Supervisory Criminal Investigator (ASAC) for Computer Crimes (Direct-Hire) Job in District of Columbia, DC

Vacancy No. JI-3-2025-0008 Department Office of Inspector General
Salary $142,488.00 to $185,234.00 Grade 14 to 14
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 8/1/2025 Close Date 8/15/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
District of Columbia, DC


Summary

The Office of Inspector General (OIG), works within the U. S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to promote efficiency and effectiveness, and prevent or stop waste, fraud and abuse in departmental programs. OIG also consults with the Congress about programs in progress and proposed new laws and regulations. The Inspector General Act of 1978 gives the Office of Inspector General autonomy to do its work without interference.

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

This position is being advertised under Direct-Hire Authority. Under this authority, competitive rating, ranking and veterans' preference procedures do not apply.

Duties

The incumbent serves as a principal advisor to the Special Agent-in-Charge with responsibility for directing a staff of experts (located at Headquarters and various field locations), in the field of computer forensics and specialized computer related investigations pursuant to Federal statutes, DOT directives, and general office instructions within the specific geographic and functional areas assigned.

Provides direct computer expertise and support to field agents engaged in the application of automated techniques to investigations and the search/seizure of computer evidence. Serves as a lead resource on computer-related investigative and analysis techniques, which includes all types of computers and computer networks.

Provides expert forensic support through the scientific analysis of evidence. Conducts computer forensic examinations that are consistent with those standards established by DOT-OIG and the Department of Justice, as well as reflective of current trends and techniques within the law enforcement and professional communities. This may include the testing and validation of forensic software and other appropriate automated analytical tools to meet diverse investigative requirements.

Serves as a technical expert regarding crime scene searches concerning electronic evidence. Participates with DOT-OIG field agents and management to develop investigative plans and present investigative options and parameters as they relate to computer resources and technique s.

Analyzes preliminary and final investigative reports to ensure compliance with investigative directives, standards, and guidelines. Presents oral briefs to U.S. Attorneys and directs subordinates in assembling and presenting evidence for subsequent prosecution. Ensures the accuracy of information entered by subordinates into the case management system as well as the information contained in reports of investigation. Testifies before grand juries, courts, and/or in administrative hearings.

Oversees investigations into difficult, complex, technical, and sensitive investigations involving computer and computerized evidence which may be national in scope. These investigations may include complex networking and communications problems and legal issues, which may require law enforcement and civilian cooperation nationwide.

Plans, organizes, conducts or coordinates complex investigations into intrusions of DOT systems or situations where a computer or other electronic device is used as a tool in the commission of a crime. Designs and implements intrusion detection and analysis tools. Uses automated methods to recover evidentiary data from network-based systems penetrated by unauthorized parties.

Plans and conducts interviews with suspects, witnesses, and informants during case development. Often analyzes evidence provided by investigators stationed in multiple regions throughout the nation.

Develops and presents evidence that reconstructs events, sequences and time elements; and establishes relationships, responsibilities, legal liabilities, and conflicts of interest in a manner that meets requirements for presentation in various legal hearings and court proceedings.

Testifies before grand juries, in courts of law, or at administrative hearings in support of forensic examinations, expert opinions, or other investigative matters. Serves as an expert witness in computer forensic examination procedures and outcomes.

Analyzes criminal complaints and allegations to determine certain patterns and trends of these criminal acts and recommends appropriate action to be taken.

Ensures investigations are handled with tact and discretion since the principal suspects may be officials in governmental units or private enterprise and premature public disclosure of evidence could impede the investigations or unjustly affect the reputation of innocent persons.

Provides computer program analysis and some programming support for extremely difficult, complex, and sensitive criminal investigations affecting DOT. These investigations frequently involve obscure programming methodologies or highly sensitive matters within DOT.

Provides professional leadership and technical and administrative supervision to staff located at Headquarters and various field locations. Gives advice, counsel, or instruction to individual employees on both work and administrative matters; interviews candidates for positions; makes recommendations for appointment, promotion, or reassignment; hears and resolves complaints; effects disciplinary measures; identifies developmental and training needs for staff; and evaluates performance.

