive and selective than the CIA. I met a bunch of guys from the NSA in one of the training classes I was assisting at the Foreign Service Institute. No offense to anyone on the board, but those were some strange dudes. All of the folks I've met at the CIA so far have been fairly "normal."
I have been through the process at both CIA and NSA. I put my money on CIA every time. The NSA outsources their security stuff to DSS, CIA does it in house, so they play by their own rules.

If I had to put my money on anything, I would say either DOE, at the Q level, or perhaps some parts of DOD, like DTRA, where they get poly'd every six months. Granted I am talking about levels higher that TS/SCI...

[diablo3305]

Yes, my BIer (background investigater), talked to neighbors and coworkers and asked: "Is there anyone else who might know xyz about the candidate?"

Only about half the people on my list were contacted. I suppose they guess you are only going to put down nice references.


Yea, im just confused because I would have expected them to talk to all of my previous employers, but one wasn't interviewed. Odd to me. Oh well, the wait continues.

[bad_timing]

Assuming that you all get EODs, how much notice do you plan on giving your current employer that you will be leaving? With all the uncertainty that has gone on, I am a little bit afraid of getting a EOD and then it being withdrawn or postponed.

My current employer is my biggest supporter (aside from my mom of course :D ).

[Kristin]

...For the Intelligence Analyst Assistant position at my FO (mind you, it was at the GS-5 through 7 level so maybe I was overqualified).

I was hoping to have that as an option to fall back on in case things fall through with the IA position.....

Oh well... At least that shows that they are updating QuickHire regularly now..

You probably were overqualified. I applied for a clerical position and got the same message. I was like whaaaaaaaaat? How could I not be among the highest qualified for a clerical position? The HR specialist told me that I was well-qualified but not best qualified because I didn't live in the state in which the job vacancy was open and also I was overqualified.

[GTgrad02]

Thanks anwalt for the heads up...

Anybody have any more info on the "new personnel moves announced just last week as part of a major restructuring"?

There go those !@#$ Democrats... making the country's security their top concern! There's a reason why they're clinging on to every last straw of power... it's all they have b/c the people have their number! Hey, we sure can't get any bills through, butlets hold up the nominations of key crime fighters and justices so we have SOME political maneuvering room...
Just a rant... mainly at those inside the beltway. Not to offend people's political [in]sensitivities...

[anwalt]

There go those !@#$ Democrats... making the country's security their top concern! There's a reason why they're clinging on to every last straw of power... it's all they have b/c the people have their number! Hey, we sure can't get any bills through, butlets hold up the nominations of key crime fighters and justices so we have SOME political maneuvering room...
Just a rant... mainly at those inside the beltway. Not to offend people's political [in]sensitivities...

Settle down, Ms. Coulter.

[diablo3305]

Settle down, Ms. Coulter.


:D HAHAHA nice

[achefswife]

Talked to the HR contact at my FO office today to make sure she got my message about my brother's DOB (not really worried about him; he's a US Air Marshall with a clearance already).. of course she did not get the message I left on her voicemail so she took that along with some additional information requested by HQ. At least I know that my file is being worked on to some extent. And yes I am too ready for the flood gates to open.

[tdstolz]

I bet you will be getting the EOD anytime now. I wouldn't care if mine took six months. I would just like to know ahead of time that it is going to take six months. That way I don't sit around thinking about it like I do every ten minutes.

Well, I certainly hope you are right! I do want the roller coaster to stop any time now...

[BuMan]

Personnel Moves: The head of the National Security Service (overarching organization over the Directorate of Intelligence and the CT/CI branch) was named - current EAD-CT/CI Gary Bald. EAD-I Baginski is retiring from government service and will be serving as a consultant for the FBI and the current EAD-CT/CI and EAD-I positions will be combined in to the EAD-National Security. So far, that's all I've heard.

Most Stringent Standards: Hard to say. I've seen personnel from CIA and DOE get bounced when applying for an FBI job for one reason or another. Don't know of NSA folks who have gotten bounced, but they would be going somewhere other than my office, so who knows. I do know that DOE routinely accepts an FBI background/poly without further steps required for issuing a Q Clearance, so it apparently meets or exceeds their standards.

[Kristin]

Talked to the HR contact at my FO office today to make sure she got my message about my brother's DOB (not really worried about him; he's a US Air Marshall with a clearance already).. of course she did not get the message I left on her voicemail so she took that along with some additional information requested by HQ. At least I know that my file is being worked on to some extent. And yes I am too ready for the flood gates to open.

The personnel director at the B'ham office is so sweet. She has been so helpful to me throughout this whole process. She has even encouraged me a time or two.

By the way. I live in Gadsden, AL. Only 45 minutes from where you live (B'ham).

[ricki223]

The personnel director at the B'ham office is so sweet. She has been so helpful to me throughout this whole process. She has even encouraged me a time or two.

By the way. I live in Gadsden, AL. Only 45 minutes from where you live (B'ham).

Do you know what the personell director's name is. I talked to someone in the B'ham office in staffing but I don't think it was her. I'm glad to see how positive you are about your current status. Hopefully you'll get on sooner than later. I hope I can also. I just moved to MS from Auburn while I'm still searching for another job. Never been to Gadsden but I've got a good friend I met in grad school at Auburn from there.

[bad_timing]

Has anyone in here applied to other agencies in the Fed? Furthermore, is anyone in the pipeline for any other agencies?

[diablo3305]

Has anyone in here applied to other agencies in the Fed? Furthermore, is anyone in the pipeline for any other agencies?


yea, i applied to a few others. I am in the BI process for another agency which may give me an offer before the FBI depending on how much longer my FBI BI takes

[OhioLaw]

Darkstar and TopJag,
Have any of you heard anything yet?

[bad_timing]

yea, i applied to a few others. I am in the BI process for another agency which may give me an offer before the FBI depending on how much longer my FBI BI takes

I just wanted to make sure I'm not alone in that regard.

Did they (FBI) tell you if it would be problematic that you are currently in BI for another agency? I know for a fact the FBI looks into that kind of thing.

[atxtallguy]

Has anyone in here applied to other agencies in the Fed? Furthermore, is anyone in the pipeline for any other agencies?


I think I applied with almost all Federal Jobs that have Intel Analyst slots (ATF, DoD (Army and Navy), NSA, CIA and NGIA). I pretty much gave up on getting back into the intel game since I was getting reject letters or no feedback. I figured I'd continue doing what I do and move on to other things. Then the FBI stuff started to take off and you guys know the rest of the story.................

[systemsguy05]

Anyone who interviewed in July still not receive a call yet?? I can only imagine how busy they are with everything, so I don't want to call and be a pest, but at the same time, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't getting a bit anxious, and knowing something either way about how the interview went (either to expect a CO, or sorry, please play again) would go a long way in easing the nerves. I'm sure there are others in the same boat.

[TopJag]

Darkstar and TopJag,
Have any of you heard anything yet?

Hi OhioLaw,

I sent an e-mail last week to the HR and they called me back immediately. I told the gentlemen I was confused by the Quickhire listing me "Best Qualified" for GS 9 thru 14, yet no further processing. He said he understood the problems and conflicts with the Quickhire listing. Anyway, he told me the FO-2005-0022 listing was closed. He asked if I had been interviewed and I said no. He said sorry to hear that but I still may be selected in 2006 (which means to me I was not selected under this listing). He seemed to imply if you have been interviewed, your still in the running. However, in my situation, I received no interview, yet "Best Qualified" even for GS-14? I'm crying over spilled milk, but I have nearly 9 years of IA experience, a law degree, high GPAs and a current TS/SCI clearance and didn't even get an interview? Maybe this was not meant to be. Good luck to you and everybody.

TopJag

[OhioLaw]

Anyone who interviewed in July still not receive a call yet?? I can only imagine how busy they are with everything, so I don't want to call and be a pest, but at the same time, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't getting a bit anxious, and knowing something either way about how the interview went (either to expect a CO, or sorry, please play again) would go a long way in easing the nerves. I'm sure there are others in the same boat.
The HR lady that I spoke to said they would try to have all the COs out by Aug. 17, which is tomorrow. She also expressed a "like we could ever do anything that fast" tone, so you might still be in the running.

[OhioLaw]

Hi OhioLaw,

I sent an e-mail last week to the HR and they called me back immediately. I told the gentlemen I was confused by the Quickhire listing me "Best Qualified" for GS 9 thru 14, yet no further processing. He said he understood the problems and conflicts with the Quickhire listing. Anyway, he told me the FO-2005-0022 listing was closed. He asked if I had been interviewed and I said no. He said sorry to hear that but I still may be selected in 2006 (which means to me I was not selected under this listing). He seemed to imply if you have been interviewed, your still in the running. However, in my situation, I received no interview, yet "Best Qualified" even for GS-14? I'm crying over spilled milk, but I have nearly 9 years of IA experience, a law degree, high GPAs and a current TS/SCI clearance and didn't even get an interview? Maybe this was not meant to be. Good luck to you and everybody.

TopJag
Well I am sorry to hear that. I can't believe it to be honest. They seemed to be really impressed that I had a law degree. In your case, you have the degree plus IA experience. Maybe it is just a budget issue, where they can't afford you?

[diablo3305]

I just wanted to make sure I'm not alone in that regard.

Did they (FBI) tell you if it would be problematic that you are currently in BI for another agency? I know for a fact the FBI looks into that kind of thing.


No, they didn't. I wondered if there would be any issue. My BI for DEA began about a month ago I believe. I know they are doing something, however they have not to my knowledge began interviewing others yet. So far I haven't heard of any problems.

[electra1978]

Anyone who interviewed in July still not receive a call yet?? I can only imagine how busy they are with everything, so I don't want to call and be a pest, but at the same time, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't getting a bit anxious, and knowing something either way about how the interview went (either to expect a CO, or sorry, please play again) would go a long way in easing the nerves. I'm sure there are others in the same boat.

Hey there. I still haven't heard from HQ after being told that I should be hearing from them very soon. My feeling is that they are backlogged and may not be able to meet the Aug. 17 deadline.

Have you tried emailing HQ? If you do, make sure to say that you have already been interviewed so they know where you are in the process.

[electra1978]

Hi OhioLaw,

I sent an e-mail last week to the HR and they called me back immediately. I told the gentlemen I was confused by the Quickhire listing me "Best Qualified" for GS 9 thru 14, yet no further processing. He said he understood the problems and conflicts with the Quickhire listing. Anyway, he told me the FO-2005-0022 listing was closed. He asked if I had been interviewed and I said no. He said sorry to hear that but I still may be selected in 2006 (which means to me I was not selected under this listing). He seemed to imply if you have been interviewed, your still in the running. However, in my situation, I received no interview, yet "Best Qualified" even for GS-14? I'm crying over spilled milk, but I have nearly 9 years of IA experience, a law degree, high GPAs and a current TS/SCI clearance and didn't even get an interview? Maybe this was not meant to be. Good luck to you and everybody.

TopJag

I'm really to hear that TopJag, and you're right. It doesn't make sense given your skills and years of experience. Frankly there are a lot of things that haven't made sense in this process, but I figure there must be method to the madness somewhere.

I hope you will apply to the 2006 announcement because the FBI definitely needs people like you. Have you applied to any other agency?

[bad_timing]

Hi OhioLaw,

I sent an e-mail last week to the HR and they called me back immediately. I told the gentlemen I was confused by the Quickhire listing me "Best Qualified" for GS 9 thru 14, yet no further processing. He said he understood the problems and conflicts with the Quickhire listing. Anyway, he told me the FO-2005-0022 listing was closed. He asked if I had been interviewed and I said no. He said sorry to hear that but I still may be selected in 2006 (which means to me I was not selected under this listing). He seemed to imply if you have been interviewed, your still in the running. However, in my situation, I received no interview, yet "Best Qualified" even for GS-14? I'm crying over spilled milk, but I have nearly 9 years of IA experience, a law degree, high GPAs and a current TS/SCI clearance and didn't even get an interview? Maybe this was not meant to be. Good luck to you and everybody.

