Marine Interdiction Agent

Air and Marine Operations (AMO), a vital component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), offers a unique and prestigious career opportunity as a Marine Interdiction Agent (MIA). As part of the nation's largest law enforcement organization responsible for securing U.S. borders, AMO plays a critical role in safeguarding national security and facilitating lawful international trade and travel. This federal agency combines a firehouse of elite professionals who protect the nation on land, air, and sea with a mission that demands vigilance, expertise, and pride.

A Marine Interdiction Agent is a law enforcement professional who specializes in marine-based operations aimed at detecting, preventing, and apprehending individuals and contraband attempting to illegally enter or threaten U.S. borders via waterways. This role requires candidates to hold qualifying Merchant Mariner Credentials and excel in a variety of physically and mentally demanding law enforcement operations on the water. The position promises competitive pay, extensive federal benefits, and job security with growth opportunities within a structured federal career ladder ranging from GS-11 to GS-13 levels. Compensation varies by location and qualifications, with salaries starting around $76,745 and potentially reaching over $190,000 per year when including locality pay, law enforcement availability pay, and retention incentives.

AMO Marine Interdiction Agents undergo rigorous training, including completing the Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy (FLETC), after which eligible new hires may receive significant recruitment incentives. The role offers federal employment benefits such as health and dental insurance, generous leave policies, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a retirement savings plan similar to traditional and Roth 401(k) plans. Agents execute complex duties such as monitoring suspect behaviors, interpreting radar signals for vessel tracking and interdiction, conducting searches for contraband, collecting intelligence, and working closely with attorneys during legal proceedings.

This position not only demands specialized maritime and law enforcement expertise but also requires the candidate to be a U.S. citizen with specific residency and age eligibility criteria due to federal law enforcement retirement provisions. The work locations are diverse, spanning several U.S. coastal and gulf ports and Caribbean territories, including Florida cities, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Washington State, and California. Flexibility regarding duty location enhances candidate selection opportunities.

Ultimately, a career as a Marine Interdiction Agent offers an exciting and impactful path for individuals seeking to serve their country with distinction. These agents play an indispensable role in protecting America's maritime borders from threats such as terrorism and smuggling, offering a career rich in purpose, responsibility, and professional development within the federal law enforcement community.