Border Patrol Agent - Entry Level

About the role

The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) is hiring immediate entry-level positions in federal law enforcement. These roles are ideal for those with experience in public safety, security, military police, or law enforcement who are seeking a long-term career making a difference.

Responsibilities

• Deterring and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws.
• Inspecting documents and possessions to determine citizenship or violations.
• Maintaining surveillance and conducting night operations using infrared scopes.
• Interpreting and following tracks, marks, and other physical evidence of illegal entry.
• Performing farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, city patrols, and transportation checks.
• Patrolling the international border and coastal waterways using various government assets.

Requirements

• GL-5: One year of general work experience or a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• GL-7: One year of specialized work experience or a bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement, or one full year of graduate-level education in a related field.

Qualifications

• Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Residency: At least three years of primary U.S. residency.
• Age Restriction: Must be referred for selection before turning 40.
• Veterans’ Preference: Eligible for Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA).
• Formal Training: Detailed instruction in immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement, and USBP-specific operations.

Benefits

• Annual Base Salary ranging from $51,632 to $92,912 per year.
• Exceptional benefits including health, dental, and other insurance plans, generous leave programs, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan.
• Up to $60,000 in additional incentives, including a $20,000 recruitment incentive and up to $40,000 in retention incentives over the first four years.

Pay

Annual Base Salary for newly appointed Border Patrol Agents varies per grade, as follows: GL-5/GL-7 $51,632- $92,912 per year.

Schedule

U.S. Border Patrol determines duty assignments based on operational needs, which may or may not align with candidates’ first-choice preferences. Relocation may be required.

Benefits

• Retirement benefits under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
• Health, dental, and other insurance plans.
• A generous annual and sick leave program.
• Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan.

Application

To apply, click the Apply button on this site. Complete the pre-screening questions and follow the instructions on USAJOBS to submit your application. Be sure to review all details of the job opportunity announcement and follow all instructions in the application process.