TopJag

With those kind of creds, I'm surprised that they haven't contacted you to be the new EAD-I :D

Again, we are left scratching our heads.

[diablo3305]

With those kind of creds, I'm surprised that they haven't contacted you to be the new EAD-I :D

Again, we are left scratching our heads.


I think its just a function of the number of applicants vs. openings for the grade. I bet that the number of openings for a 14 are much lower than that of a 7. He is certainly very qualified, but given the shear number of applicants, its only reasonable to assume hes not the only one with those kinds of qualifications. I remember hearing at my interview that about 57,000 people applied last year, and there were only 800 or so openings. Thats alot of applicants to sort through. Some I'm sure are highly qualified yet they were passed over due to the overwhelming number of them.

I think in time he will be called, but the process seems to be constantly evolving. I'm sure the FBI is just completely overwhelmed with the IA hiring for now and in the future it will become more structured and settle down a bit.

[electra1978]

I just wanted to make sure I'm not alone in that regard.

Did they (FBI) tell you if it would be problematic that you are currently in BI for another agency? I know for a fact the FBI looks into that kind of thing.

I was considering applying for a couple other agencies. Why would being in the BI stage at another agency pose a problem?

[OhioLaw]

I think its just a function of the number of applicants vs. openings for the grade. I bet that the number of openings for a 14 are much lower than that of a 7. He is certainly very qualified, but given the shear number of applicants, its only reasonable to assume hes not the only one with those kinds of qualifications. I remember hearing at my interview that about 57,000 people applied last year, and there were only 800 or so openings. Thats alot of applicants to sort through. Some I'm sure are highly qualified yet they were passed over due to the overwhelming number of them.

I think in time he will be called, but the process seems to be constantly evolving. I'm sure the FBI is just completely overwhelmed with the IA hiring for now and in the future it will become more structured and settle down a bit.
I don't think that 57,000 people applied. I think they might have had that many applications. I remember last year it was broken down by field office, where you could apply to the specific ones. I applied to 6 field offices at 3 grade levels each. So, I alone accounted for 18 applications.

[diablo3305]

I don't think that 57,000 people applied. I think they might have had that many applications. I remember last year it was broken down by field office, where you could apply to the specific ones. I applied to 6 field offices at 3 grade levels each. So, I alone accounted for 18 applications.


Yes, but I would imagine each of those applications is treated seperatly. I received a call in Feb from HQ and the person I spoke to was unaware of my other applications for other vacancies. Thats still a lot of applications to sort through.

[systemsguy05]

I don't think that 57,000 people applied. I think they might have had that many applications. I remember last year it was broken down by field office, where you could apply to the specific ones. I applied to 6 field offices at 3 grade levels each. So, I alone accounted for 18 applications.

I applied to probably about 30 or so field offices under that group of announcements...maybe 35!! Needless to say I wasn't very picky about where I went (I'm still not, fortunately I don't have to be, and I feel for everyone who really would be making a big sacrifice in that regard to take this position). I only applied to GS-7, but I was at least 30 applications under that logic. By re-posting the announcement this way, they whittled me down to being just "one application". In hindsight, makes sense why they did that, though the cancellation of the old announcements was frustrating at the time...

[TopJag]

I know, like someone said, there are fewer slots at the GS-13/14 band. But that is why I applied for 9-14. Maybe I applied to too many grades. I've got other irons in the fire with other agencies, but I really thought the FBI IA position was perfect, given my background and experience. Again, good luck to all in pursuit of your goals.

TopJag

[atxtallguy]

I know, like someone said, there are fewer slots at the GS-13/14 band. But that is why I applied for 9-14. Maybe I applied to too many grades. I've got other irons in the fire with other agencies, but I really thought the FBI IA position was perfect, given my background and experience. Again, good luck to all in pursuit of your goals.

TopJag

I think the only reason why you weren't "picked" up is something you answered on the quickhire system. Some form or fashion it did not match up with what they are looking for (for example: willing to locate, etc.). You have more experience and education than I do, so it is odd you are not in the "pool" of candidates.

I asked you a few weeks ago, but you never responded so I'll try again. What branch of service were you an IA?

Good luck with your endeavors and keep trying, don't give up!

[Balapai]

I have been following this thread for awhile now and I find all of the information both interesting and helpful- so thank you to everyone for sharing their particular stories. I applied in April - interviewed and received a CO (verbal) in late May and that is the last that I heard from the FBI. I have a PhD in Sociology, lots of international experience and no intelligence experience. I don't know who my AC is (i am in the DC area), so I am inclined to just sit back and wait... my dilemma is this. we just found out that my husband is being deployed to Iraq- I have a 20 month old son and the logistics of the next few weeks would be made much easier if I knew whether I had a job or not... any ideas about how I can find an AC...and if I do, do you think there is a chance I could get some details about timeline??? :)

[electra1978]

I have been following this thread for awhile now and I find all of the information both interesting and helpful- so thank you to everyone for sharing their particular stories. I applied in April - interviewed and received a CO (verbal) in late May and that is the last that I heard from the FBI. I have a PhD in Sociology, lots of international experience and no intelligence experience. I don't know who my AC is (i am in the DC area), so I am inclined to just sit back and wait... my dilemma is this. we just found out that my husband is being deployed to Iraq- I have a 20 month old son and the logistics of the next few weeks would be made much easier if I knew whether I had a job or not... any ideas about how I can find an AC...and if I do, do you think there is a chance I could get some details about timeline??? :)

Wow. That is tough Balapai. I really feel for you. I wonder if you could call HQ and talk to someone in the applicant processing department or the staffing unit. I'm sure if they knew about your situation they would be as helpful as possible...

[diablo3305]

I have been following this thread for awhile now and I find all of the information both interesting and helpful- so thank you to everyone for sharing their particular stories. I applied in April - interviewed and received a CO (verbal) in late May and that is the last that I heard from the FBI. I have a PhD in Sociology, lots of international experience and no intelligence experience. I don't know who my AC is (i am in the DC area), so I am inclined to just sit back and wait... my dilemma is this. we just found out that my husband is being deployed to Iraq- I have a 20 month old son and the logistics of the next few weeks would be made much easier if I knew whether I had a job or not... any ideas about how I can find an AC...and if I do, do you think there is a chance I could get some details about timeline??? :)


You might try contacting an HR specialist at your local field office. Do you have the number of the person who gave you your CO. Given the length of the process, I would say that you most likely have a bit of a way to go, since you only received a conditional offer back in late May. My AC is listed on my written CO, yet the contact number I have is for the HR specialist handling my application. You could probably find out who to talk to by contacting your local field office, but I doubt you will get any kind of definitive information. You still have to complete the BI and PSI and polygraph.

I notice that you haven't heard from them since late May. You were never contacted to come in for processing? I know the BI can start before your polygraph because mine did, but I heard from them to schedule within 3 weeks of my CO. In any event, the best bet is to call or email about your situation and find out who you can talk to.

[JulieAnn1270]

I got THE CALL today, on my cell phone. Was approved for hire in Quantico, VA, and will be starting 9/6. For those of you curious about timeline who haven't see my prior posts, here it is:

Aug 2004 - Applied to posting
Dec 2004 - Interview
Mar 2005 - CO
May 2005 - PPP
Aug 2005 - Final Approval for Hire!

Keep in mind, I already had a TS/SCI and my hiring group asked for my BI to be Fast-tracked, which I was told cut the timeframe considerably from 8-9 months to 3-4 instead. One thing I was submitted for several times but did not receive was the hiring bonus. I have yet to hear about anybody who has received that. However, I am more than happy to accept the job without it - I will continue to post any information that may be helpful and also about the first days as they progress. They told me I would have to go to HQ for 3 days initially, then report to my normal office on the fourth day. Good luck again to all of you, and keep trying - it will come through eventually!

[electra1978]

I got THE CALL today, on my cell phone. Was approved for hire in Quantico, VA, and will be starting 9/6. For those of you curious about timeline who haven't see my prior posts, here it is:

Aug 2004 - Applied to posting
Dec 2004 - Interview
Mar 2005 - CO
May 2005 - PPP
Aug 2005 - Final Approval for Hire!

Keep in mind, I already had a TS/SCI and my hiring group asked for my BI to be Fast-tracked, which I was told cut the timeframe considerably from 8-9 months to 3-4 instead. One thing I was submitted for several times but did not receive was the hiring bonus. I have yet to hear about anybody who has received that. However, I am more than happy to accept the job without it - I will continue to post any information that may be helpful and also about the first days as they progress. They told me I would have to go to HQ for 3 days initially, then report to my normal office on the fourth day. Good luck again to all of you, and keep trying - it will come through eventually!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!! WOW!!! You must be so psyched!!! You have been waiting a LONG time for this and I'm glad to see people are seeing results!! Do keep in touch and let us know what you first day of school is like. :D

[bad_timing]

I got THE CALL today, on my cell phone. Was approved for hire in Quantico, VA, and will be starting 9/6. For those of you curious about timeline who haven't see my prior posts, here it is:

Aug 2004 - Applied to posting
Dec 2004 - Interview
Mar 2005 - CO
May 2005 - PPP
Aug 2005 - Final Approval for Hire!

Keep in mind, I already had a TS/SCI and my hiring group asked for my BI to be Fast-tracked, which I was told cut the timeframe considerably from 8-9 months to 3-4 instead. One thing I was submitted for several times but did not receive was the hiring bonus. I have yet to hear about anybody who has received that. However, I am more than happy to accept the job without it - I will continue to post any information that may be helpful and also about the first days as they progress. They told me I would have to go to HQ for 3 days initially, then report to my normal office on the fourth day. Good luck again to all of you, and keep trying - it will come through eventually!

That's delicious news!!! Congrats!!!!

Finally, a success story!

[atxtallguy]

I got THE CALL today, on my cell phone. Was approved for hire in Quantico, VA, and will be starting 9/6. For those of you curious about timeline who haven't see my prior posts, here it is:

Aug 2004 - Applied to posting
Dec 2004 - Interview
Mar 2005 - CO
May 2005 - PPP
Aug 2005 - Final Approval for Hire!

Keep in mind, I already had a TS/SCI and my hiring group asked for my BI to be Fast-tracked, which I was told cut the timeframe considerably from 8-9 months to 3-4 instead. One thing I was submitted for several times but did not receive was the hiring bonus. I have yet to hear about anybody who has received that. However, I am more than happy to accept the job without it - I will continue to post any information that may be helpful and also about the first days as they progress. They told me I would have to go to HQ for 3 days initially, then report to my normal office on the fourth day. Good luck again to all of you, and keep trying - it will come through eventually!

Congrats!!! This is great news, I'm happy for you and never met ya!! How funny! Anyway, I think this is the tipping point of more good news to come for the rest of us.

Was Quantico, VA one of your choices and/or were you given choices when the FO was presented?

[OhioLaw]

Congratulations JulieAnn. That has to be exciting. Your process seemed to last a long time. That has me worried a bit, considering you were fast tracked. I just now got the CO, so I should be hearing something in late March or so.... ;)

[diablo3305]

I got THE CALL today, on my cell phone. Was approved for hire in Quantico, VA, and will be starting 9/6. For those of you curious about timeline who haven't see my prior posts, here it is:

Aug 2004 - Applied to posting
Dec 2004 - Interview
Mar 2005 - CO
May 2005 - PPP
Aug 2005 - Final Approval for Hire!

Keep in mind, I already had a TS/SCI and my hiring group asked for my BI to be Fast-tracked, which I was told cut the timeframe considerably from 8-9 months to 3-4 instead. One thing I was submitted for several times but did not receive was the hiring bonus. I have yet to hear about anybody who has received that. However, I am more than happy to accept the job without it - I will continue to post any information that may be helpful and also about the first days as they progress. They told me I would have to go to HQ for 3 days initially, then report to my normal office on the fourth day. Good luck again to all of you, and keep trying - it will come through eventually!


thats great. Congrats. Your timeline is very close to mine, except that I haven't been approved for hire yet.

