Air Interdiction Agent

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is a vital federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), responsible for safeguarding the nation's borders against unlawful activities such as terrorism, smuggling, and illegal immigration. Within CBP, the Air and Marine Operations (AMO) division stands out as an elite unit specializing in aviation and maritime law enforcement missions to protect America’s security and sovereignty. AMO offers pilots a unique career opportunity combining advanced aviation skills with law enforcement responsibilities, ensuring the interdiction and apprehension of threats near U.S. borders. With a reputation for professional excellence, teamwork, and commitment to public safety, AMO recruits pilots who are prepared to engage in challenging missions to intercept illegal activities through aerial surveillance and interdiction.

The Air Interdiction Agent (AIA) role within AMO is a full-time federal law enforcement position designed for highly skilled pilots seeking a dynamic career in public service. AIAs undertake critical aviation-based law enforcement operations including surveillance, pursuit, and interdiction of vessels, land vehicles, and aircraft suspected of illegal activities such as trafficking of contraband, weapons, and unauthorized persons attempting to enter or harm the United States. The work environment is fast-paced and demanding, requiring keen situational awareness, rapid decision-making, and advanced flying proficiency in diverse conditions including night and adverse weather. Employment with AMO offers a secure, rewarding career with a competitive salary range from $88,509 to $163,996 annually based on qualifications and grade level within the GS-11 to GS-13 pay scale. New hires benefit from federal recruitment and retention incentives such as one-time sign-on bonuses and ongoing retention pay supplements dependent on location.

Duty locations for AIAs cover various strategic regions in the U.S. including Southeast Region bases in Homestead, FL and Aguadilla, Puerto Rico; Southwest Region bases in Tucson and Yuma, AZ, San Diego, CA, El Paso, Laredo, and McAllen, TX; and NASOC UAS sites such as Sierra Vista, AZ and San Angelo, TX. These locations serve critical operational requirements, and successful candidates must be flexible and willing to work at any assigned duty station within their selected region.

The position involves critical law enforcement tasks such as conducting air patrols, surveillance, and pursuit activities essential for interdiction efforts; monitoring suspects' movements and activities in coordination with ground and other aerial assets; analyzing strategic and tactical intelligence to inform mission planning and execution; and participating in search and rescue or humanitarian missions when needed. AIAs utilize advanced aviation technology, databases, and communication systems to maintain situational awareness and operational effectiveness.

Candidates must meet rigorous qualifications including a minimum of one year of specialized professional aviation experience in demanding flight environments and roles such as Pilot-in-Command or Certified Flight Instructor. The role requires FAA Commercial or ATP Pilot Certification with specified ratings, or equivalent military ratings, accompanied by a minimum of 1,500 flight hours (with waivers possible). Medical fitness standards and federal employment eligibility criteria such as U.S. citizenship, residency, age limits, and training requirements apply. AMO provides a structured career pathway with automatic promotion potential based on performance and tenure.

In addition to competitive pay and federal benefits—such as health, dental, and life insurance, generous leave policies, and retirement plans—AMO offers a professional environment dedicated to career growth, continuous training, and impactful public service. Aspiring pilots with military or civilian aviation backgrounds interested in a law enforcement aviation career are encouraged to apply and contribute to the agency’s vital mission of protecting America’s borders.