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 (BPA) strive to safeguard the American people by deterring illicit activity and enhancing the nation's economic prosperity.

This is a career opportunity for those who love protecting their community and are looking for a change of scenery. Whether your background is in military police units or state and local law enforcement, you will join highly trained professionals whose camaraderie, pride, and purpose are hallmarks of their daily mission.

About the Role

As a Border Patrol Agent, you will be a valued member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession. Your day-to-day work involves detecting and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws, inspecting documents, and interpreting tracks or physical evidence of illegal entry.

You will prevent and apprehend smugglers by maintaining surveillance from covert positions, including night operations using infrared scopes. The role requires patrolling international boundaries and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets, such as vehicles, horses, vessels, ATVs, and snowmobiles. Agents also perform farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, and city patrols.

This is a career ladder position with grade level progression from GL-9 to GS-11 to GS-12. Agents are eligible for promotion to the next higher grade level without re-applying once they successfully complete 52 weeks in the lower grade level.

Hiring Process and Application Instructions

1. Register: Click the Apply button to link to the CBP Talent Network registration page. Select "Border Patrol Agent" as your Position of Interest and complete the pre-screening questions.
2. Apply: You will receive a link to the BPA Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS. Complete your application there, ensuring you submit all required details, including your resume and transcripts.
3. Evaluate: Candidates are evaluated based on their resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam.

Important Note on Duty Assignments: 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 not align with a candidate's first-choice preferences, and relocation may be required.

Training: Upon hiring, agents are detailed to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six months of intensive instruction covering immigration laws, law enforcement, driver training, physical techniques, and firearms. Proficiency in Spanish is required; training is provided to achieve this proficiency.

Equal Opportunity and Culture

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background. The agency values a diverse workforce dedicated to the mission of border security and public safety.