Experienced Border Patrol Officer

Join the U.S. Border Patrol as an Experienced Border Patrol Officer

If you are passionate about safeguarding your community and making a meaningful impact on national security, this is your opportunity! The U.S. Border Patrol is actively hiring for full-time, career positions. Your prior experience as a law enforcement officer may qualify you for higher-grade Border Patrol Officer positions. Join a distinguished federal agency dedicated to securing our borders and ensuring the safety of our country.

Whether you've served as part of a military police unit or in local or state law enforcement, you will be part of a highly skilled team united by camaraderie and a shared mission.

Explore the advantages we offer, including competitive pay, excellent benefits, and job stability. Newly appointed Agents may receive up to $60,000 in incentives! Take the next step in your career and check the details below.

Salary and Benefits:

Newly appointed law enforcement Border Patrol Officers earn a base salary that varies from:

  • Base Salary: GL-9/GS-11, $63,148 - $120,145 per year
  • Locality Pay: Varies by duty location
  • Overtime Pay: Up to 25%

This position offers career advancement opportunities from GL-9 to GS-12, with automatic promotions possible after completing 52 weeks in the lower grade. Benefit options include comprehensive health plans, generous leave, and access to the Thrift Savings Plan (similar to 401(k)).

*Recruitment Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Officers may be eligible for up to a $20,000 incentive. The first $10,000 is awarded after completing the Border Patrol Academy, with an additional $10,000 for accepting a prioritized location.

*Retention Incentive* New Border Patrol Officers may qualify for an additional $40,000 in retention incentives over four years.

Duties and Responsibilities:

As a Border Patrol Officer, you will play a vital role in protecting the American people. Your daily responsibilities can include:

  • Detecting and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws
  • Preventing and apprehending illegal entry and smuggling operations
  • Conducting physical evidence interpretation and tracking
  • Performing various checks, including farm, building, and vehicle inspections
  • Patrolling international borders using various government vehicles and equipment

To qualify as a GL-9, candidates must have one year of specialized experience performing law enforcement duties, including:

  • Searching individuals, vehicles, and surroundings for evidence of contraband
  • Apprehending and restraining violators of state and federal laws
  • Utilizing firearms and preparing investigative reports

To qualify for GS-11, candidates must have equivalent specialized experience, including:

  • Tracking illegal operations and criminal activity
  • Leading investigations into fraud and contraband
  • Utilizing technology for surveillance and apprehension

All candidates must be U.S. Citizens, have resided in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years, and apply before their 40th birthday unless they qualify for exemptions.

New hires will undergo training at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, focusing on immigration laws, law enforcement techniques, and physical training.

Application Process:

To apply, click the Apply button on this site, which will direct you to the CBP Talent Network registration page. Select 'Border Patrol Officer' as your position of interest and complete the required questions.

Upon registration, you will receive links to the official job openings on the USAJOBS site to complete your application. Ensure to review all details and submit the necessary documents, including your resume and transcripts.

For further inquiries, please visit the U.S. Border Patrol careers page.

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