Want to work for the FBI? You must be physically fit

PHOENIX, Ariz. (KSAZ) - The Federal Bureau of Investigation is looking to hire nearly 750 special agents across the country. SUzanne Solomon, an FBI Special Agent Applicant Coordinator, outlined what the agency is looking for, from its candidates.

"Who has a four-year degree, who has three years of professional work experience, and we look from people who come from diverse backgrounds, so you don't have to be prior law enforcement or military," said Solomon.

While many people may not know this, to become a special agent, a prospective candidate has to pass a physical fitness test.

The test begins with sit-ups, with the candidate doing as many as he or she can, in one minute. That is followed by a timed 300m sprint, then followed by a push-up test, where the candidate will do as many as he or she can, until complete exhaustion.

The fitness test culminates with a timed 1.5mi run. FOX 10's Danielle Miller took the test, and scored zero on the sit-up test, six points with the 300m sprint, and five on the 1.5mi run. The score, according to those administering the test, is a passing one, but a candidate must score at least one point in every event.

Special agents said it is extremely important to be physically fit.

"On a violent crimes program, you have to be fit. You never know when a subject of your investigation may take off running or want to fight or assault you," said Special Agent Perryn Collier.

Agents have to take the same physical fitness test, once a year. Anyone interested in working for the FBI can see a list of open positions by clicking here.