Border Patrol Agent (Entry Level)

About the Mission

The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), within U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is an elite team of highly trained professionals dedicated to protecting America. Our daily mission is defined by camaraderie, pride, and a shared purpose: safeguarding our borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation's economic prosperity. We are hiring immediately for entry-level career Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) opportunities to join our workforce of over 60,000 agents.

About the Role

As a Border Patrol Agent (BPA), you will serve as a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer profession. This is a career ladder position offering stability, excellent pay, and exceptional federal benefits. You will work with an elite team where your contributions directly impact the security of the nation.

Your day-to-day work involves detecting and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws, interpreting physical evidence of illegal entry, and performing various checks including farm, building, and traffic patrols. You will patrol international boundaries and coastal waterways using a diverse array of government assets, from vehicles and horses to watercraft and snowmobiles. The role requires maintaining surveillance from covert positions, including night operations with infrared scopes, and apprehending undocumented noncitizens and smugglers.

Hiring and Interview Process

The selection process is rigorous and comprehensive. After submitting your application via the CBP Talent Network and USAJOBS, you will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam. Successful candidates will be invited to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six months of intensive instruction covering immigration laws, firearms, physical techniques, and Spanish language proficiency.

How to Apply:

1. Click the "Apply" button on this site to register with the CBP Talent Network.
2. Select "Border Patrol Agent" as your Position of Interest and complete the pre-screening questions.
3. You will receive a link to the specific Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS to finalize your application.
4. Ensure all required items, such as resumes and transcripts, are submitted according to the instructions.

For questions regarding the application process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol careers page.

Duty Assignments and Culture

Duty assignments are determined at the time of offer based on operational needs and may include the Southwest Border. While candidates may express preferences, relocation is often required to meet mission demands. Prioritized locations for retention incentives include sites in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.

We foster a culture of pride and purpose, offering a career path with grade level progression from GL-5 to GS-12. Agents are eligible for promotions upon successful completion of 52 weeks in each grade level without reapplying. As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you will also receive monthly updates on webinars, career expos, and future opportunities within the agency.