Washington, Jan. 8 : The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is seeking to fill thousands of posts as it embarks on the biggest recruitment drive in its 101-year history.

According to the Scotsman, the vacancies include 850 special agents, besides a further 2,100 "professional staff positions".

Jobs include intelligence analysts, fingerprint experts, language specialists and electronics technicians, presumably for help with wire-tapping and other hi-tech eavesdropping.

"Your country needs you. This is a great time to apply for a great job," the paper quoted FBI spokesman Richard Kolko, as saying.

Perks include healthcare benefits and up to five weeks'' annual holiday. However, the job description makes no mention of dark glasses, trenchcoats or trilby hats.

FBI officials said that they were on a hiring spree to counter new threats to internal security, especially from cyber crime, domestic terrorism and blue-collar criminals.

They said applicants with language skills and computer expertise would be welcome.

"We''re looking for professionals in a wide variety of fields who have a deep desire to help protect our nation from terrorists, spies, and others who wish us harm," the Scotsman quoted John Raucci, the assistant director of the FBI''s human resources division, as saying.

Applicants must be US citizens and pass extensive background screening, including interviews with family, friends and former colleagues, and will be expected to uphold the agency''s motto of fidelity, bravery and integrity. (ANI)