Marine Interdiction Agent

Air and Marine Operations (AMO) is a specialized division of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), dedicated to safeguarding America's borders through air and maritime law enforcement activities. AMO is renowned for its elite teams of highly trained professionals who execute critical missions involving the interdiction of terrorists, contraband, and other unlawful activities that threaten national security. With a focus on technological expertise and tactical proficiency, AMO plays a pivotal role in monitoring and securing the nation's borders, working across diverse environments and geographical locations. This organization offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for individuals committed to public safety and national defense, with comprehensive benefits, competitive pay, and job stability typical of federal employment.

The Marine Interdiction Agent (MIA) role is a full-time, law enforcement position within AMO that offers an exceptional career opportunity for individuals holding qualifying Merchant Mariner Credentials. The MIA position involves conducting marine-based law enforcement operations designed to detect, prevent, and interdict illegal activities involving persons, vessels, and cargo at U.S. borders. MIAs operate as part of a dedicated team, performing critical duties such as monitoring suspect behaviors, interpreting radar data for vessel tracking, conducting searches for contraband or weapons, and gathering and analyzing intelligence to support interdiction efforts. This role requires a unique blend of maritime knowledge, law enforcement skills, and intelligence capabilities.

This career ladder position starts at the GS-11 grade level with opportunities for automatic promotion to GS-12 and GS-13 after completing required service periods and additional training. Salary ranges for the MIA position reflect the demanding nature of the job, with pay varying by duty location and qualifications. For example, annual pay in the Caribbean Air and Marine Branch (CAMB) locations can start at approximately $105,931 for GS-11, progressing to $164,075 by GS-13. Comparable salaries are available at other regional duty locations such as Key West, FL and Long Beach, CA, with the potential for even higher earnings when considering locality adjustments and retention incentives. New hires may also be eligible for a $10,000 recruitment incentive after completing the Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy, adding to the financial attractiveness of this career.

Marine Interdiction Agents benefit from a range of federal employment perks including health and dental insurance, participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (a retirement plan similar to a 401(k)), and generous annual and sick leave programs. The position requires candidates to be U.S. citizens with at least three years of primary U.S. residency and to meet specific age requirements linked to law enforcement retirement provisions. Candidates must also possess a valid Merchant Mariner Credential, demonstrating their qualification in maritime operations. Training requirements are rigorous, ensuring that all agents meet CBP standards for operational readiness and effectiveness.

Duty locations are diverse and may include key areas within the Southwest, Southeast, Northern Regions, and Caribbean Air and Marine Branch sites, with applicants encouraged to remain flexible to increase their chances of selection. Travel may be required based on operational needs, reflecting the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable nature of the assignments. Overall, the Marine Interdiction Agent position offers a challenging and fulfilling career for those interested in maritime law enforcement within a well-respected federal agency offering competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.