Border Patrol Agent - Experienced (GS11)

About the Mission

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the nation's premier federal agency charged with securing our borders and protecting our country. As part of a workforce of over 60,000, Border Patrol Agents strive to safeguard the American people by deterring illicit activity and enhancing the nation's economic prosperity. This role offers a unique opportunity to join a team defined by camaraderie, pride, and a shared purpose, working alongside highly trained professionals to keep our communities and nation safe.

About the Role

This is a full-time, career Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) position designed for individuals with prior military police or state/local law enforcement experience. Your prior experience may qualify you for higher-graded opportunities (GL-9 or GS-11), allowing you to make an immediate impact. As a Border Patrol Agent, you will be a valuable member of the federal LEO profession, performing duties that range from detecting and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration laws to patrolling international boundaries and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets, including vehicles, vessels, horses, and off-road vehicles.

The role demands sound judgment, the ability to analyze information rapidly, and the capacity to work effectively with diverse populations. You will engage in covert surveillance, interpret physical evidence of illegal entry, and conduct various checks (farm, building, traffic) to prevent and apprehend smugglers and violators of immigration and customs laws. The position requires a commitment to continuous learning, including intensive training at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, covering immigration law, firearms, physical techniques, and Spanish language proficiency.

Hiring Process and Application Instructions

To apply, click the "Apply" button on this site to be linked to the CBP Talent Network registration page. Select "Border Patrol Agent" as your Position of Interest and complete the pre-screening questions. You will then receive links to the specific Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS to finalize your application.

Your application will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam. Ensure you review all details of the opportunity announcement and submit all required items, such as transcripts. For questions regarding the process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol careers page.

Duty Assignments and Relocation

Duty assignments are determined at the time of offer based on operational needs and may include prioritized locations along the Southwest Border. These assignments may or may not align with a candidate's first-choice preferences, and relocation may be required. Candidates are asked to select preferred locations from a list of mission-critical stations across various sectors, including Big Bend, Buffalo, Del Rio, El Paso, El Centro, Grand Forks, Havre, Houlton, Laredo, Rio Grande Valley, San Diego, Spokane, Swanton, Tucson, and Yuma.

Equal Opportunity and Culture

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or status as a protected veteran. We are committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.