Question, between your PPP and the call you just got, were you contacted at all? Or was this the next time you heard from them since then?

[dublin]

Hey great news julieann1270! -

Could you do one thing for the rest of us? When you get to Quantico, HQ, or where ever you are going, put in a good word for us! (ha)

[tdstolz]

I got THE CALL today, on my cell phone. Was approved for hire in Quantico, VA, and will be starting 9/6. For those of you curious about timeline who haven't see my prior posts, here it is:

Aug 2004 - Applied to posting
Dec 2004 - Interview
Mar 2005 - CO
May 2005 - PPP
Aug 2005 - Final Approval for Hire!

Keep in mind, I already had a TS/SCI and my hiring group asked for my BI to be Fast-tracked, which I was told cut the timeframe considerably from 8-9 months to 3-4 instead. One thing I was submitted for several times but did not receive was the hiring bonus. I have yet to hear about anybody who has received that. However, I am more than happy to accept the job without it - I will continue to post any information that may be helpful and also about the first days as they progress. They told me I would have to go to HQ for 3 days initially, then report to my normal office on the fourth day. Good luck again to all of you, and keep trying - it will come through eventually!

Congratulations! What wonderful news!

Perhaps I have missed something, but I don't quite understand how you could apply for a position in Aug. 2004 (a FY 2004 slot, presumably) and only now be getting on--indeed, only getting a CO in March 2005? Had you ever reapplied? I applied for an IA position in Aug. 2004 as well (HQ-2004-0026). I was referred to the selecting official (that continues to be my status), but nothing ever became of it. I also don't understand how one year from application to FO is "fast tracking."

Again, congratulations!

[bnicole]

Anyone who interviewed in July still not receive a call yet?? I can only imagine how busy they are with everything, so I don't want to call and be a pest, but at the same time, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't getting a bit anxious, and knowing something either way about how the interview went (either to expect a CO, or sorry, please play again) would go a long way in easing the nerves. I'm sure there are others in the same boat.

I interviewed July 26 and haven't gotten a call yet either. I know it's only been three weeks, so I'm trying not to be too anxious... but yes, I'm in the same boat!

[bnicole]

I got THE CALL today, on my cell phone. Was approved for hire in Quantico, VA, and will be starting 9/6.

Congratulations!!!

[OrangeAlum2003]

I had my PSI last night with an SA from a local RA office. We spent about 2 and a half hours going over my SF-86 and then rehashing the same questions from a manual he was using. It was pretty straightforward, and I was as candid as humanly possible. As far as I can tell, there's nothing that I left out that could possibly come back to bite me. I have my polygraph on Friday, so we'll just see where the chips fall. All you can do is be honest and hope that they don't deem you a security risk.

On a personal note, I've been grappling with the issue of moving my family across the country. My wife really loves her job, and my parents would desperately miss being able to see their only grandchild on a regular basis. It makes me feel extremely guilty for even thinking about moving them. On the other hand, I know that if I turn down the opportunity (should it come) that I would forever wonder "what if." I know many on the board are probably experiencing the same emotions. I'll just keep accumulating as much info as possible and try and make the best decision.

[darkstar]

Darkstar and TopJag,
Have any of you heard anything yet?

Curiosity outweighing prudence, i called my HR contact @ the local FO today. Without a doubt, she has to be the most pleasant HR rep i've ever spoken w/. Anyway, i asked if the FO has heard anything from HQ and she said that she was just talking w/ another person in the office about that. I guess the consensus there is that everyone expected HQ to begin contacting my interview "cohort" by now w/ CO's and the FO doesn't know what the holdup is. Of course, she cited the immense backlog of applications as the mostly like culprit, but she seemed genuinely puzzled that no one's heard anything yet. Also, she mentioned that acc'd to someone at the FO "with knowledge" the strange comment on quick hire (the one that mentioned mgmt has discretion to broaden hiring area, blah, blah, blah) means that an individual is not being considered for a lower grade b/c they are "overly qualified" and thus are being considered for a higher grade. I mentioned that i'm facing a quandary regaring whether or not to register for the coming semester, and she said that if the IA position is the only thing from keeping me from registering then i should go ahead, as even if i was given a CO today my start date would most likely not be until after the first of the calendar year. Lastly, I pressed her for info regarding interview panel recommendations and she allowed that as far as she knows, every packet sent in to HQ (of which mine was one) was given the green light. Her message was, basically, to hang tight and HQ should call soon. She also invited me to call as much as i think i need to and she'll be happy to answer my questions (as i said, a very pleasant woman)...

Any day now...

On a peripherally related topic, I applied to the FBI SA position at the same time i submitted my app for the IA. To be honest, i had forgotten all about it... until i rec'd an email today from the bureau inviting me to take the phase I in october. IA is what i really want to do, and as long as i'm in the running it will be my first priority. But i like to hedge my bets, and being an SA would suck not at all. I'll probably take the test, and if i pass and i'm eventually offered the IA position i'll just remove my name from consideration...

[OhioLaw]

Good to hear that Darkstar. SA would be my absolute dream job, but I am making the sacrifice for my family and not doing it. IA will be great as well, anything to help the country out.

[Gigio]

On a peripherally related topic, I applied to the FBI SA position at the same time i submitted my app for the IA. To be honest, i had forgotten all about it... until i rec'd an email today from the bureau inviting me to take the phase I in october. IA is what i really want to do, and as long as i'm in the running it will be my first priority. But i like to hedge my bets, and being an SA would suck not at all. I'll probably take the test, and if i pass and i'm eventually offered the IA position i'll just remove my name from consideration...

when i called to turn down taking the phase I test, the person indicated that she could freeze my application and that i could thaw it any time before my 37th birthday. made me feel good about having another potential option. (like darkstar, IA is what i really want to do.) just wanted people to know that turning down phase I testing doesn't have to mean eliminating that option forever.

[darkstar]

Good to hear that Darkstar. SA would be my absolute dream job, but I am making the sacrifice for my family and not doing it. IA will be great as well, anything to help the country out.

i know what you mean about not wanting to put your family through the rigors of life as an SA. i applied on a whim, mostly because i was curious as to what the app looked like and was mildly surprised to see how relatively simple it was (i've come to discover that the hard parts come much later). however, my wife's not too keen on the idea, partially b/c of the moves that go w/ being an SA (her chosen career of elementary school teacher doesn't mix too well w/ life on the move) but mostly b/c she's opposed to any job that involves carrying a firearm. i told her that i would only seriously pursue the SA if the IA falls through completely, and she seems ok w/ that, but i get the impression that her current acceptance of the idea that i might one day be and SA in the FBI is based on her belief that i'll eventually end up w/ the IA position. That said, i'm pretty sure i would enjoy a career as an SA, though i don't know how much my family would share that sentiment if possiblity became a reality.

To be continued...

[mugrad04]

Hey there. I still haven't heard from HQ after being told that I should be hearing from them very soon. My feeling is that they are backlogged and may not be able to meet the Aug. 17 deadline.

Have you tried emailing HQ? If you do, make sure to say that you have already been interviewed so they know where you are in the process.


I've been away from the forum for awhile and I was wondering if the August 17th deadline is to get all of the CO's out or is it for final offers too? Every time the phone rings at my work, I'm hoping its THE CALL.

[Balapai]

You might try contacting an HR specialist at your local field office. Do you have the number of the person who gave you your CO. Given the length of the process, I would say that you most likely have a bit of a way to go, since you only received a conditional offer back in late May. My AC is listed on my written CO, yet the contact number I have is for the HR specialist handling my application. You could probably find out who to talk to by contacting your local field office, but I doubt you will get any kind of definitive information. You still have to complete the BI and PSI and polygraph.

I notice that you haven't heard from them since late May. You were never contacted to come in for processing? I know the BI can start before your polygraph because mine did, but I heard from them to schedule within 3 weeks of my CO. In any event, the best bet is to call or email about your situation and find out who you can talk to.

I actually had my 3 p's the day after I interviewed and was given the CO (late may). The BI started soon after (according to friends and neighbors who were contacted)

[Kristin]

Do you know what the personell director's name is. I talked to someone in the B'ham office in staffing but I don't think it was her. I'm glad to see how positive you are about your current status. Hopefully you'll get on sooner than later. I hope I can also. I just moved to MS from Auburn while I'm still searching for another job. Never been to Gadsden but I've got a good friend I met in grad school at Auburn from there.

I am not sure if I am allowed to say her name and number over this forum but you can find this information at http://birmingham.fbi.gov/employ.htm. At the very bottom of the page is her name and number. And I am sorry, I was wrong, her title is not personnel director but staffing assistant.

Don't get me wrong I was very upset about my status considering I have completed courses in counterterrorism/counterintelligence, American national security, etc. But I am trying to remain strong and positive about it. I have obcessed over this job so much that I named three pupies, Fidelity, Bravery, and Integrity

I feel that if the status on quickhire says that I could be considered at a later date then that means there is still some hope. Small hope, but still the same, hope. I have worked in politics as a lobbyist long enough to know that government is a "wild card" in that everyday is a new day and anything is possible.

I keep my sanity by keeping up with the latest information about terrorism, counterterrorism, counterintelligence, intelligence, current events, and other things. You should too. Just keep the faith. We will probably be working together one day and will look back on these days and laugh about how worried we were. :)

[electra1978]

Curiosity outweighing prudence, i called my HR contact @ the local FO today. Without a doubt, she has to be the most pleasant HR rep i've ever spoken w/. Anyway, i asked if the FO has heard anything from HQ and she said that she was just talking w/ another person in the office about that. I guess the consensus there is that everyone expected HQ to begin contacting my interview "cohort" by now w/ CO's and the FO doesn't know what the holdup is. Of course, she cited the immense backlog of applications as the mostly like culprit, but she seemed genuinely puzzled that no one's heard anything yet. Also, she mentioned that acc'd to someone at the FO "with knowledge" the strange comment on quick hire (the one that mentioned mgmt has discretion to broaden hiring area, blah, blah, blah) means that an individual is not being considered for a lower grade b/c they are "overly qualified" and thus are being considered for a higher grade. I mentioned that i'm facing a quandary regaring whether or not to register for the coming semester, and she said that if the IA position is the only thing from keeping me from registering then i should go ahead, as even if i was given a CO today my start date would most likely not be until after the first of the calendar year. Lastly, I pressed her for info regarding interview panel recommendations and she allowed that as far as she knows, every packet sent in to HQ (of which mine was one) was given the green light. Her message was, basically, to hang tight and HQ should call soon. She also invited me to call as much as i think i need to and she'll be happy to answer my questions (as i said, a very pleasant woman)...

Any day now...

Thanks Darkstar! That makes me feel A LOT better. My feeling was that there is a backlog in the number of applicants that need to be called, and as such, I doubt they will be sticking to today's deadline.

Oh, and congrats!! I knew they would greenlight you! Now we are both in the same position...

[kgille2]

Well, I am new to the thread but have found useful information..

I applied for the IA position in Feb. 2005. Got the call for an interview in March 2005. Went for 3 panel interview, was passed through to the next stage. Two weeks later I went back where I had my SI,poly, and drug testing all in one day Passed through for all of those. In May 2005, they started my BI. At the same time, I am up for the same position at NSA. Last week, both FBI and NSA were contacting me about verfying information on my credit report. One called right after the other ! Maybe thats a coincidence, I dont know. Anyway, a Special Agent has been calling me everyday to get some paperwork regarding one of my credit accounts. I hope this means that when I send it to them, I will be approved and given the FO. Any thoughts? ;)

[electra1978]

Well, I am new to the thread but have found useful information..

I applied for the IA position in Feb. 2005. Got the call for an interview in March 2005. Went for 3 panel interview, was passed through to the next stage. Two weeks later I went back where I had my SI,poly, and drug testing all in one day Passed through for all of those. In May 2005, they started my BI. At the same time, I am up for the same position at NSA. Last week, both FBI and NSA were contacting me about verfying information on my credit report. One called right after the other ! Maybe thats a coincidence, I dont know. Anyway, a Special Agent has been calling me everyday to get some paperwork regarding one of my credit accounts. I hope this means that when I send it to them, I will be approved and given the FO. Any thoughts? ;)

Hi there! Welcome to the fabulous IA threads. It sounds like things are moving along well for you...compared to the usual turnaround time most people have experienced. It sounds like an FO is right around the corner...

