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 (BPA) 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 seeking a change of scenery. Whether your background is in military police or state and local law enforcement, you will work alongside highly trained professionals to perform critical duties. These include detecting and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws, maintaining surveillance from covert positions, interpreting physical evidence of illegal entry, and patrolling international boundaries and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets.

The role is dynamic and demanding, requiring sound judgment in the use of firearms, the ability to analyze information rapidly, and the capacity to interact effectively with the public. Upon hiring, you will undergo approximately six months of intensive instruction at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, covering immigration laws, law enforcement tactics, physical techniques, and firearms proficiency. Proficiency in Spanish is also a key component of the mission.

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 a link to the specific Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS to finalize your application. Ensure you review all details and submit required items, such as resumes and transcripts. Candidates are evaluated based on their resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam.

For questions regarding the application process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol careers page. As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you will also 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 prioritized locations along the Southwest Border. While candidates may select preferred locations from a list of mission-critical sectors, assignments may not align with first-choice preferences, and relocation may be required. The agency fosters a culture of excellence where prior law enforcement experience is highly valued, offering a clear career ladder from GL-9 to GS-11 and beyond.

Equal Opportunity Statement

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, or genetic information. Veterans' Preference may apply to eligible candidates, and specific age restrictions for this law enforcement position may be waived for certain veterans or prior federal civilian law enforcement officers.