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BATF Inspectors carry out their duties in a variety of work settings. Inspections may take them to such
locations as breweries; wineries; distilleries; plants that manufacture distilled spirits for industrial,
scientific, and medical use; and laboratories conducting scientific research projects. Other locations
include wholesale liquor establishments, cigar and cigarette manufacturing plants, firearms and explo-
sives retailers, and manufacturers and importers.
When BATF Inspectors are given their work assignments, they visit business establishments alone or
as part of an inspection team. They contact and interview company representatives and gather basic data
about procedures and operations. They acquire financial statements as well as business and public records
to verify information and to make certain that required taxes have been paid. In addition, they determine
that the business has the various special licenses, permits, and other authorizations required by federal
law. Another important aspect of this job involves observation of conditions to judge whether facilities
and equipment meet legal standards and whether manufacturing processes and operations are being
conducted in accordance with the law. If violations are detected, BATF Inspectors advise company
representatives and arrange for correction of these conditions. In cases in which criminal violations such
as fraud, tax evasion, or falsified inventories are uncovered, detailed summaries of evidence assist agents
in preparing cases for criminal prosecution. BATF Inspectors prepare written reports of their work
activities, may serve legal papers on persons in violation of federal laws, and sometimes testify as
government witnesses during court proceedings.
Working Conditions
BATF Inspectors may be assigned to work stations anywhere in the United States and are required to
travel when performing field inspections. Working hours are usually regular and average 40 hours per
week. The fringe benefits that BATF Inspectors receive include paid vacations, sick leave, overtime pay,
low-cost medical and life insurance, and retirement annuities.
Promotion Opportunities
BATF Inspectors are chosen from the top of the list of eligible candidates meeting the entry standards of
the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. Prospects for advancement in this work are generally
favorable. Promotions are not automatic; rather, they're based on satisfactory performance and the
recommendations of supervisory staff. As BATF Inspectors show the ability to assume more complex
assignments, they are recommended for promotion in line with such responsibilities. If they so desire,
BATF Inspectors may choose an alternative advancement route by becoming BATF Special Agents.
Many of the experience requirements for Special Agents can be fulfilled by years of satisfactory service
as a BATF Inspector. Federal agencies give preferential treatment to job applicants from within the
agency.
BUREAU OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, AND FIREARMS SPECIAL AGENT
Duties of the Job
An essential part of the federal government's law enforcement effort is the U.S. Treasury Department's
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (BATF). BATF Special Agents, stationed in hundreds of
offices throughout the United States, contribute greatly in the battle against crime and violence in our
country. The work of these Agents is far from routine because they face ever-changing situations while
carrying out their duties. The major responsibilities of BATF Special Agents are twofold. First, they
enforce federal laws concerned with the sale, transfer, manufacture, import, and possession of firearms
