The Rapid Deployment Logistics Units are the quick action response teams that manage the logistical and technical activities necessary to set up an FBI command center anywhere in the world where an incident requiring FBI intervention has occurred. These highly qualified Special Agents and support personnel analyze the crisis that has occurred, the cultural and infrastructure issues related to that location and facilitate the movement of tons of equipment within hours of a mobilization order. Using the latest technical expertise, RDLU personnel are able to construct a command post that has virtually the same capabilities of an FBI office.
In the past RDLUs have set up posts in many of the world’s most dangerous locations including Iraq and Afghanistan. They were called in to build FBI centers at the 2004 Greek Olympics and the G-8 Summit in Georgia. Utilizing proven rapid deployment techniques utilized by the military as well as unique advancements developed by FBI logistical staff, RDLU personnel ensure that mission personnel are secure and well-resourced in order to meet a wide variety of challenges. The almost 150 personnel assigned to the four RDLU teams located in Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C. and Miami are prepared to deploy at a moment’s notice.
When not operating in the field, Rapid Deployment Logistics Units maintain FBI storehouses, cataloguing and monitoring the status of weapons, vehicles, information systems, and telecommunications equipment so that they can be immediately deployed once a call is received. RDLU staff also ensure that transport vehicles like trucks, ships and aircraft are maintained and ready.
Rapid Deployment Logistics Units Job Description
RDLU jobs require personnel who are expected to fulfill the following responsibilities:
- Maintain awareness of equipment manifests pertinent to various mission profiles
- Communicate with key mission personnel in preparation for resource and personnel transfers
- Provide food, lodgings and other basic necessities for deployed personnel
- Monitor the status of critical mission resources including transport conveyances and field equipment
- Supervise the construction of facilities in a wide variety of harsh or extreme environments
- Maintain a flexible system of logistical support to ensure rapid transport of requested resources
Rapid Deployment Logistics Unit Salary and Job Benefits
The Rapid Deployment Logistics Units are comprised of Special Agents and professional staff. Both groups fall within the FBI’s pay structure, which provides a minimum of GS-10 pay ratings to Bureau personnel. Special Agents are typically limited to GS-13 pay grades unless they obtain a supervisor or executive status. The same applies to professional staff, although some key, highly qualified specialists like electrical and mechanical engineers may be able to progress to the GS-14 level. In 2012, the GS salary ranges were described as:
These are merely the base salaries and are usually adjusted for cost of living. Agents and staff may be afforded Administratively Uncontrollable Overtime if they consistently have extended hours and are on call. This AUO may vary from 10 to 25 percent of the base salary plus COLA.