Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Range $51,632.00 - $92,912.00
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Retirement Plan
Paid Time Off
recruitment incentives
retention incentives
Job stability

Job Description

The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) is a vital federal law enforcement organization dedicated to protecting America's borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation's economic prosperity. As part of the Department of Homeland Security, the USBP operates as a cornerstone of the nation’s efforts to ensure border security and public safety. The USBP employs over 60,000 professionals who take pride in their mission and work together with camaraderie and purpose. Their responsibilities are critical not only to national security but also to maintaining lawful immigration and safeguarding communities throughout the country. The agency offers long-term, career-oriented positions that provide job stability, excellent base pay, and an array of federal benefits including health, dental, and retirement plans. With up to $60,000 in additional new hire incentives – including recruitment and retention bonuses – the USBP is actively recruiting full-time, entry-level Border Patrol Agents who are looking for a meaningful career in federal law enforcement.

The Border Patrol Agent (BPA) role is a challenging and rewarding federal law enforcement career designed for individuals who want to make a real difference in protecting the country. BPAs perform critical tasks such as detecting and questioning individuals suspected of violating immigration laws, preventing and apprehending undocumented noncitizens and smugglers, conducting surveillance operations including the use of night vision equipment, and interpreting physical evidence of illegal crossings. Agents patrol the international border and coastal waterways using various government vehicles and equipment such as horses, vessels, ATVs, motorcycles, and all-terrain vehicles. The position demands physical fitness, sound judgment, quick decision-making, and the ability to interact effectively with the public under sometimes stressful conditions.The position is classified as a career ladder job with progressive grade levels from GL-5 through GL-7, GL-9, GS-11, and GS-12, allowing agents to advance in pay and responsibility systematically after meeting specific experience and training milestones. Newly appointed BPAs receive approximately six months of intensive academy training in Artesia, New Mexico, where they gain expertise in immigration laws, law enforcement techniques, physical and firearms training, and develop bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish to meet operational demands. The duty locations are diverse, ranging across critical border sectors including various stations in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California, and other border states, with prioritized assignments offering additional financial incentives. Applicants should be prepared for possible relocation and must meet federal regulations including age restrictions, citizenship, residency requirements, and physical and academic qualifications. This is an opportunity for candidates with backgrounds in public safety, security, military, or law enforcement to join an elite federal law enforcement team dedicated to protecting the homeland and upholding the law with integrity and professionalism.

Job Requirements

  • Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Must have primary U.S. residency for at least three of the last five years
  • Must be referred for selection before age 40 unless exempt
  • Eligible veterans' preference may waive age restriction
  • Able to speak and read English and willing to learn Spanish
  • Willing to undergo approximately six months of training at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy
  • Able to relocate as assigned
  • Must complete application and selection process including exams and supporting documents submission

Job Qualifications

  • One year of general work experience demonstrating ability to take charge, make sound decisions, and maintain composure in stressful situations for GL-5 grade level
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of experience and education for GL-5 grade level
  • One year of specialized work experience showing skills in using firearms, making arrests, decision-making, and dealing tactfully with people for GL-7 grade level
  • Bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement or one year of graduate-level education in related field for GL-7 grade level
  • Previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience may qualify for GL-9 or GS-11 grade levels

Job Duties

  • Detect and question people suspected of violating immigration and customs laws and inspect documents and possessions to determine citizenship or violations
  • Prevent and apprehend undocumented noncitizens and smugglers of noncitizens at or near borders by maintaining surveillance from covert positions including using infrared scopes during night operations
  • Interpret and follow tracks, marks, and other physical evidence of illegal entry of persons or contraband
  • Perform farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, city patrols, and transportation checks
  • Patrol the international boundary and coastal waterways using vehicles, horses, vessels, watercraft, off-road vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles for mission accomplishment

Job Criteria

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)


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