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 (BPAs) 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, your prior experience may qualify you for higher-graded opportunities (GL-9 or GS-11).

As a BPA, you will work alongside highly trained professionals to detect and question individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws, prevent and apprehend smugglers, and interpret physical evidence of illegal entry. Your day-to-day duties involve maintaining surveillance, patrolling international boundaries and coastal waterways using diverse assets (from vehicles to horses and snowmobiles), and performing various checks to ensure border security. This is a career ladder position with progression from GL-9 to GS-11 to GS-12.

Hiring and Interview Process

The application process begins by clicking the "Apply" button on this site, which links you 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 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 resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam. Successful applicants 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, firearms, and Spanish language proficiency.

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 can select preferred locations from a list of mission-critical sectors, assignments may not align with first-choice preferences, and relocation may be required.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. Join a team where your service directly contributes to the safety and security of the nation.