Establishes and maintains liaison with program and administrative officials from a variety of Federal, state, and local law enforcement 

Participates in the regional annual planning strategy consistent with the national plan and ensures compliance among regional and national plans.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • U.S. Citizen
  • Pre-employment drug testing and physical examination are required
  • You must meet the specialized experience to qualify
  • Successful completion of a background security investigation
  • Must possess and maintain a valid state DL to operate a motor vehicle
  • Required documents must be submitted by the closing date
  • Submit application and resume online by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

  • Selectee must relocate and fully reside within 60 miles from the regional office by the official start date.
  • SELECTIVE SERVICE: Males Born after 12-31-1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: A background security investigation is required for all selected individuals. Appointment will be subject to the applicant’s successful completion of the security investigation and favorable adjudication. Failure to meet these requirements will be grounds for termination.
  • PRE-EMPLOYMENT MEDICAL AND DRUG TESTING: Tentatively selected candidates are required to successfully complete a pre-employment medical examination and undergo urinalysis in accordance with DOT 3910.1D entitled "Drug and Alcohol-Free Departmental Workplace", which includes testing for marijuana. Marijuana is legal in some states, however it’s still illegal at the federal level. Therefore, if selected for the position you will be required to submit to a pre-employment/pre-appointment drug test, you will also be subject to Random Drug Testing.
  • TIME-IN-GRADE: Federal applicants must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade to satisfy time-in-grade restrictions contained in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F. 

(continued under 'Other Information')

Qualifications

Candidates must have one (1) year of specialized experience at least equivalent to the GS-13 grade level in the federal service. Non-government experience should be of similar complexity.

Examples of specialized experience includes:

  • Leading and/or supervising others
  • Experience in performing digital evidence forensics and data analysis in support of a larger program fraud investigations.
  • Experience in planning, implementing, and guiding national Information Technology crimes and forensic digital evidence analysis programs.
  • Experience conducting cyber (network intrusion) criminal investigations that includes performing digital forensics in support of those investigations.
Applicants must meet qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Additional information

Conditions of Employment Continued:

Applicants must not turn 37 years of age before 30 days after the closing date of this announcement. If you are age 37 through 56 you must be eligible to retire at age 57 with 20 years of covered law enforcement service.

All qualified veterans preference eligibles may apply and be considered for this vacancy regardless of whether they meet the maximum age requirements identified at 5 U.S.C 3307.


You will be required to satisfactorily complete the criminal investigator training course at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center.

Applicants who have successfully completed the basic Criminal Investigator Training Program at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center or its equivalent will be given higher consideration for this position.

You will be required to qualify and maintain qualification to carry and use government-owned firearms. You are ineligible for this position if you have been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, unless the conviction was expunged, set aside, or you received a pardon. In most jurisdictions, you must be at least 21 years of age to carry a firearm.
This position is eligible for Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP).

Preference Eligibles or veterans who have been separated from the armed forces under honorable conditions after substantially completing an initial three-year term may apply under the Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA).

This is a primary position that meets the early law enforcement retirement provisions of both the Civil Service and the Federal Employees Retirement Systems.

You will be subject to favorable adjudication of an employment suitability determination. Best qualified candidates will be responsible for arranging and paying for their own travel expenses in conjunction with any required interviews, unless they are already employed by the Office of Inspector General at the U. S. Department of Transportation.

THIS AGENCY PROVIDES REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS TO APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES. IF YOU NEED A REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION FOR ANY PART OF THE APPLICATION AND HIRING PROCESS, PLEASE NOTIFY THE AGENCY. THE DECISION ON GRANTING REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS WILL BE ON A CASE-BY-CASE BASIS. ALL APPLICANTS WILL RECEIVE CONSIDERATION REGARDLESS OF RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, GENDER, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, POLITICAL AFFILIATION, UNION AFFILIATION OR NON AFFILIATION, MARITAL STATUS, NON- DISQUALIFYING PHYSICAL HANDICAP, OR ANY OTHER NON-MERIT REASON. THE OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL (OIG), U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOT) IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

It is the policy of the Government not to deny employment simply because an individual has been unemployed or to find an individual unqualified, unsuitable, or unfit for employment based upon financial difficulties that have arisen through no fault of the individual. Information about an individual's employment experience should be used only to determine the person's qualifications and to assess his or her relative level of knowledge, skills, and abilities. Although an individual's personal conduct may be relevant in any employment decision, including conduct during periods of unemployment or evidence of dishonesty in handling financial matters, financial difficulty that has arisen through no fault of the individual will generally not itself be the basis of unfavorable suitability or fitness determination.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Applicants will be rated on the extent and quality of experience, education, and training relevant to the duties of the position. Applicants who meet the qualification requirements will be further evaluated on their responses to the on-line announcement questions.

Eligible applicants will receive a numerical rating based on their responses to the application questions for this position submitted on-line via WWW.USAJOBS.GOV. These responses must be substantiated by your on-line resume. Applicants who do not respond to the application questions may be rated ineligible.

Federal employees must meet Time-In-Grade (TIG) requirements for merit promotion consideration. TIG is the 52-week requirement Federal employees in competitive service, General Schedule (GS) positions at GS-5 and above must serve before they are eligible for promotion to the next grade level. TIG requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement.
You may preview questions for this vacancy.

