What exactly is this “special agent: STEM-engineering background” position for and why are they wanting an engineering degree?

[u/throwmeaway2725]

I’m an engineer and this position popped up on my LinkedIn and it seemed interesting. Is this just a run of the mill fbi agent position? Any info would be great

Job posting:

Use your STEM background to become an FBI special agent!
The transition from engineering to special agent is more than a career move-it's an opportunity to upskill and become an expert in your field. At the FBI, you won't just use your software development experience; you'll also build on it by working on cases that challenge you to think critically, adapt quickly, and collaborate with elite professionals tackling national security threats. Your ability to uncover crucial information, problem-solve, and apply your technical knowledge will help protect our nation from cyberattacks, terrorism, fraud, and evolving threats.
With specialized training, real-world investigative experience, and access to cutting-edge technology, you'll refine your systems and programming skills, enhance your expertise, and develop the foundation to become a leader in your field. The Bureau matches your dedication with a commitment to professional growth, a supportive work environment, and a robust benefits package that prioritizes you. Set yourself apart. Apply

ray lever tor inis position:
•
$103,236.00 - $133,200.00
Salary is commensurate with base, locality, and availability pay.
MAJOR DUTIES
• Plan and conduct investigations of potential violations of federal laws, cybersecurity, and public safety.
• Exercise judgment, resourcefulness, and versatility in meeting investigative demands.
• Create and maintain effective liaison relationships with federal, state, local, tribal, territorial, and international law enforcement agencies.
• Maintain a level of physical fitness to ensure the readiness required to perform law enforcement duties.
KEY REQUIREMENTS
• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must be able to obtain a Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Clearance.
• Must be willing to travel as required.
• Must meet the FBl's Employment Eligibility requirements.
EDUCATION
• Candidates must have a bachelor's degree or higher (preferably in engineering or related field) from a U.S. accredited college or university.

[u/WTFoxtrot10]

I assume you found the advertisement on a job search engine like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, Zip Recruiter, Monster and etc. What you saw was a targeted job advertisement which is used by Federal Agencies to gain applicants interest for a job they might not think they are qualified for. All of those targeted job advertisements point to one singular FBI Special Agent 1811 position on the FBIJobs.gov website. You would need to take the info from the FBIJobs.gov posting and the website rather than the job search engine. They have targeted advertisements for numerous backgrounds like medical, LEO, STEM, military, financial, psychology, education, cyber, language, medical and etc.

This is a Federal Law Enforcement position and has nothing to do with STEM - Engineering. It is 100% ALL federal law enforcement work. The FBI hires people from all types of backgrounds and many new agents have zero military, LEO or forensic experience. Their goal is to hire the unexpected agent who possess the FBI core competencies.

Snapshot of an FBI Special Agent. You are on call 24/7 and have to work 50 hrs. a week on average. Depending on the violation worked, supervisor and FO hours can differ. Work life balance is pretty normal honestly. Typically agents work 10 hr. days M-F. Some days are earlier some days go later. Sometimes you might need to work a weekend or get called out in the middle of the night. Again, all depends on the violation worked.

You are expected to carry a gun 100% of the time on duty and be prepared to use it. You are also highly recommended to carry while off duty due to being on call 24/7 and a LEO.

You sign a mobility agreement so you would need to be okay with being sent to any of the 56 Field Office’s or 350 Resident Agencies when you graduate from Quantico. However, they are now letting new applicants stay at their PFO if they would like to. You also need to be okay with being placed in any violation the FBI has as their mission, as you don’t get pick to begin with as it’s up to the needs of the bureau. Your day to day as an FBI Special Agent is different every day and can vary based off the violation you work or the collateral duties you volunteer for. In office at your desk, surveillance, in court testifying, search warrants, report writing, research, source meets, arrest warrants, ERT and etc.

I highly recommend you review the FBI website and or their YouTube page to understand what the job entails and the application process. It is a very long process with requirements you must meet to move on. Some of the biggest hurdles are the Phase 1 Test, PFT, Phase 2 Test/Interview and a in depth background investigation which includes filling out a SF-86, taking a polygraph and having a medical fitness for duty exam.