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 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, working alongside highly trained professionals in the Federal Security and Public Safety sector.

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

As a Border Patrol Agent, you will be a valuable member of the LEO profession, performing critical duties such as detecting and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws, interpreting tracks and physical evidence of illegal entry, and conducting patrols along the international boundary and coastal waterways. You will utilize a variety of government assets, including vehicles, horses, vessels, and off-road vehicles, to maintain surveillance and prevent the smuggling of aliens and contraband.

Hiring Process & 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 Border Patrol Agent 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. Be sure to review all details of the job opportunity announcement and follow all instructions regarding required submissions, such as resumes and transcripts. For questions about the process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol careers page.

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 or may not align with your first-choice preferences, and relocation may be required. You will be asked to select your preferred location from a list of mission-critical stations during the application process.

Training & Development

Upon hiring, all agents are detailed to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six months of intensive instruction. Training covers immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement operations, driver training, physical techniques, and firearms proficiency. While the ability to speak and read Spanish is required, agents are provided training at the Academy to achieve proficiency in the language.

Equal Opportunity & Culture

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants regardless of background. This position is covered under law enforcement retirement provisions, and candidates must generally be under 40 years of age at the time of referral, with specific exceptions for veterans and current federal civilian law enforcement officers.