[kgille2]

Hi there! Welcome to the fabulous IA threads. It sounds like things are moving along well for you...compared to the usual turnaround time most people have experienced. It sounds like an FO is right around the corner...

Thanks! I thought I was the only getting antsy, now I know Im not alone. Ive been trying to decide which one I want more, the NSA or FBI position. I have a MIS BS degree. The NSA clearance has been much harder, I had to do 2 polygraphs and a psychological. Wondering about the recruitment bonus and if I qualify for it.

[electra1978]

Thanks! I thought I was the only getting antsy, now I know Im not alone. Ive been trying to decide which one I want more, the NSA or FBI position. I have a MIS BS degree. The NSA clearance has been much harder, I had to do 2 polygraphs and a psychological. Wondering about the recruitment bonus and if I qualify for it.

I haven't heard of anyone getting the FBI recruitment bonus, so I wouldn't count on that as a decisive factor. The two agencies have very different organizational cultures and as such, different ways of conducting business. Is the NSA position IA as well? I know personally, if I had a choice, I would definitely pursue the FBI. But again, it's a personal decision based on my analysis of both agencies and where I feel I would best be able to contribute.

[diablo3305]

I haven't heard of anyone getting the FBI recruitment bonus, so I wouldn't count on that as a decisive factor. The two agencies have very different organizational cultures and as such, different ways of conducting business. Is the NSA position IA as well? I know personally, if I had a choice, I would definitely pursue the FBI. But again, it's a personal decision based on my analysis of both agencies and where I feel I would best be able to contribute.


the bonus was offered to me when I got my CO, however I haven't been given a final offer yet so I can't say for sure if I will get it or not.

[kgille2]

The position at NSA is an IA as well. When I got my CO, they only told me my pay grade and not a dollar amount. Does that mean that I can negotiate it or that it is flexible? Does anyone know what the bonus being offered is based on?

[bad_timing]

The position at NSA is an IA as well. When I got my CO, they only told me my pay grade and not a dollar amount. Does that mean that I can negotiate it or that it is flexible? Does anyone know what the bonus being offered is based on?

Unlike the FBI, I believe the NSA and CIA will issue specific dollar amount when and if you are given an FO. I am currently in the process for CIA and that is my understanding. This may sound crazy to some but if I was given a choice between the CIA and FBI, I will choose the FBI. Like everyone else I have my reasons.

Obviously with NSA, their focus/mission deals mostly with signals intel. and cryptanalysis. It just depends on what interests you more. Personally, I am a total blockhead when it comes to dealing with any kind of numbers or mathematical pattern analysis. So, I definitely have no business working for the NSA...even though I applied :D

[electra1978]

Unlike the FBI, I believe the NSA and CIA will issue specific dollar amount when and if you are given an FO. I am currently in the process for CIA and that is my understanding. This may sound crazy to some but if I was given a choice between the CIA and FBI, I will choose the FBI. Like everyone else I have my reasons.

Obviously with NSA, their focus/mission deals mostly with signals intel. and cryptanalysis. It just depends on what interests you more. Personally, I am a total blockhead when it comes to dealing with any kind of numbers or mathematical pattern analysis. So, I definitely have no business working for the NSA...even though I applied :D

Yeah, same here! I would choose the FBI over any agency actually. I guess I'm just really "brand loyal" which is why being so far in this process is (at the risk of sounding like a cheeseball) a dream come true. :)

[kgille2]

I know what u mean about that, but I still wonder why the FBI didnt give me a number?

[diablo3305]

The position at NSA is an IA as well. When I got my CO, they only told me my pay grade and not a dollar amount. Does that mean that I can negotiate it or that it is flexible? Does anyone know what the bonus being offered is based on?


for the FBI, the way it was explained to me on the phone was that the bonus is based on your base salary (not including locality pay). The woman I spoke to told me what mine would be. However I don't know if it will happen or if anything will change when my FO comes because the bonus and locality were not stated on the written CO

[VA Man]

Well, I am new to the thread but have found useful information..

I applied for the IA position in Feb. 2005. Got the call for an interview in March 2005. Went for 3 panel interview, was passed through to the next stage. Two weeks later I went back where I had my SI,poly, and drug testing all in one day Passed through for all of those. In May 2005, they started my BI. At the same time, I am up for the same position at NSA. Last week, both FBI and NSA were contacting me about verfying information on my credit report. One called right after the other ! Maybe thats a coincidence, I dont know. Anyway, a Special Agent has been calling me everyday to get some paperwork regarding one of my credit accounts. I hope this means that when I send it to them, I will be approved and given the FO. Any thoughts? ;)

I posted on another thread but everyone seems to be here so I'll ask again.
How did you find out about your poly and drug screen and how long did it take? I had mine last week. I don't want to bug the HR person at the FO but I am very anxious, especially about the poly. Any help would be appreciated.

[bad_timing]

Yeah, same here! I would choose the FBI over any agency actually. I guess I'm just really "brand loyal" which is why being so far in this process is (at the risk of sounding like a cheeseball) a dream come true. :)

Cheeseball?!

Nah, you just know what you want that's all. Trust me, I'm in the same boat as you are. The only reason I applied to other agencies was so that I didn't put all of my eggs in one basket.

Update: I am FINALLY going to take my drug test on Friday. The final piece of the puzzle will be in place. I just hope and pray the folks in adjudications like the final product. The AC who has my file was ultimately shocked that I haven't taken it yet, considering everything else is done. I'm glad because I haven't gone to the bathroom in two weeks. :D

[tdstolz]

I know what u mean about that, but I still wonder why the FBI didnt give me a number?

I shouldn't think a specific number is needed. FBI (and CIA and NSA) employees follow the GS pay table: http://www.opm.gov/oca/05tables/indexGS.asp It's easy to find the base rate as well as the locality adjustment.

I hope this is helpful.

[waitingindc]

I posted on another thread but everyone seems to be here so I'll ask again.
How did you find out about your poly and drug screen and how long did it take? I had mine last week. I don't want to bug the HR person at the FO but I am very anxious, especially about the poly. Any help would be appreciated.
To be honest, you should know whether or not you passed the poly. If they grilled you extensively after the first round of tests, then the likelihood is that you either did not pass or are listed as inconclusive and will have to retest. if however you went through your charts, and there were little if any follow up questions, then in all likelihood you passed and that is the last you will hear of it...

[bad_timing]

To be honest, you should know whether or not you passed the poly. If they grilled you extensively after the first round of tests, then the likelihood is that you either did not pass or are listed as inconclusive and will have to retest. if however you went through your charts, and there were little if any follow up questions, then in all likelihood you passed and that is the last you will hear of it...

Piggybacking off of what dc said:

The examiner will be able to give you a pretty good idea if you passed or not. The results go to HQ right away to be analyzed further so if you didn't pass they will let you know soon after. At least that is what I was told.

[kgille2]

I shouldn't think a specific number is needed. FBI (and CIA and NSA) employees follow the GS pay table: http://www.opm.gov/oca/05tables/indexGS.asp It's easy to find the base rate as well as the locality adjustment.

I hope this is helpful.

If I recall correctly, the annoucement had a starting of 38,000, does anyone remember? The starting for a GS7 is about 35K. Do all GS7 always start at the base?

[bad_timing]

If I recall correctly, the annoucement had a starting of 38,000, does anyone remember? The starting for a GS7 is about 35K. Do all GS7 always start at the base?

My written CO for GS-7 states, $30,347 (not exact) minus locality pay.

[diablo3305]

I posted on another thread but everyone seems to be here so I'll ask again.
How did you find out about your poly and drug screen and how long did it take? I had mine last week. I don't want to bug the HR person at the FO but I am very anxious, especially about the poly. Any help would be appreciated.


if the results are not good, you should hear something pretty quickly, within 2 weeks. I found out 2 months after when I called my HR rep that I passed. The examiner may give you an indication or may just tell you that its ultimately up to HQ.

[diablo3305]

If I recall correctly, the annoucement had a starting of 38,000, does anyone remember? The starting for a GS7 is about 35K. Do all GS7 always start at the base?


starting isn't 35. Its about what bad timing said. Thats a GS7 step 1. Your locality pay is added onto that.

[Gigio]

If I recall correctly, the annoucement had a starting of 38,000, does anyone remember? The starting for a GS7 is about 35K. Do all GS7 always start at the base?

no, gs-7's don't always have to start out at the base. if your current salary is higher than the 7 step 1 salary, you may be able to negotiate something higher. the max amount any starting gs-7 can make is a 7 step 10 salary.

if you're a former federal employee, and have ever made more than a 7 step 10 salary, i believe HR can give you the 7 step 10 pay without too much wrangling. this may be different for FO's or RA's since funding levels may be different.

but anyway, your gs level is absolute. your step may be negotiable. hope that helps.

[diablo3305]

I wonder how the negotiation works. For instance, I get paid at an hourly rate, which would be equal to about $42,000 a year. However a GS-7 step one as stated in my CO is only $30,567, which is a quite a pay cut. I am not a former federal employee, so I wonder if I have any room to negotiate with them. It would be nice to start a higher step, at least so that with the locality pay im around the same salary rate.

[kgille2]

The 35K I spoke of is with locality. I hope I can negoiate at least to $40K if given a FO.

[forms]

Anyone who interviewed in July still not receive a call yet??

I interviewed in June. No call. Hoping, hoping....

[Gigio]

I wonder how the negotiation works. For instance, I get paid at an hourly rate, which would be equal to about $42,000 a year. However a GS-7 step one as stated in my CO is only $30,567, which is a quite a pay cut. I am not a former federal employee, so I wonder if I have any room to negotiate with them. It would be nice to start a higher step, at least so that with the locality pay im around the same salary rate.

the first step is to ask :) you'll get an idea real quick of where it will go from there. when given a conditional offer at a 9, i asked if they were offering at a 9/1 or a higher step, and the woman said "no, this is for a 9/1." i let it go at that. but when i received the offer with the start date, i asked again. this time, i got a different answer. she asked for some verifying documents (pay stubs) and within a few days, my starting salary had increased to the 9/10 level.

so, my suggestion would be to, when you receive your final offer, tell the HR rep how much you're making now and ask if you may be able to get a step increase.

this is important not only for your first year of pay, but the steps follow you through future promotions, too. if you're hired at a 9/5, you don't automatically get promoted to an 11/5 when your promotion comes through, but your current salary is taken into account. it goes like this:

if you look at the GS pay schedule, you'll see that the pay difference between steps is constant. these aren't real numbers, but let's say a 9/5 makes 40K, a 9/6 42K, and a 9/7 44K, etc. so the difference between steps is $2,000. when it comes time for your promotion, they'll have to make sure that you make more than two steps above your current salary. so if you're a 9/5 making 40K, your starting salary as an 11 will have to be at a step that provides you at LEAST 44K. this might let you get promoted to say, an 11/3 rather than an 11/1.

may be a big difference in pay, might not. but as far as i'm concerned, every little bit helps.

[electra1978]

I interviewed in June. No call. Hoping, hoping....

Hi. Have you spoken to anyone either at your FO or HQ? Hang in there!

