Border Patrol Agent – Experienced Law Enforcement Professionals

About the Mission

The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) 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 protect the American people by safeguarding borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation's economic prosperity. The agency is built on a foundation of camaraderie, pride, and purpose, offering an elite team of highly trained professionals dedicated to a critical daily mission.

About the Role

This position offers a career in federal law enforcement for those seeking an exciting and rewarding job. You will join a team where your current or prior law enforcement experience—whether gained through military police assignments or state and local organizations—is highly valued. As an Experienced Border Patrol Agent (BPA), you will be part of a career ladder progression from GL-9 to GS-11 to GS-12, with opportunities for promotion upon successful completion of time-in-grade requirements.

The role involves working with an elite team to detect and question individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws, prevent and apprehend smugglers, and interpret physical evidence of illegal entry. You will patrol international boundaries and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets, including vehicles, horses, vessels, and specialized equipment like infrared scopes for night operations. The work requires making arrests, exercising sound judgment with firearms, and analyzing information rapidly to make prompt decisions.

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. If hired, you 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, driver training, physical techniques, and firearms proficiency. Training also includes becoming proficient in the Spanish language.

For questions regarding the application process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol page at careers.cbp.gov/s/usbp. As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you will receive monthly updates on webinars, career expos, and future opportunities.

Duty Assignments and Culture

Duty assignments are determined at the time of offer based on operational needs and may include the Southwest Border, including prioritized locations such as Sierra Blanca, TX; Presidio, TX; Sanderson, TX; Comstock, TX; Lordsburg, NM; Freer, TX; Hebbronville, TX; and Ajo, AZ. Relocation may be required, and assignments may or may not align with a candidate's first-choice preferences. The agency offers a culture of camaraderie and pride, with a focus on protecting America through a dedicated law enforcement profession.

Equal Opportunity

The 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 other protected status.