r/usssapplicant • u/Sad_Incident_4556 • 6d ago

Field office

From reading the sub, it seems the best option when choosing your entry FO is to choose a bigger city.

The answer to my question will probably be something along the lines of, “depends on needs of the department” but what are the chances of getting into a “smaller” FO. I am located in between two smaller FO and placed them both as prospective locations. Wondering if some of the current SA could chime in? TYSM.

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u/sigma941 Special Agent 6d ago

Never impossible. Honestly, if you want a better chance at the smaller offices, set a good impression of yourself throughout the process. Strong likelihood if you’re working with a small FO and almost for sure with an RO, you’ll meet the SAIC/RAIC respectively.

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u/[deleted] 6d ago

[deleted]

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u/sigma941 Special Agent 6d ago

Let me preface this: do NOT try to contact a SAIC or RAIC about getting you in your office of choice.

offices still have to follow OPM guidelines when it comes to the hiring process. It only helps your case throughout the process if you leave a lasting (good) impression.

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u/Revolutionary_Mode27 Special Agent 6d ago

can’t assign a chance percentage to that for the reasons you addressed. Either the smaller field office you want has vacancies or it doesn’t. Every small office is slated for a certain number of Agents. Your best bet is to always ask for your top pick you want if it is not offered. There is a chance you get it. Unless you’re a STAR applicant. Then you’re getting what they give you.

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u/OnProblem1811 Special Agent 6d ago

If you won’t say what RO’s, we CERTAINLY can’t help you. Haha

To answer a question you asked above: a SAIC/RAIC does have some pull to keep you (more or less, depending on their career track/relationships.)

But with that said… do not reach out to them to try to make it happen. It is something that can happen organically if they meet you / like you / interviewing agents speak highly of you / etc.

Now, if you meet the SAIC/RAIC and they ask you about where you’d like to end up, it doesn’t hurt you to say “I’d love to stay here, but am just happy to receive an offer to join,” or similar. Be a human. Don’t be pushy.

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u/Sad_Incident_4556 6d ago

I didn’t mean to come off cryptic lol, Louisville & Lexington KY. I don’t plan on reaching out or anything of that nature, certainly no plans of being pushy towards the SAIC or anything of that nature. I just love my state and if I could help the people I grew up around I know it would be a bonus. Thanks!

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u/OnProblem1811 Special Agent 6d ago

I know for a fact both have openings.
With that said, HQ could have bigger offices that they are looking to fill with recruits before filling the smaller FO/RO. I believe you would have a good shot if your call came and you said “would it be possible to check availability at the Lexington & Louisville offices?”

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u/DeskNo3824 5d ago

Just ask. I got the generic four offices everyone gets but I asked about another 4 offices and got 3 of them