[diablo3305]

the first step is to ask :) you'll get an idea real quick of where it will go from there. when given a conditional offer at a 9, i asked if they were offering at a 9/1 or a higher step, and the woman said "no, this is for a 9/1." i let it go at that. but when i received the offer with the start date, i asked again. this time, i got a different answer. she asked for some verifying documents (pay stubs) and within a few days, my starting salary had increased to the 9/10 level.

so, my suggestion would be to, when you receive your final offer, tell the HR rep how much you're making now and ask if you may be able to get a step increase.

this is important not only for your first year of pay, but the steps follow you through future promotions, too. if you're hired at a 9/5, you don't automatically get promoted to an 11/5 when your promotion comes through, but your current salary is taken into account. it goes like this:

if you look at the GS pay schedule, you'll see that the pay difference between steps is constant. these aren't real numbers, but let's say a 9/5 makes 40K, a 9/6 42K, and a 9/7 44K, etc. so the difference between steps is $2,000. when it comes time for your promotion, they'll have to make sure that you make more than two steps above your current salary. so if you're a 9/5 making 40K, your starting salary as an 11 will have to be at a step that provides you at LEAST 44K. this might let you get promoted to say, an 11/3 rather than an 11/1.

may be a big difference in pay, might not. but as far as i'm concerned, every little bit helps.

thanks. I will be sure to ask. Someday, when i get that call (i hope), ill see what I can squeeze out. Hopefully even though I don't get paid a salary I can still negotiate a higher step.

[forms]

Hi. Have you spoken to anyone either at your FO or HQ? Hang in there!

No, not yet. I am busy, busy, busy this week and thought maybe I'd try to track down someone on Monday. Should I call HQ or the FO. I don't know who to call in either place. I don't have an AC.

Also, I worked years ago for the NSA as an polical IA. The work I did sounds very similar to the work described for the FBI IA. The NSA people were nice people and I liked working there. In that go around I was offered at the same time jobs at a GS 7 with the CIA and a GS 11 with the NSA. I took the higher pay. Someone once said that the NSA pays highest for their intel staff, but I don't know if that is true or not. It seemed to be so in my case.

BTW--I go away for two days and you guys fill up 6 pages of postings. These are monster threads. I wonder since the first IA thread started how many posts this topic has generated?

[electra1978]

No, not yet. I am busy, busy, busy this week and thought maybe I'd try to track down someone on Monday. Should I call HQ or the FO. I don't know who to call in either place. I don't have an AC.

Also, I worked years ago for the NSA as an polical IA. The work I did sounds very similar to the work described for the FBI IA. The NSA people were nice people and I liked working there. In that go around I was offered at the same time jobs at a GS 7 with the CIA and a GS 11 with the NSA. I took the higher pay. Someone once said that the NSA pays highest for their intel staff, but I don't know if that is true or not. It seemed to be so in my case.

BTW--I go away for two days and you guys fill up 6 pages of postings. These are monster threads. I wonder since the first IA thread started how many posts this topic has generated?

I would call your FO-HR Unit to start with and see if they can give you any info from their end. If they can't I would either email HQ or call them to inquire.

It is pretty impressive how many threads we go through. I really feel the moderators need to create a separate board for us to post on because were ain't going nowhere for many months to come!

[bad_timing]

No, not yet. I am busy, busy, busy this week and thought maybe I'd try to track down someone on Monday. Should I call HQ or the FO. I don't know who to call in either place. I don't have an AC.

Also, I worked years ago for the NSA as an polical IA. The work I did sounds very similar to the work described for the FBI IA. The NSA people were nice people and I liked working there. In that go around I was offered at the same time jobs at a GS 7 with the CIA and a GS 11 with the NSA. I took the higher pay. Someone once said that the NSA pays highest for their intel staff, but I don't know if that is true or not. It seemed to be so in my case.

BTW--I go away for two days and you guys fill up 6 pages of postings. These are monster threads. I wonder since the first IA thread started how many posts this topic has generated?

It is amazing how much we post. I'm the same way, I usually don't check the board over the weekend and by the time I look at it on Monday, I spend close to an hour catching up.

I'll be honest, I like the constant communication because no one else knows what we are going through :) I sincerely hope that we all make it and run into each other at some point.

[OrangeAlum2003]

no, gs-7's don't always have to start out at the base. if your current salary is higher than the 7 step 1 salary, you may be able to negotiate something higher. the max amount any starting gs-7 can make is a 7 step 10 salary.

if you're a former federal employee, and have ever made more than a 7 step 10 salary, i believe HR can give you the 7 step 10 pay without too much wrangling. this may be different for FO's or RA's since funding levels may be different.

but anyway, your gs level is absolute. your step may be negotiable. hope that helps.

Any idea if they will match salaries for private sector employment. I was offered a GS-11 (no step specified), but step 1 in DC where my CO is located is considerably lower than my current pay. I'm going to ask them to bump me up a few steps within the grade to match my current pay. I think that's reasonable.

[OrangeAlum2003]

I shouldn't think a specific number is needed. FBI (and CIA and NSA) employees follow the GS pay table: http://www.opm.gov/oca/05tables/indexGS.asp It's easy to find the base rate as well as the locality adjustment.

I hope this is helpful.

When I received an offer with the CIA, they gave me a specific dollar amount written in the offer letter, because they specify the step within the grade of the offer. You can negotiate the step within reason. With the FBI this time, I was only told the grade for which my CO is, but I'm hoping to negotiate a step higher than 1 to minimize any pay cut I would have to take. I'm also going to press hard for the recruitment bonus, because I'm not a current federal employee. There have been a few people on this board who have received the money, but you do have to sign a commitment to serve for a couple of years. They do calculate it based off of your base salary as a percent, not to exceed $10,000. I forget what the percent is, but I think as a GS-9 you would receive the max.

[kgille2]

I wonder under what circumstances is the bonus given, how does one qualify?

[OhioLaw]

I wonder under what circumstances is the bonus given, how does one qualify?
I hope I get the bonus considering the 65% paycut I will be taking. Honestly though, the money has nothing whatsoever to do with my decision to want to be an IA. To me, it is all about pride for my country and love for my family. Of course the combined $225,000 debt that my fiancee and I have from grad school makes me think a little more about the money :eek:

[bad_timing]

I hope I get the bonus considering the 65% paycut I will be taking. Honestly though, the money has nothing whatsoever to do with my decision to want to be an IA. To me, it is all about pride for my country and love for my family. Of course the combined $225,000 debt that my fiancee and I have from grad school makes me think a little more about the money :eek:

...and I thought my $4,500 debt was bad.

[OhioLaw]

...and I though my $4,500 debt was bad.
We have 30 years to pay it back, so it is not as bad as it sounds. Consolidation is a good thing! It is pretty crazy though considering that we both had undergrad covered from scholarships. I imagine it would be around $400,000 without them.

[Jedburgh II]

...but anyway, your gs level is absolute. your step may be negotiable. hope that helps.Any idea if they will match salaries for private sector employment. I was offered a GS-11 (no step specified), but step 1 in DC where my CO is located is considerably lower than my current pay. I'm going to ask them to bump me up a few steps within the grade to match my current pay. I think that's reasonable.
I'll second Gigio's statement. I was informed that the CO is always at Step 1 within the pay grade you are offered, but upon successful completion of the BI and final job offer there is room for negotiation of the step within the pay grade of entry.

[OrangeAlum2003]

...and I thought my $4,500 debt was bad.

It's not

[GTgrad02]

On a peripherally related topic, I applied to the FBI SA position at the same time i submitted my app for the IA. To be honest, i had forgotten all about it... until i rec'd an email today from the bureau inviting me to take the phase I in october. IA is what i really want to do, and as long as i'm in the running it will be my first priority. But i like to hedge my bets, and being an SA would suck not at all. I'll probably take the test, and if i pass and i'm eventually offered the IA position i'll just remove my name from consideration...

Darkstar.. you might want to stick w/ the SA app. It may take them 18-24 months to get you in to test for Phase 1. When I went in June, my app was the youngest @ 14 months... others were 24+months old! (No wonder why some of them came in late for the test)

[GTgrad02]

I got THE CALL today, on my cell phone. Was approved for hire in Quantico, VA, and will be starting 9/6. For those of you curious about timeline who haven't see my prior posts, here it is:

Aug 2004 - Applied to posting
Dec 2004 - Interview
Mar 2005 - CO
May 2005 - PPP
Aug 2005 - Final Approval for Hire!



AWESOME... Score another one for the good guys [& gals]
Lotto Winners to date: Sigepufou, tdstolz, julieann1270, any others?

[GTgrad02]

I know what u mean about that, but I still wonder why the FBI didnt give me a number?

If I recall correctly, the annoucement had a starting of 38,000, does anyone remember? The starting for a GS7 is about 35K. Do all GS7 always start at the base?

Go to for general info: http://opm.gov/Federal_Salaries_Wages/
Or specifically for GS system: http://opm.gov/oca/05tables/indexGS.asp

Being a current fed in DHS, I hope I can weigh in on this. What really counts is the FINAL OFFER! In DHS, I have seen it go the OTHER way (get less... ouch) for many folks. Some offered higher positions, but when they filled up, they were offered a lower one "take it or leave it." I was one of the lucky few, because I chose a travel assignment. That's when I learned about being flexible, but I had to be on TDY for 8 months solid.

I doubt that will happen in this case, because our experience was very unique, and we had a private contractor doing the hiring, NCS Pearson (the dept didn't exist yet!). The FBI is on the General Schedule (GS) system, with set pay tables. So the hyperlinks will tell you EXACTLY what $ you will make. More to follow on this below...


thanks. I will be sure to ask. Someday, when i get that call (i hope), ill see what I can squeeze out. Hopefully even though I don't get paid a salary I can still negotiate a higher step.

the first step is to ask :) ... she asked for some verifying documents (pay stubs) and within a few days, my starting salary had increased ... so, my suggestion would be to, when you receive your final offer, tell the HR rep how much you're making now and ask if you may be able to get a step increase.

Gigio: Amen! I had the same experience. MY intial phone CO on 6/12 was @ GS-9 (below my current level), however, I immediately notified the staffer that I was a fed and that was below my current $. She said "fax me your SF-50..." which is basically your federal employment birth certificate with your job description/salary/clearance level, and a whole lot more. I did within the hour. My written CO which was printed 2 days later indicated GS-9 Step 4, that simple! I plan to ask for more @ the FO because I have worked in DHS for 3 years without a pay raise (other than the cost of living increase), despite a plethora of local and national merit awards! Gotta love pay banding! Can't wait to get out of the SV pay plan and into the GS one! It makes a lot more sense!


I wonder how the negotiation works. For instance, I get paid at an hourly rate, which would be equal to about $42,000 a year. However a GS-7 step one as stated in my CO is only $30,567, which is a quite a pay cut. I am not a former federal employee, so I wonder if I have any room to negotiate with them. It would be nice to start a higher step, at least so that with the locality pay im around the same salary rate.

Diablo: When I was getting on board w/ DHS, they asked for and accepted my most recent pay stubs from a private sector job. There is know reason why FBI won't accept it too. I believe it is STD practice, really. By all means, ask! Push a little, ask them for time to think it over, negotiate, you are worth it.

FYI [any/all] - for those of you who don't know the way federal pay works... you are not on salary. You get paid by the hour... The annual salary is based upon your hourly rate * # working hours / year (2087, I think, but see the links @ top for specifics)... I hope this makes sense. Okay, example: lets say I make 45k/yr. we'll also round to 2100 working hours/year. 45000/2100 = 21.43/hr. Cool?

In addition, I am not certain, but I think we are covered under FLSA (Fair Labor Stds Act) and are "Non-Exempt" under Title 5 US Code (I hope that's not the same thing :-), which means anything over 40/wk is OT (1.5 * hourly).

[darkstar]

Darkstar.. you might want to stick w/ the SA app. It may take them 18-24 months to get you in to test for Phase 1. When I went in June, my app was the youngest @ 14 months... others were 24+months old! (No wonder why some of them came in late for the test)

wow, that's a long time to wait... i applied in march, so 7 mos doesn't seem all that bad.... i'm planning on riding it out at least through phase I (which, for me, is sched for the beginning of october)... hopefully by then i'll know more about where i stand w/ the IA and will make a decision then... if i'm still in the running for the IA and pass phase I i'll probably freeze my app (unless phase II is going to be many months away, and if that's the case i might let it ride a little longer)... obviously, if i get passed over for IA i'll follow through w/ the SA app until its conclusion... can't imagine life at this point without a federal application to obsess over...

