Marine Interdiction Agent

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is a critical federal agency tasked with maintaining the security and integrity of America's borders. Within CBP, Air and Marine Operations (AMO) operates as a specialized law enforcement branch responsible for conducting interdiction and enforcement operations on air and marine venues. The AMO team is composed of highly trained professionals who work collaboratively to protect national security through the detection and prevention of illegal activities such as terrorism, smuggling, and illegal entry into the United States. The Marine Interdiction Agent (MIA) position offers the unique opportunity to become part of this elite unit where dedication, integrity, and a strong sense of camaraderie characterize the workforce. This career path provides a blend of law enforcement duties focused on marine environments, offering excitement, stability, and competitive compensation.

The role of a Marine Interdiction Agent involves full-time law enforcement work aboard vessels or in coastal areas to detect, prevent, and interdict illegal activities. MIAs act as frontline agents protecting the United States against threats such as terrorist infiltrations, illegal weapons, contraband smuggling, and unauthorized crossings at maritime borders. The position is a federal law enforcement career with a defined career grade ladder that progresses through GS-11, GS-12, and GS-13 levels, each with increasing responsibility and compensation. New hires may start as GS-11 agents earning from $76,745 up to $142,199 per year depending on qualifications and duty location. Key duty stations include locations within the Southwest Region, Southeast Region, the Caribbean Air and Marine Branch, and others, with duty assignments determined after the pre-employment process.

There are substantial recruitment and retention incentives designed to attract and maintain qualified individuals in these critical positions. One-time recruitment incentives of $10,000 are available to eligible new hires who complete Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy (FLETC), along with a service agreement. Agents also qualify for Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP), a 25% extra pay to compensate for frequent additional duty hours, as well as retention incentives based on assignment location. Progression through grade levels is largely automatic based on time in service and meeting performance and training requirements.

The Marine Interdiction Agent position requires a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), which verifies the maritime operational qualifications of candidates. Applicants must demonstrate specialized law enforcement experience or meet education thresholds such as a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree, or a combination of advanced education and experience. Citizenship and residency requirements apply, and the position mandates successful completion of rigorous federal law enforcement training with ongoing requirements to maintain certification and readiness. The role entails physical and operational demands, including possible travel and assignments in various geographic regions.

Beyond competitive pay and grade advancement, the federal employment package includes robust benefits such as comprehensive health and dental insurance, generous leave entitlements, and retirement options including the Thrift Savings Plan. The overall package ensures Marine Interdiction Agents have strong support and resources to carry out their vital national security mission effectively. For those with the credentials and dedication to serve, this role offers a challenging, rewarding, and secure career path in federal maritime law enforcement.