Border Patrol Agent - Law Enforcement

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 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 sense of purpose.

About the Role

This is a full-time, career Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) position designed for individuals who love protecting their community and are ready for a change of scenery. Whether your background is in military police units or state and local law enforcement, you will work alongside highly trained professionals to detect and question individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws. Your day-to-day duties may involve maintaining surveillance from covert positions, interpreting tracks and physical evidence of illegal entry, and patrolling international boundaries and coastal waterways using a variety of assets including vehicles, vessels, horses, and off-road equipment.

As a Border Patrol Agent, you will be a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer profession. The role is a career ladder position with progression from GL-9 to GS-11 and beyond, allowing you to grow within the agency without re-applying once you successfully complete the required time in grade.

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 Border Patrol Agent Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS, the federal government's official employment site, to finalize your application.

Your application will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam. 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 is often required. Newly appointed agents may be eligible for significant recruitment and retention incentives, including payments for completing the Academy and accepting assignments in prioritized locations.

Equal Opportunity and Culture

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or genetic information. We are committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.