Entry-Level Law Enforcement Agent

Embark on a Purpose-Driven Career!

If you are looking for more than just a job and desire a meaningful, long-lasting career in federal law enforcement that serves our nation and its citizens, the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) welcomes you to take the first step toward becoming an Entry-Level Law Enforcement Agent.

USBP is actively hiring for full-time, entry-level positions in federal law enforcement. If you have experience in public safety, security, military police, or law enforcement, you may qualify. Work alongside a passionate team of professionals who demonstrate pride, camaraderie, and a strong sense of duty while protecting our country.

Now is the ideal time to make your move! Alongside excellent base pay and outstanding benefits, USBP offers up to $60,000 in additional incentives. Discover the details below!

Salary and Benefits

The annual base salary for newly appointed Border Patrol Agents varies by grade level : GL-5 / GL-7 $51,632 - $92,219 per year. As a Border Patrol Agent, you can select from various federal employment benefits, including health and dental insurance, a generous leave program, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, akin to a traditional ROTH 401(k) plan.

Recruitment Incentives

Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents are eligible for up to $20,000 in recruitment incentives : the first $10,000 is paid upon successful completion of the Border Patrol Academy, with the remaining $10,000 awarded for accepting certain prioritized positions.

Retention Incentives

Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents may also qualify for up to $40,000 in retention incentives distributed over their first four years.

Duty Locations

IMPORTANT NOTICE : Duty assignments available at the time of offer may include the Southwest Border. U.S. Border Patrol determines duty assignments at the time of offer based on operational needs, which may not align with your personal preferences. Relocation may be required.

The location of your duty will influence pay rates, as locality pay for federal law enforcement varies across areas. A fully trained Border Patrol Agent may be eligible for an additional 25% of base pay as per the BPA Pay Reform Act of 2014. This is a career-ladder position with grade levels GL-5, GL-7, GL-9, GS-11, and GS-12. You will qualify for promotion to the next level after successfully completing 52 weeks in each grade.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a Border Patrol Agent, you will join a dedicated workforce of over 60,000 professionals focused on protecting the American public by securing our borders, deterring illicit activities, and contributing to national economic prosperity. Your key responsibilities will include :

• Identifying and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws while reviewing documents to ascertain citizenship or violations.
• Preventing and apprehending undocumented individuals and smugglers at or near border areas while conducting surveillance using various techniques, including infrared scopes during nighttime operations.
• Interpreting and analyzing tracks, marks, and physical evidence related to unauthorized entries.
• Conducting checks on farms, buildings, traffic, and engaging in city patrols.
• Patrolling international boundaries and coastal waterways using various government assets such as vehicles, horses, vessels, ATVs, and motorcycles.

Qualifications

To qualify for the GL-5 grade level, you must meet one of the following :

Experience : One year of general work experience displaying the ability to take charge, make sound decisions, and maintain composure in stressful situations, or the capacity to learn regulations and techniques through training. Skills in gathering concise information are also essential.

Education Substitution : A bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited institution.

Combination of Experience and Education : A combination of the above experience and education will be assessed through your resume and submitted transcripts.

For the GL-7 grade level, you must have :

Experience : One year of specialized work experience demonstrating judgment in firearms usage, effective interpersonal skills in law enforcement contexts, and the ability to quickly analyze information for decision-making.

Education Substitution : A bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement or one year of graduate-level education in a related field.

Note : If you have prior law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify for the GL-9 or GS-11 grade levels.

Additional Requirements

Citizenship : You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply.

Residency : You must have had primary U.S. residency for at least three of the past five years.

Age Requirement : Candidates must be referred for selection before reaching their 40th birthday due to law enforcement retirement regulations.