[GTgrad02]

I posted on another thread but everyone seems to be here so I'll ask again.
How did you find out about your poly and drug screen and how long did it take? I had mine last week. I don't want to bug the HR person at the FO but I am very anxious, especially about the poly. Any help would be appreciated.

To be honest, you should know whether or not you passed the poly. If they grilled you extensively after the first round of tests, then the likelihood is that you either did not pass or are listed as inconclusive and will have to retest. if however you went through your charts, and there were little if any follow up questions, then in all likelihood you passed and that is the last you will hear of it...

VA Man: I hate to answer a ? with another ? ... but how did they treat you after the poly? That's a good indicator, usually. I have to completely agree w/ Waiting-in-DC. I have heard that the examiner really determines if you passed or not. But the wigs in HQ want to certify their work.

Q: If the poly examiners @ the FO are competent enough to evaluate suspects in criminal cases independently, why can't they do the same for pre-employment?

I was lucky, I "knew" right away. The poly examiner was really tough as nails on the front end, but nice on the back end of it. She was exceptionally helpful immediately afterwards, getting me linked up w/ the security division for my PSI and the RN for my Urinalysis. I got all 3 same day w/o prior planning/communication between the parties. Thank goodness I asked her about the other 2 P's!!!!

Dialogue:
"Um... I thought there were 3-P's, ma'am? What about the other 2?"
"Three what's? Oh, you mean the personnel interview and the... yeah... let's see."

[GTgrad02]

[I] can't imagine life at this point without a federal application to obsess over...

AMEN! Tha's all you can do with federal apps. they are so in depth, I think that's why so many folks don't even try! If you can't take the paperwork, the bureaucracy, and the waiting, then you definitely will hate the job!

Though I infrequently (but not never!) suffer from the paranoid saga of the endless question "when will it ever come... if ever...," I sympathize with those unfamiliar w/ the process. (though I had a rough 2 weeks, there, when I didn't post) We won't know when the call will come, but it will. We just have to make the best decisions for know, but keeping things just tenative enough to where we can move on short notice. Good news: God gave us all great talents, and Uncle Sam knows it. Else, we wouldn't be here. I think everyone's working, paying their bills, got enough food to eat... so what's a few weeks/months? I keep trying to make myself busy w/ the wife, reading, continually applying to other agencies, etc. You've got to keep casting the line, eventually something will bite!

[GTgrad02]

We need to start numbering these threads so we can keep track!
FBI Thread # 1000234087234 !!!!!!!!!!!
Like a bad "Rocky" flashback...

[GTgrad02]

I have a BI question. Today, the local security guy (who did my PSI) called me in to deliver a copy of my passport. While there, he informed me that that was all that remained between me and adjudication, per his contact in DC (Mr. Ambiguous). At first, I was real excited, but then I thought, how is that so? I know that the Investigator here in town is active all this week. In addition, many of my references have not been reached yet. Any ideas? Do they meet with EVERYONE? Do they have the discretion not to?

TDStolz? JulieAnn1270? BuMan? Sig?

[BuMan]

I doubt that will happen in this case, because our experience was very unique, and we had a private contractor doing the hiring, NCS Pearson (the dept didn't exist yet!). The FBI is on the General Schedule (GS) system, with set pay tables. So the hyperlinks will tell you EXACTLY what $ you will make. More to follow on this below...

Gigio: Amen! I had the same experience. MY intial phone CO on 6/12 was @ GS-9 (below my current level), however, I immediately notified the staffer that I was a fed and that was below my current $. She said "fax me your SF-50..." which is basically your federal employment birth certificate with your job description/salary/clearance level, and a whole lot more. I did within the hour. My written CO which was printed 2 days later indicated GS-9 Step 4, that simple! I plan to ask for more @ the FO because I have worked in DHS for 3 years without a pay raise (other than the cost of living increase), despite a plethora of local and national merit awards! Gotta love pay banding! Can't wait to get out of the SV pay plan and into the GS one! It makes a lot more sense!


And the FBI is heading towards pay banding for IAs, so you may be back in a pay banding system before long...


Diablo: When I was getting on board w/ DHS, they asked for and accepted my most recent pay stubs from a private sector job. There is know reason why FBI won't accept it too. I believe it is STD practice, really. By all means, ask! Push a little, ask them for time to think it over, negotiate, you are worth it.

The FBI may try to match private sector pay, but there is nothing that requires it to match private sector pay. There is not even a requirement to match military pay, for example. We were trying to hire a guy with a tremendous amount of experience (non-IA position) in the military who received multiple specialty pays. When it came time for salary negotiations, however, the pin-head in the Administrative Services Division would only consider base pay, which resulted in the highly qualified candidate taking a job in the private sector. Big loss for the FBI. The comment that the HR specialist made to our coordinator was very telling - "Well, he's retiring from the military, so he's got that retirement pay coming in addition to his salary from the government." Didn't seem to realize that the guy was getting the retirement pay for putting his neck on the line for 20+ years and it shouldn't have anything to do with what we pay him for his knowledge, skills and expertise.

FYI [any/all] - for those of you who don't know the way federal pay works... you are not on salary. You get paid by the hour... The annual salary is based upon your hourly rate * # working hours / year (2087, I think, but see the links @ top for specifics)... I hope this makes sense. Okay, example: lets say I make 45k/yr. we'll also round to 2100 working hours/year. 45000/2100 = 21.43/hr. Cool?

In addition, I am not certain, but I think we are covered under FLSA (Fair Labor Stds Act) and are "Non-Exempt" under Title 5 US Code (I hope that's not the same thing :-), which means anything over 40/wk is OT (1.5 * hourly).

You are FLSA non-exempt up to the GS-10 grade, at which point you become exempt. And with the funding shortages that hit the FBI, in many cases, overtime simply won't be available, so you get a choice of not working or compensatory time (1 hour off for every hour worked). Once you get above GS-10 Step 1, you recieve time and a half of a GS-10 Step 1 OR your hourly rate of pay, whichever is greater. So eventually you end up working for straight time, if your grade gets high enough. For a while there, I was working for several dollars an hour less than my normal hourly rate when earning overtime until they changed to the current policy.

[bad_timing]

I have a BI question. Today, the local security guy (who did my PSI) called me in to deliver a copy of my passport. While there, he informed me that that was all that remained between me and adjudication, per his contact in DC (Mr. Ambiguous). At first, I was real excited, but then I thought, how is that so? I know that the Investigator here in town is active all this week. In addition, many of my references have not been reached yet. Any ideas? Do they meet with EVERYONE? Do they have the discretion not to?

TDStolz? JulieAnn1270? BuMan? Sig?

It sounds like you're on your way. I think I'm in the same boat as you as I will find out my status tomorrow.

[atxtallguy]

Darkstar.. you might want to stick w/ the SA app. It may take them 18-24 months to get you in to test for Phase 1. When I went in June, my app was the youngest @ 14 months... others were 24+months old! (No wonder why some of them came in late for the test)

18-24 months??? Really?? Not to rock the boat, but I applied for the SA Nov/Dec of 04 and took the Phase I test in Mar/Apr. I was impressed with the quick turn around. I didn't make the cut, but out of all tests I've taken in my life, this one was pretty unique. I do plan to try again in Mar/Apr of next year.

[kgille2]

My BI started about April 11. I remember because I was at the NSA for processing. Ive never been out of the US (sad, I know) and have no foreign ties of any kind. Hopefully, my BI will be done soon. ;)

[diablo3305]

My BI started about April 11. I remember because I was at the NSA for processing. Ive never been out of the US (sad, I know) and have no foreign ties of any kind. Hopefully, my BI will be done soon. ;)


Same here, mine started about the same time as yours. Have you heard anything from the FBI recently? Any contact? I haven't even been contacted by an analyst, which I thought I was told would happen. No questions or anything. I hope mine is done soon. I have to start classes in about a week :(

[bad_timing]

Same here, mine started about the same time as yours. Have you heard anything from the FBI recently? Any contact? I haven't even been contacted by an analyst, which I thought I was told would happen. No questions or anything. I hope mine is done soon. I have to start classes in about a week :(

Have you thought of giving them a call? Especially since it has been so long between contacts.

[diablo3305]

Have you thought of giving them a call? Especially since it has been so long between contacts.


yea, i have called and left messages. The HR specialist with my case doesn't return my calls. I am sure she is busy. Once I caught her in the office, but usually it just goes to her voicemail.

[kgille2]

I usually call the HR rep every 3 weeks to check the status, sometimes I get her sometimes I dont, I wonder if we have the same one. Last week I was contacted by an SA stating that they needed verfication that I was current on a credit card.

[OhioLaw]

Darkstar.. you might want to stick w/ the SA app. It may take them 18-24 months to get you in to test for Phase 1. When I went in June, my app was the youngest @ 14 months... others were 24+months old! (No wonder why some of them came in late for the test)
I think they must have sped things up since then. I applied in March and am scheduled to take P1 on Aug 29th. I plan on calling them later today and saying that I decided not to take it though.

[tdstolz]

AWESOME... Score another one for the good guys [& gals]
Lotto Winners to date: Sigepufou, tdstolz, julieann1270, any others?

Not a winner yet, but thanks for the vote of confidence! I'm just past the four-month mark myself and hope for my EOD any day now...

[diablo3305]

I usually call the HR rep every 3 weeks to check the status, sometimes I get her sometimes I dont, I wonder if we have the same one. Last week I was contacted by an SA stating that they needed verfication that I was current on a credit card.


I call occasionally to get a status update. I don't want to be a pest or bother her, but I certainly am curious to how my application is proceeding. I just called and left a message, but normally they don't return my calls. Like I said, don't want to be a pest and possibly hurt my chances in any way. Oh well, ill continue waiting. Its just frustrating with school coming up because I really want to hear something so I can drop my classes.

[VA Man]

[QUOTE=GTgrad02]VA Man: I hate to answer a ? with another ? ... but how did they treat you after the poly? That's a good indicator, usually. I have to completely agree w/ Waiting-in-DC. I have heard that the examiner really determines if you passed or not. But the wigs in HQ want to certify their work.

Q: If the poly examiners @ the FO are competent enough to evaluate suspects in criminal cases independently, why can't they do the same for pre-employment?

I was lucky, I "knew" right away. The poly examiner was really tough as nails on the front end, but nice on the back end of it. She was exceptionally helpful immediately afterwards, getting me linked up w/ the security division for my PSI and the RN for my Urinalysis. I got all 3 same day w/o prior planning/communication between the parties. Thank goodness I asked her about the other 2 P's!!!!

Dialogue:

I have decided not to obsess over this. I have heard from a number of people that say they know afterwards and some that have said they felt like a serial murder suspect afterwards and passed. My examiner was no nonsense and engaged in a number of behaviors early on that I feel were specifically designed to increase my anxiety level. I am a psychologist who has studied interigation and investigative interviewing which included studying polygraph techniques. This has been an interest of mine for a long time--not an attempt to defeat a polygraph. I was upfront with the examiner about my prior knowledge of poly proceedures. Did this change his tactics? I don't know. I did get a lot of questions about whether I was trying to defeat the examination. He was cordial afterwards but I certainly didn't get any warm fuzzies. Anyway, I have concluded that I either flunked and I will get dropped or I will get retested if I was inconclusive. I am not going to sweat it because I have no control over it. For right now, no news is good news. I know that they were working on my BI before I had my PPP and they continue to interview people afterward. I will just have to wait and see.

[tdstolz]

Yeah, same here! I would choose the FBI over any agency actually. I guess I'm just really "brand loyal" which is why being so far in this process is (at the risk of sounding like a cheeseball) a dream come true. :)

I concur. While I have cast my net widely with other federal agencies and private sector firms as well, the FBI has always been my first choice. I think Director Mueller gets it regarding intelligence and its place in the FBI. That's not to say the development of the FBI's intel. cadre will be an easy road to hoe, but good things are rarely easy. Since the FBI is developing its intel. program, I think this is a tremendous opportunity to become a part of something truly extraordinary.