Required Documents

Resume: Your resume must support the specialized experience described in this announcement.

If your resume includes a photograph or other inappropriate material or content, it will not be used to make eligibility and qualification determinations and you may not be considered for this vacancy.

For qualifications determinations your resume must contain hours worked per week and the dates of employment (i.e., HRS per week and month/year to month/year or month/year to present). If your resume does not contain this information, your application may be marked as incomplete and you may not receive consideration for this position.


For additional information see:


Merit Promotion - All current Federal employees must submit a recent Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50) documenting proof of competitive status, tenure, current grade level and full performance level of the position held.  All reinstatement eligibles/former Federal employees must submit a SF-50 documenting proof of competitive status, tenure, grade level and full performance level of the position.  

Non-competitive eligibles - must submit proof of eligibility (i.e., SF-50 documenting the full performance level of a position held on a permanent basis).

DD-214 and/or SF-15 - To receive consideration including veteran's preference points, all veterans must submit a copy of their DD-214 (copy Member #4). If you are claiming 10-point preference, you must submit your SF-15 (revised 12/04). The form is available at http://www.opm.gov/forms/html/sf.asp. If you are a current service member, in lieu of a DD-214, you may submit a statement from your military personnel center certifying the nature and dates of your service and expected date of separation.

VEOA - Preference Eligibles or veterans who have been separated from the armed forces under honorable conditions after substantially completing an initial three-year term may apply under the Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA). All veterans applying under the VEOA authority must submit a copy of their DD-214 (copy Member #4). If you are a current service member, in lieu of a DD-214, you may submit a statement from your military personnel center certifying the nature and dates of your service and expected date of separation.

SCHEDULE A - To receive consideration for Schedule A appointment, you must submit your certification from a State Vocational Rehabilitation Office or the Department of Veterans Affairs that you are likely to succeed in the performance of the position.

CTAP/ICTAP - If you are eligible under the Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP), a copy of your certificate of surplus status, certificate of expected separation, or a specific Reduction-in-Force notice establishing your eligibility under CTAP/ICTAP. CTAP/ICTAP candidates must meet all qualification requirements for the vacant position to include any selective factors; meet the definition of best qualified (GOLD Category); and be able to satisfactorily perform the duties of the position upon entry.

Supporting documents may either be uploaded or faxed to 571-258-4052. The requested information MUST be received by fax within 48 hours prior to the closing date of the vacancy announcement (not including Saturdays, Sundays or government holidays). The requested information MUST be received by fax within 48 hours prior to the closing date of the vacancy announcement (not including Saturdays, Sundays or government holidays).

NOTE: If you exaggerate or falsify your experience, education and/or your responses to questions, your ratings are subject to change or you may be removed from employment consideration.

Applicants who fail to submit all the required documentation listed above, in addition to their resumes, will be considered ineligible for further consideration for this announcement.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

How to Apply

Applications submitted via WWW.USAJOBS.GOV must be received before midnight eastern time on the closing date of the announcement. No extensions will be granted.  If you fail to submit a COMPLETE on-line resume, you WILL NOT be considered for this position. Please make sure that the responses provided in the questionnaire are fully supported by your resume, that your resume is detailed and you have highlighted your most relevant experience for this position (to include starting and ending dates of employment for each position held), and education (if applicable) as it relates to this job opportunity. If you fail to provide this information, it may result in you being rated "ineligible" or "not qualified" for this position.

If you exaggerate or falsify your experience, education and/or your responses to questions, your ratings are subject to change or you may be removed from employment consideration.  Applicants who do not respond to the application questions will be rated ineligible.

If applying on-line poses a hardship to any applicant, the Servicing Personnel Office listed on the announcement will provide assistance to ensure that applications are submitted on-line by the closing date. Applicants must contact the Servicing Human Resources Office PRIOR TO THE CLOSING DATE to speak to someone who can provide assistance for on-line submission.  Requests for extensions will not be granted.

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL ADDITIONAL LIKE VACANCIES IN THE ANNOUNCED DUTY LOCATION.

Agency contact information

Karen Muller
Phone
202-366-1490
TDD
202-366-2136
Fax
571-258-4052
Email
Karen.Muller@oig.dot.gov
Address
DOT, OFFICE OF THE INSPECTOR GENERAL
1200 New Jersey Ave SE
West Building, Room W71-123
Washington, District of Columbia 20590
United States

Next steps

Once your complete application is received, we will conduct an evaluation of your qualifications and determine your ranking. The most highly qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager for further consideration and possible interview. You will be notified of your application status by the servicing human resources specialist via e-mail. It is essential that you have a current e-mail address on file and remove any restrictions from your e-mail account that may prohibit our contacting you via e-mail. You may also check the status of your application at WWW.USAJOBS.GOV.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.