3,000 most wanted to fill jobs in the FBI

Published on Wednesday 7 January 2009 20:57

THESE might be harsh times in the jobs market, but it seems there is still plenty of work for people who can provide their own dark suits and sunglasses.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States's famed law enforcement agency, is seeking to fill thousands of posts as it embarks on the biggest recruitment drive in its 101-year history.

The vacancies include 850 special agents, a role glamorised by hit TV shows such as The X-Files and Without a Trace, and the Oscar-winning film Silence of the Lambs.

There are a further 2,100 "professional staff positions" available behind the scenes: jobs include intelligence analysts, fingerprint experts, language specialists and electronics technicians, presumably for help with wire-tapping and other hi-tech eavesdropping.

"Your country needs you," said Richard Kolko, the FBI's chief spokesman. "This is a great time to apply for a great job."

Perks include healthcare benefits and up to five weeks' annual holiday. However, the job description makes no mention of dark glasses, trenchcoats or trilby hats, favoured by James Cagney's gangster-chasing federal agent in the 1935 film G-Men, which gave FBI agents their nickname.

FBI officials say the hiring blitz is necessary to counter new threats to internal security, especially from cyber crime, domestic terrorism and blue-collar criminals. Applicants with language skills and computer expertise will be welcome.

"We're looking for professionals in a wide variety of fields who have a deep desire to help protect our nation from terrorists, spies, and others who wish us harm," said John Raucci, the assistant director of the FBI's human resources division.

Applicants, who must be US citizens and pass extensive background screening including interviews with family, friends and former colleagues, will be expected to uphold the agency's motto of fidelity, bravery and integrity.