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 in the Federal Security and Public Safety sector.

About the Role

This is a full-time, career Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) position designed for individuals passionate about protecting their community and keeping the nation safe. Whether you are transitioning from a military police unit or bringing experience from a state or local law enforcement organization, your prior background may qualify you for higher-graded opportunities (GL-9 or GS-11).

As a Border Patrol Agent, you will be part of a dynamic team that maintains surveillance, interprets physical evidence, and patrols international boundaries and coastal waterways using a variety of assets including vehicles, vessels, horses, and off-road equipment. The role involves detecting and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws, apprehending smugglers, and performing diverse checks such as farm, building, and traffic patrols. It is a career ladder position with progression from GL-9 to GS-11 to GS-12, offering job stability and the chance to make a tangible difference in national security.

Hiring Process and Application

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 Border Patrol Agent Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS to finalize your application.

Candidates are evaluated based on their resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam. Successful applicants will be detailed to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six months of intensive instruction covering immigration laws, law enforcement tactics, firearms, and Spanish language proficiency.

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, or genetic information. We foster a culture of excellence where agents work together to uphold the law and protect the nation.