If you've never been convicted of a crime you should be on safe ground. However if they ask if you've ever been arrested you have to tell them and then explain the circumstances. The fact that this drug arrest happened recently indicates you have a history of marijuana use. They  may not look at you as being desirable if they think your a user and will zero in on your drug history. More people applying for FBI jobs get tossed for drug histories than anything else. That was my understanding when I worked for the FBI a few years back......

A "recent" arrest for possession of controlled substance is not a small deal. If it occurred as a youth and there has been some time in between, you may have a chance. However, the fact you were recently arrested indicates you don't obey or respect drug laws. This is not good when it comes to jobs that require adherence to laws.

You will probably be placed in an "arrest review" category in which you will be given a chance to explain on paper the circumstances regarding the arrest.  This explanation will then be reviewed by an adjudications officer or equivalent.

While you have not completely ruined your chances, it doesn't really look all that great either.

I was recently arrested for possesion of Marijuana. A $20 bag of weed. I went to the arraignment with my attorney and the judge threw the case out. My attorney told me that I was not charged with anything. I have no prior records with a, pretty much, spotless past. Now I'm applying for several civil servant positions, most of which require background investigations. I want to know if I've pretty much ruined my opportunity to work for the government now that I have an arrest record. or is it the conviction of a crime that really counts. Thanks. 

kkdog