We all know about the FBI's difficulties regarding attrition. I think a lot of this will sort itself out over the next few years as the hiring process improves and other areas such as the training and retention of IAs improves as well. Quite honestly, I knocked on the FBI's doors because I am convinced my best work is with them. I have no doubt that this is the place where I want to spend the next 20 or 30 years. Apart from having a family and preparing for a truly life-changing move, this is why I am so eager to get to work and hope for "the call" ASAP.

[diablo3305]

I concur. While I have cast my net widely with other federal agencies and private sector firms as well, the FBI has always been my first choice. I think Director Mueller gets it regarding intelligence and its place in the FBI. That's not to say the development of the FBI's intel. cadre will be an easy road to hoe, but good things are rarely easy. Since the FBI is developing its intel. program, I think this is a tremendous opportunity to become a part of something truly extraordinary.

We all know about the FBI's difficulties regarding attrition. I think a lot of this will sort itself out over the next few years as the hiring process improves and other areas such as the training and retention of IAs improves as well. Quite honestly, I knocked on the FBI's doors because I am convinced my best work is with them. I have no doubt that this is the place where I want to spend the next 20 or 30 years. Apart from having a family and preparing for a truly life-changing move, this is why I am so eager to get to work and hope for "the call" ASAP.



I feel the same. This is a huge life changing event for me if it comes. It is the start of so many things, which is probably why I am so eager to find out whats going on with my application soon.

[electra1978]

I concur. While I have cast my net widely with other federal agencies and private sector firms as well, the FBI has always been my first choice. I think Director Mueller gets it regarding intelligence and its place in the FBI. That's not to say the development of the FBI's intel. cadre will be an easy road to hoe, but good things are rarely easy. Since the FBI is developing its intel. program, I think this is a tremendous opportunity to become a part of something truly extraordinary.

We all know about the FBI's difficulties regarding attrition. I think a lot of this will sort itself out over the next few years as the hiring process improves and other areas such as the training and retention of IAs improves as well. Quite honestly, I knocked on the FBI's doors because I am convinced my best work is with them. I have no doubt that this is the place where I want to spend the next 20 or 30 years. Apart from having a family and preparing for a truly life-changing move, this is why I am so eager to get to work and hope for "the call" ASAP.

That's exactly it. I really respect Director Mueller and believe he's steering the Bureau in the right direction. If and when I get hired, I can honestly say the Bureau has me for life...

[kgille2]

Hate to be a cliche, but I feel the same way. I am anxiously awaiting and hoping for a final offer call.

[OhioLaw]

[QUOTE=VA Man]
Anyway, I have concluded that I either flunked and I will get dropped or I will get retested if I was inconclusive. I am not going to sweat it because I have no control over it. [QUOTE]

I know a lot about the polygraph as well from a class I took in law school. I have some of the same worries as you, but I have not taken it yet. I took one for an undergrad psych. research class that was pretty odd. They made me watch videos of men making sexual advances to women in the workplace. Then they asked me questions about if I thought the people behaved ok.

Although I don't trust polygraphs, I have lived a clean life. I will just answer the questions honestly and trust the system.

[bad_timing]

I concur. While I have cast my net widely with other federal agencies and private sector firms as well, the FBI has always been my first choice. I think Director Mueller gets it regarding intelligence and its place in the FBI. That's not to say the development of the FBI's intel. cadre will be an easy road to hoe, but good things are rarely easy. Since the FBI is developing its intel. program, I think this is a tremendous opportunity to become a part of something truly extraordinary.

We all know about the FBI's difficulties regarding attrition. I think a lot of this will sort itself out over the next few years as the hiring process improves and other areas such as the training and retention of IAs improves as well. Quite honestly, I knocked on the FBI's doors because I am convinced my best work is with them. I have no doubt that this is the place where I want to spend the next 20 or 30 years. Apart from having a family and preparing for a truly life-changing move, this is why I am so eager to get to work and hope for "the call" ASAP.

I am more than willing to withdraw all of my apps. and pull out of the pipelines from the other agencies in which I applied if the FBI calls. I would be a "lifer" as well.

[JulieAnn1270]

Congrats!!! This is great news, I'm happy for you and never met ya!! How funny! Anyway, I think this is the tipping point of more good news to come for the rest of us.

Was Quantico, VA one of your choices and/or were you given choices when the FO was presented?
Hello - guess I'm about 5 pages behind, but here are some answers to earlier questions:

Regarding the FO choice question from Diablo: under the August announcement I believe I had selected no more than 2-3 field offices, Quantico being one of them. The group in Quantico contacted me on their own, and no discussion was ever initiated regarding other choices for field offices. I already work at Quantico as a contractor, so maybe my being local helped that out as well. I remember that August announcement ended up being cancelled, but I had already been interviewed and was in processing anyway - the SA I interviewed with asked me to reapply under an announcement sometime in March or April of 2005 just to be safe. I don't know if it made any difference.

Also, regarding the timeline, one year is completely normal for any bureau job, 1-1/2 even. Especially considering the number of applicants processing right now for these positions, so I don't think it was especially surprising, tdstolz. If you applied to the Aug announcement for specific field offices and never reapplied, you may not have been further processed because of the cancellation.

I had only been contacted by BI people verifying information or asking questions, but I also contacted the HR rep from the group hiring me (who was present at the interview), and she would call HQ from time to time when I asked to check on my status. That is the only way I got any updates, which didn't amount to much information. One thing you should all be aware of also is that my CO stated a pay amount of about 10k less than I make now - I negotiated it to be slightly above my current pay in the end, so be aware this is an option. I used the fact that they wouldn't have to pay me relocation expenses as leverage, but it only took a request from the hiring group to get it done.

Let me know if you have any more questions, and thanks for all the congratulations!! :)

[JulieAnn1270]

I posted on another thread but everyone seems to be here so I'll ask again.
How did you find out about your poly and drug screen and how long did it take? I had mine last week. I don't want to bug the HR person at the FO but I am very anxious, especially about the poly. Any help would be appreciated.
Again a late reply, but regarding results from the poly, they basically don't seem to tell you anything if you passed, only if the results are not good. The examiner told me that he thought I was "all right", and I never heard anything more until the verbal offer. So no news is good news...

[diablo3305]

Well my HR rep returned my call this morning. It was nice to hear from her. She said my BI should be almost done, they were just following up on a few more things. She put in a call to the analyst on my case to find out the status and would let me know from there. She told me that once its done it will be sent to HQ and someone from there will contact me about the final hiring decision(not her).

Hopefully this will all be winding down rather soon. I am very excited and apprehensive, I hope I am approved for hire.

[electra1978]

Well my HR rep returned my call this morning. It was nice to hear from her. She said my BI should be almost done, they were just following up on a few more things. She put in a call to the analyst on my case to find out the status and would let me know from there. She told me that once its done it will be sent to HQ and someone from there will contact me about the final hiring decision(not her).

Hopefully this will all be winding down rather soon. I am very excited and apprehensive, I hope I am approved for hire.

That's great! I'm sure you'll be approved for hire...

[tdstolz]

Also, regarding the timeline, one year is completely normal for any bureau job, 1-1/2 even. Especially considering the number of applicants processing right now for these positions, so I don't think it was especially surprising, tdstolz. If you applied to the Aug announcement for specific field offices and never reapplied, you may not have been further processed because of the cancellation.

I had only been contacted by BI people verifying information or asking questions, but I also contacted the HR rep from the group hiring me (who was present at the interview), and she would call HQ from time to time when I asked to check on my status. That is the only way I got any updates, which didn't amount to much information. One thing you should all be aware of also is that my CO stated a pay amount of about 10k less than I make now - I negotiated it to be slightly above my current pay in the end, so be aware this is an option. I used the fact that they wouldn't have to pay me relocation expenses as leverage, but it only took a request from the hiring group to get it done.

Let me know if you have any more questions, and thanks for all the congratulations!! :)

Thanks for your note. The Aug. 2004 announcement to which I applied (HQ-2004-0026) was for HQ, not a FO. I don't know if it was ever cancelled--on my application status page it says, "Application receieved," while a lot of other FO vacancies from last year say, "Vacancy has been cancelled." At any rate, it didn't go anywhere.

The position for which I am currently in the pipeline is one from Feb. 2005. Considering the pressure the FBI is under to get us on board--especially in the light of the most recent criticism of Director Mueller--I simply cannot imagine anyone waiting for a year or more. Well, I can imagine it, I suppose, but it seems totally counterproductive. The FBI has spent quite a lot of money on all of us already, they need lots of people on board, the fiscal year is almost over, etc. The recent DOJ audit has a survey of IAs, and according to it (if my memory serves) more then 50% of IAs were on four months (where I am) after receiving their COs. I think 76% were on by the six month mark.

Also, you mentioned an HR rep. from the group hiring you. I am unfamiliar with this. No such person was present at my interview. My only official contact (apart from speaking with a few investigators) has been my contact at the FO. Is there someone else with whom I should be in touch? Thanks!

[GTgrad02]

Hey all, I stumbled across an intersting factoid: I believe all the FOs have a website! Each website may have the Applicant coordinators names / POCs, Staffing Assistants' POCs, etc. Check it out:

http://atlanta.fbi.gov/ ; http://indianapolis.fbi.gov/ ; http://sanfrancisco.fbi.gov/ ; birmingham.fbi.gov (http://birmingham.fbi.gov) ; ETC...

check this one out too, if you don't already have the # to your FO:

http://www.iacsp.com/emerg_cont.html

For those who don't know who to contact, here are some tips. Each FO should have an Applicant Coordinator / Recruiter. Here @ my FO, the AC likes to stick w/ SA apps. Though they are technically the AC, they may have others handling "support staff" processing. The Administrative Officer (or AO) and the Staffing Assistants may be handling much of the work on our intel apps (like here in Hotlanta), as well as any additional testing (i.e. languages). So those are the "types" of folks you can be asking for if you don't already have a point of contact...

Some here have said they keep trying to reach an HR Contact. I understood that to mean you are calling the Staffing Unit contact on the vacancy announcement, and they have never returned any of my calls. Maybe this will help some find a POC in ther own area, if necessary, that can help them

[GTgrad02]

And the FBI is heading towards pay banding for IAs, so you may be back in a pay banding system before long...

the pin-head in the Administrative Services Division would only consider base pay, which resulted in the highly qualified candidate taking a job in the private sector. Big loss for the FBI.

Pay banding is not necessarily a bad thing... but what my agency has done with it was horrendous. In fact, generally, feds in banded systems average more than their counterparts in the GS system. (ref: Fed Wage Comparison Charts (http://www.opm.gov/feddata/html/paystructure/2004/index.asp)) I have been told the banding systems give HR Specialists more leeway in determing appropriate salaries (both ways, I'm sure). But hey, I just work here. It worked out well for me, though. I started as an SV-G (GS-9 equivalent, roughly) @ 23 y.o. in a Supervisory role right off the starting block (college). But the majority of my cohorts were really reamed.

Pin-head is right! Apparently the pin-head had aspirations to be an IRS Agent, vs/ FBI HR Specialist!!! We have a lot of those "double-dippers" around. Not bad for them or their agency! With all that $ rolling in, they may be less likely to be coerced or compromised.

[JulieAnn1270]

Well my HR rep returned my call this morning. It was nice to hear from her. She said my BI should be almost done, they were just following up on a few more things. She put in a call to the analyst on my case to find out the status and would let me know from there. She told me that once its done it will be sent to HQ and someone from there will contact me about the final hiring decision(not her).

Hopefully this will all be winding down rather soon. I am very excited and apprehensive, I hope I am approved for hire.
Wonderful - it should only be within 2-3 weeks after submission that you hear. I hope it comes through soon for you!

[JulieAnn1270]

Thanks for your note. The Aug. 2004 announcement to which I applied (HQ-2004-0026) was for HQ, not a FO. I don't know if it was ever cancelled--on my application status page it says, "Application receieved," while a lot of other FO vacancies from last year say, "Vacancy has been cancelled." At any rate, it didn't go anywhere.

