Air Interdiction Agent

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operates Air and Marine Operations (AMO), an elite law enforcement aviation division dedicated to protecting American borders and enhancing national security. As a critical component of CBP, AMO employs highly skilled pilots and agents to conduct complex aerial law enforcement duties, interdiction missions, and rescue operations. With a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the United States against terrorism, illegal trafficking, and other criminal activities, AMO offers meaningful and challenging career opportunities with exceptional federal benefits and job security.

The position of Air Interdiction Agent (AIA) within AMO presents an exciting opportunity for experienced pilots interested in leveraging their aviation skills in a law enforcement environment. This full-time role requires pilots to perform aviation-based law enforcement operations aimed at detecting, preventing, and interdicting illegal activities such as smuggling of contraband and the unlawful entry of persons into the U.S. AIA pilots operate both airplanes and helicopters in diverse and often demanding conditions, including night flights, adverse weather, and challenging terrain, requiring sound judgment, rapid decision-making, and strategic coordination.

As an Air Interdiction Agent, you will be part of a highly trained team dedicated to maintaining border security and supporting humanitarian efforts. Duties include conducting air patrols, surveillance, and pursuits related to interdiction of illicit activities involving land vehicles, aircraft, or vessels. Pilots are also responsible for monitoring behaviors of suspicious individuals and crafting intelligence that supports strategic and tactical decision-making. Additionally, agents may participate in search and rescue operations, contributing to critical lifesaving missions.

This role offers a competitive salary structure, with starting pay for the GS-11 grade ranging from $85,270 to $110,846 annually, augmented by special salary rates, law enforcement availability pay, and recruitment and retention incentives. Pilots can progress up career ladder grades GS-11 through GS-13 with opportunities for automatic promotion based on performance and tenure. Incentives include substantial sign-on and retention bonuses, with new hires eligible for a $10,000 recruitment incentive after training completion and ongoing retention incentives of up to 25% for select duty locations. Duty stations encompass various strategic regional locations in the Southeast and Southwest United States, such as Florida, Puerto Rico, Arizona, California, Texas, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) sites in Arizona and Texas.

Federal employment benefits for this position include comprehensive health and dental insurance plans, paid annual and sick leave, and access to the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement savings plan similar to a 401(k). Moreover, this career promises stability, mission-driven work, and the chance to serve the nation in a dynamic aviation law enforcement role. Experienced pilots, especially those with military backgrounds, are encouraged to apply to join this prestigious and dedicated team.