Agents are responsible for maintaining order through the implementation of laws and regulations. This may include patrolling streets or assigned areas; responding to emergency calls; apprehending suspects; conducting investigations; testifying in court; preparing reports; participating in community relations activities; using advanced technology (e.g., tracking systems); interviewing witnesses or victims; providing protection services; carrying out searches and seizures; documenting evidence; securing crime scenes; placing suspects under arrest; executing warrants; searching vehicles or homes for illegal items or contraband.

On an everyday basis, federal law enforcement officers perform various tasks such as conducting background checks on potential employees or applicants for government positions/licenses, performing security inspections at power plants or other sensitive installations; monitoring activity at border checkpoints and airports to detect illegal immigration or contraband smuggling activities, engaging in undercover operations related to suspected criminal activity such as drug trafficking, terrorism investigation etc., collecting evidence from crime scenes by taking photographs and fingerprints etc., ensuring compliance with state/federal laws pertaining to dangerous substances/weapons/etc., interacting with members of the public who may be suspiciously behaving or otherwise engaged in activities that could be considered suspicious. Additionally, they need to remain informed on changes in relevant laws to better carry out their duties.