The position for which I am currently in the pipeline is one from Feb. 2005. Considering the pressure the FBI is under to get us on board--especially in the light of the most recent criticism of Director Mueller--I simply cannot imagine anyone waiting for a year or more. Well, I can imagine it, I suppose, but it seems totally counterproductive. The FBI has spent quite a lot of money on all of us already, they need lots of people on board, the fiscal year is almost over, etc. The recent DOJ audit has a survey of IAs, and according to it (if my memory serves) more then 50% of IAs were on four months (where I am) after receiving their COs. I think 76% were on by the six month mark.

Also, you mentioned an HR rep. from the group hiring you. I am unfamiliar with this. No such person was present at my interview. My only official contact (apart from speaking with a few investigators) has been my contact at the FO. Is there someone else with whom I should be in touch? Thanks!
About the HR rep being at the interview, I think she facilitated my hiring as kind of a liaison between HRT and HQ, but I'm not entirely sure what her role was in the hiring process. Whenever I asked about my status, I would e-mail her and she would contact HR at HQ, so she may have not had much power except as an on-site rep for HRT who forwards requests and information to HQ.

Since HRT is kind of a special unit under HQ and not considered a Field Office, I'm sure things with them work a bit differently. I got her name and contact info after meeting her in the interview through the Special Agent who initially contacted me for the interview, so I guess I just got lucky to have someone that would pass on my questions and check my file throughout the process. I never had any direct contact with a HQ rep and my BI processing was done in Richmond, VA. There were at least 5-6 different people calling me with questions between March and July, so it was confusing and I never really knew who was in charge of what... I guess that doesn't help much, does it.....

[tdstolz]

About the HR rep being at the interview, I think she facilitated my hiring as kind of a liaison between HRT and HQ, but I'm not entirely sure what her role was in the hiring process. Whenever I asked about my status, I would e-mail her and she would contact HR at HQ, so she may have not had much power except as an on-site rep for HRT who forwards requests and information to HQ.

Since HRT is kind of a special unit under HQ and not considered a Field Office, I'm sure things with them work a bit differently. I got her name and contact info after meeting her in the interview through the Special Agent who initially contacted me for the interview, so I guess I just got lucky to have someone that would pass on my questions and check my file throughout the process. I never had any direct contact with a HQ rep and my BI processing was done in Richmond, VA. There were at least 5-6 different people calling me with questions between March and July, so it was confusing and I never really knew who was in charge of what... I guess that doesn't help much, does it.....

No, not really. But thanks anyway! You mentioned to someone else that when his/her case gets to HQ for adjudication, clearance/final offer can come between two to three weeks. I'm not sure how long it takes for someone to get to someone's case when it does hit an analyst's desk, but when it does, is the turnaround usually that quick?

I'm still in adjudication, since the beginning of July. At the end of July, my AC told me that someone at HQ had a question about a credit card I paid off six years ago. No big deal, nothing to worry about she told me. I gave her some info. she thought might be helpful in case it's requested. The point is that someone seems to be looking at my case, since at least a couple of weeks ago. So I hope that means I'm almost through!

[kgille2]

I had a SA call me from what I believe is the Washington DC field office or HQ, Im not sure it was a 202 area code. If I dont here from anyone by October, I guess I'll call the HR rep again.

[JulieAnn1270]

Thanks for your note. The Aug. 2004 announcement to which I applied (HQ-2004-0026) was for HQ, not a FO. I don't know if it was ever cancelled--on my application status page it says, "Application receieved," while a lot of other FO vacancies from last year say, "Vacancy has been cancelled." At any rate, it didn't go anywhere.

The position for which I am currently in the pipeline is one from Feb. 2005. Considering the pressure the FBI is under to get us on board--especially in the light of the most recent criticism of Director Mueller--I simply cannot imagine anyone waiting for a year or more. Well, I can imagine it, I suppose, but it seems totally counterproductive. The FBI has spent quite a lot of money on all of us already, they need lots of people on board, the fiscal year is almost over, etc. The recent DOJ audit has a survey of IAs, and according to it (if my memory serves) more then 50% of IAs were on four months (where I am) after receiving their COs. I think 76% were on by the six month mark.

Also, you mentioned an HR rep. from the group hiring you. I am unfamiliar with this. No such person was present at my interview. My only official contact (apart from speaking with a few investigators) has been my contact at the FO. Is there someone else with whom I should be in touch? Thanks!
One more thing about the hiring process timeline -

I was told several times during my "waiting period" that HQ was changing procedures on some step of the hiring process, which I'm sure delayed things at times. In addition, at one point they were moving their offices which further delayed my processing by a good week or two. Basically, while the FBI is trying to improve and streamline hiring IAs, in the meantime they are actually making the process slower when implementing these continuous new changes.

At the Bureau facility where I currently work, I have heard absolute horror stories of technical managers trying to hire people for YEARS, sometimes being 3/4 of the way along in hiring somebody. only to be told that the procedures are changing and they have to start completely over with a new announcement! Everybody just has to be completely flexible and patient, and also watch the announcements and reapply to any that come out to ensure they don't fall through the cracks. That August announcement that I initially applied to still says "Referred to Selecting Official" and has never changed, even though it was cancelled and superseded by another in Feb 2005, so you never know. Just hang in there and keep an eye on things - eventually you have to hear something!

[electra1978]

Hey guys. I started a thread about this in the New Forum, but at 3 p.m. ET, The Situation Room on CNN will be broadcasting live from Quantico discussing the future of Special Agents in the Bureau. I asked if anyone happens to see it, to post their thoughts and opinions...

[tdstolz]

At the Bureau facility where I currently work, I have heard absolute horror stories of technical managers trying to hire people for YEARS, sometimes being 3/4 of the way along in hiring somebody. only to be told that the procedures are changing and they have to start completely over with a new announcement! Everybody just has to be completely flexible and patient, and also watch the announcements and reapply to any that come out to ensure they don't fall through the cracks. That August announcement that I initially applied to still says "Referred to Selecting Official" and has never changed, even though it was cancelled and superseded by another in Feb 2005, so you never know. Just hang in there and keep an eye on things - eventually you have to hear something!

So the position for which you received your final offer was for the Feb. 2005 vacancy announcement (HQ-2005-0008)? That's mine, too. At least a couple of people on this list have gotten their final offers from this announcement quite recently. So I'll keep hanging in there...

[JulieAnn1270]

So the position for which you received your final offer was for the Feb. 2005 vacancy announcement (HQ-2005-0008)? That's mine, too. At least a couple of people on this list have gotten their final offers from this announcement quite recently. So I'll keep hanging in there...

Honestly, I have no idea which announcement I was hired under, but it could have worked out that way... who knows! :rolleyes:

[tdstolz]

Honestly, I have no idea which announcement I was hired under, but it could have worked out that way... who knows! :rolleyes:

Indeed. I asked because you said that the Aug. 2004 announcement was cancelled and superseded by the one from Feb. 2005 (HQ-2005-0008). I applied to both, but interviewed and got a CO for the latter. Thanks!

[VA Man]

Has anyone else gotten as far as having had their PPP and their BI started without a CO? I interviewed in June and finished my PPP in August. I started in the B'Ham FO (Interview) then got shifted to Mobile because I live in Dothan, AL. My past experience with HR in B'Ham is that things often slip through the cracks and I wonder if I should contact my HR person about not receiving a CO.
Comments?

[OrangeAlum2003]

Has anyone else gotten as far as having had their PPP and their BI started without a CO? I interviewed in June and finished my PPP in August. I started in the B'Ham FO (Interview) then got shifted to Mobile because I live in Dothan, AL. My past experience with HR in B'Ham is that things often slip through the cracks and I wonder if I should contact my HR person about not receiving a CO.
Comments?

My bet is that a CO is assumed or forthcoming. They wouldn't spend the money to start your background and do a polygraph if they weren't going to give you a CO. My FO, on the other hand, seems to be relatively hip to the game. I received a CO verbally from a woman at HQ last Saturday. Yesterday in the mail I received a written CO reiterating what I was told on the phone. The written CO, however, came from my local FO. They must have gotten a response from HQ to go ahead and begin processing me. I've already had my PSI and drug test and poly are tomorrow.

Question for anyone who might know: My CO is a GS-11 step 1. This is what it says on my written offer. The letter asks that I contact them within 24 hours of receipt to indicate my intentions. That said I've already begun the background process. When is the optimum time to negotiate a step increase? Should I make the request when I "officially" accept the CO, or should I wait for a final offer? Also, when is the best time to bring up the 10K bonus? I'm thinking sooner than later is better.

[anwalt]

My bet is that a CO is assumed or forthcoming. They wouldn't spend the money to start your background and do a polygraph if they weren't going to give you a CO. My FO, on the other hand, seems to be relatively hip to the game. I received a CO verbally from a woman at HQ last Saturday. Yesterday in the mail I received a written CO reiterating what I was told on the phone. The written CO, however, came from my local FO. They must have gotten a response from HQ to go ahead and begin processing me. I've already had my PSI and drug test and poly are tomorrow.

Question for anyone who might know: My CO is a GS-11 step 1. This is what it says on my written offer. The letter asks that I contact them within 24 hours of receipt to indicate my intentions. That said I've already begun the background process. When is the optimum time to negotiate a step increase? Should I make the request when I "officially" accept the CO, or should I wait for a final offer? Also, when is the best time to bring up the 10K bonus? I'm thinking sooner than later is better.


When I received my CO phone call for a GS-11 slot, I asked whether 11 was as high as the Bureau was willing to go or if a 12 might be in the cards (phrased a bit differently, of course). She replied that an 11 was the offer, no higher. I said forget it then . . . actually, I probably groveled a bit and apologized for even daring to ask. I also asked about the bonus. Her answer: A definite possibility so long as the section/subject area I'm assigned to is considered "critical."

If the FO ever comes in I will ask to be considered for a step above "1." The pay is a bit of a cut and the livin' in D.C is rather pricey, after all.

[GTgrad02]

Wonderful - it should only be within 2-3 weeks after submission that you hear. I hope it comes through soon for you!

That ROCKS! It is so exciting to see good stuff happening, albeit slow, but moving! I expect to hear in 2-4 weeks too, just from what I can make of the process. My BI is squeaky clean, so I know it's going to breeze by.

[GTgrad02]

I had a SA call me from what I believe is the Washington DC field office or HQ, Im not sure it was a 202 area code. If I dont here from anyone by October, I guess I'll call the HR rep again.

Did they leave a msg/name/etc.? Did you try returning the call?

[GTgrad02]

Has anyone else gotten as far as having had their PPP and their BI started without a CO? I interviewed in June and finished my PPP in August. I started in the B'Ham FO (Interview) then got shifted to Mobile because I live in Dothan, AL. My past experience with HR in B'Ham is that things often slip through the cracks and I wonder if I should contact my HR person about not receiving a CO.
Comments?

That sounds unusual to me, but then again, what has been normal? They do what they can, when they can, how they can. I would recommend you call your Applicant Coord. or local Admin Officer to find out. They have a database w/ all our info in it. Anyone with access to the system can tell you what your status is. I had the Admin O's Secretary find out for me, once. She wound up being the one who faxed me the invite to interview...

By the way... I went ahead and started a new thread so we know where to go when we get booted again!
New IA Thread!!! #14 (http://www.911jobforums.com/vB/showthread.php3?p=364183#post364183)
We're getting close to the magic #... :-) AGAIN!

[GTgrad02]

Question for anyone who might know: My CO is a GS-11 step 1. This is what it says on my written offer. The letter asks that I contact them within 24 hours of receipt to indicate my intentions. That said I've already begun the background process. When is the optimum time to negotiate a step increase? Should I make the request when I "officially" accept the CO, or should I wait for a final offer? Also, when is the best time to bring up the 10K bonus? I'm thinking sooner than later is better.

GS-11... lucky!!! From what I understand, they only want you to tell them ASAP (24 hours) if you DONT want the offer... Like anyone here would do that! I asked that exact question, and got that answer. I think the previous posts have indicated that the FO is the time to negotiate $.

...Anticipating in Atlanta

[CPD-Dispatcher]

Once again this thread has grown large, and thus is now closed.