Border Patrol Agent - Law Enforcement

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.

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 your background is in military police units or state and local law enforcement, you will work alongside highly trained professionals to perform critical duties such as detecting and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration laws, preventing the smuggling of aliens, and interpreting physical evidence of illegal entry.

The day-to-day life of a Border Patrol Agent involves maintaining surveillance from covert positions, patrolling international boundaries and coastal waterways using a variety of assets (including vehicles, horses, vessels, and ATVs), and performing checks on farms, buildings, and traffic. The role requires sound judgment, the ability to make rapid decisions, and the capacity to interact effectively with the public.

Hiring Process and Training

The application process begins by clicking the "Apply" button on this site, which links to the CBP Talent Network. You will select "Border Patrol Agent" as your Position of Interest and complete pre-screening questions. Subsequently, you will receive links to the official Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS to finalize your application, including the submission of resumes and supporting documents. Candidates are evaluated based on their application materials and the BPA Entrance Exam.

Selected candidates must be U.S. citizens and will undergo approximately six months of intensive instruction at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico. Training covers immigration laws, law enforcement operations, driver training, physical techniques, firearms proficiency, and Spanish language skills.

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. While candidates may select preferred mission-critical locations from a list of sectors (including Big Bend, El Paso, Tucson, and others), assignments may not align with first-choice preferences. Relocation may be required to fulfill the agency's mission.

Equal Opportunity

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.