The FBI first opened their main office in Jackson, Mississippi in 1941, but a decline in caseload after the end of World War II led to its closure in 1946. Since reopening in 1964, however, the FBI has had a strong presence in Mississippi. There are now seven satellite offices, or resident agencies, located across the state in addition to its main Jackson office that all work together to investigate crime and enforce federal laws.
The FBI is continuously looking for future agents who display strong skills in collaboration, communication, leadership, adaptability, initiative, organization and problem solving. Becoming an FBI agent is an arduous yet honorable endeavor that leads to an exciting job where no two days are ever the same. If you think this is the kind of job for you, keep reading to find out how you can become an FBI agent in Mississippi.
FBI Agent Requirements in Mississippi
Basic Requirements:
- Age: You must be between the ages of 23 and 37 years old when applying. If you turn 37 before you complete the hiring process, you must submit an age waiver.
- Degree: The FBI requires that you obtain at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
- Experience: You need at least three years of relevant work experience.
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen or a citizen of a U.S. territory.
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Additional Requirements:
- You must have a valid U.S. driver’s license.
- You need to be able to pass the FBI background check and drug test.
- Make sure you can meet the FBI physical fitness standards and medical requirements.
- You must be willing to work anywhere within FBI jurisdiction.
Application Process
In order to become an FBI agent in Mississippi, the first step is to apply online for the position. Next, you’ll be required to take a three hour cognitive, behavioral and reasoning exam. If you make it through this initial screening process, you’ll be invited to a meet and greet at the Jackson field office. Then you will take a 90 minute written exam and participate in a one hour interview panel.
Once you pass these requirements, you’ll receive a Conditional Job Offer. Now it’s time for the physical fitness test, background investigation, and basic field training in Quantico, Virginia. This Basic Field Training Course lasts 21 weeks, and completing every portion of the course means that you are now a probationary special agent for the FBI. You’ll report to your assigned field office for duty where your first 18 months will consist of probationary hands-on experience as an agent.
Mississippi FBI Agent Education
FBI agents may receive degrees from a variety of fields including accounting and finance, foreign languages, computer science and forensics, and psychology. However, one of the most helpful degrees to obtain if you know you’re interested in becoming an FBI agent is criminal justice or criminology.
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Major Cities in Mississippi
- Jackson, Mississippi is the state capital and home to the state’s main FBI office.
- Gulfport is home to one of the state’s FBI satellite offices, or resident agencies, and was one of the major cities hit by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
- Hattiesburg, home to another of the state’s FBI resident agencies, has a history rich in culture, being first inhabited by the Choctaw Native Americans and later being a major center for the 960’s Civil Rights Movement.
What Does an FBI Agent do in Mississippi?
FBI agents in Mississippi are ultimately responsible for keeping their fellow citizens safe from harm. This involves a wide variety of activities, including assisting those who were affected in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Common duties include:
- Investigating cybercrime, fraud and other high-profile crimes
- Participating in surveillance, undercover operations, raids and arrests
- Counterterrorism and counterintelligence efforts
- Testifying in court
Mississippi FBI Agent Salary
The pay scale of the federal government’s General Schedule is used to calculate the salary of FBI agents. FBI agent trainees generally begin at GS-10, step 1, which earns a base salary of $47,158 per year.
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Choose your area of study and receive free information about programs you are interested in. FBI agents are dedicated to America’s defense and security. There are a number of careers you can pursue within the FBI with current activities focusing heavily on anit-terrorism. No matter which career you pursue becoming an FBI agent requires deep commitment and dedication. Request information from multiple schools to find the best program and educational opportunity for you!