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 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 who love protecting their community and are seeking 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 involve maintaining surveillance, interpreting physical evidence of illegal entry, and patrolling international boundaries and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets, including vehicles, vessels, horses, and off-road equipment.

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 official Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS to finalize your application.

Your application will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam. If you have questions about the process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol careers page. As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you will receive monthly updates on webinars, career expos, and future opportunities.

Training and Development

Selected candidates will undergo approximately six months of intensive instruction at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico. Training covers immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement operations, driver training, physical techniques, and firearms proficiency. Agents will also receive training to become proficient in Spanish, a critical skill for the role.

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. Candidates are asked to select preferred locations from a list of mission-critical stations across various sectors, including Big Bend, Buffalo, Del Rio, El Paso, El Centro, Grand Forks, Havre, Houlton, Laredo, Rio Grande Valley, San Diego, Spokane, Swanton, Tucson, and Yuma.

Equal Opportunity Statement

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, genetic information, or veteran status.