Border Patrol Officer

Border Patrol Officer (BPO) - Federal Security and Public Safety Sector (Entry Level)

A MISSION WORTHY OF A CAREER!

If you're seeking more than just a job and want to embark on a fulfilling long-term career in federal law enforcement that positively impacts our nation, the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) invites you to take the first step towards becoming an entry-level Border Patrol Officer.

USBP is actively hiring for full-time, entry-level career positions in law enforcement. Your background in public safety, security, military, or law enforcement may qualify you. Join an elite team dedicated to protecting America with pride and a shared sense of purpose.

Now is the perfect time to make a career move! In addition to a competitive base salary and outstanding benefits, USBP is offering up to $60,000 in additional incentives!

Salary and Benefits

The annual base salary for new BPOs ranges from $51,632 to $92,219, depending on the grade level (GL-5/GL-7). You will have access to comprehensive federal employment benefits, including health, dental, and various insurance plans, along with a generous annual and sick leave program, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement option similar to a traditional ROTH 401(k).

*Recruitment Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Officers are eligible for up to $20,000 in incentives. The first $10,000 will be disbursed upon successful completion of the Border Patrol Academy, with an additional $10,000 awarded for accepting a prioritized location assignment.

*Retention Incentive* New BPOs may also qualify for up to $40,000 in incentives over their initial four years of service.

Duty Locations

IMPORTANT: Duty assignments may include the Southwest Border and other prioritized locations. U.S. Border Patrol will determine duty assignments based on operational needs, which may not align with candidates' preferences. Relocation may be necessary.

You could leverage locality pay, which is higher in specific areas, with a fully trained BPO eligible for up to an additional 25% of base pay as per the BPA Pay Reform Act of 2014. This is a career ladder position with a growth path from GL-5 to GS-12, with promotion eligibility after completing one year in each grade.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a BPO, you’ll contribute to the mission of safeguarding our borders, deterring illegal activities, and promoting national economic prosperity.

• Identifying and questioning individuals suspected of breaching immigration and customs laws, and inspecting documents and possessions.
• Preventing and apprehending undocumented noncitizens and smugglers through vigilant surveillance, including night operations.
• Investigating tracks, marks, and physical evidence of illegal entries or contraband.
• Conducting various checks such as farm, building, traffic, and city patrols.
• Patrolling the international boundaries and coastal waterways using government vehicles, horses, vessels, ATVs, and more.

Qualifications

You qualify for the GL-5 grade level if you have:

• One year of general work experience demonstrating leadership, sound decision-making, and the ability to remain composed under pressure;
• A bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited institution; OR
• A combination of experience and education that will be assessed through your resume and transcripts submitted with your application.

You qualify for the GL-7 grade level if you possess:

• One year of specialized work experience showing the ability to make sound judgments in the use of firearms and effectively engage with individuals in law enforcement contexts.
• A bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement; OR
• A combination of experience and education, assessed as above.

Additional Requirements

Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. Citizens.

Residency: Primary residency in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years is required.

Age Restrictions: Candidates must be referred for selection before their 40th birthday due to law enforcement retirement provisions.

Formal Training: Successful candidates will be sent to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy for approximately six months of rigorous training covering immigration laws, law enforcement practices, and firearms proficiency. Additionally, training to achieve fluency in Spanish will be provided.

How to Apply:

To apply, click the Apply button on this site, which will direct you to the CBP Talent Network registration page. After selecting 'Border Patrol Agent' in the Position of Interest, complete the pre-screening questions.

You will receive links to the BPA Job Opening Announcements on the federal government’s official employment site, USAJOBS. Make sure to review all details of the job opportunity announcement and follow application instructions carefully.

If you have any questions about the application process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol page.

As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you’ll receive monthly updates about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with CBP.