Marine Interdiction Agent

Air and Marine Operations (AMO), a vital component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), offers an exceptional career opportunity for individuals possessing Merchant Mariner Credentials to serve as Marine Interdiction Agents (MIA). This federal law enforcement agency is dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s borders by preventing illegal activities such as terrorism, smuggling, and unauthorized entry via maritime routes. AMO stands as a premier law enforcement organization that blends maritime expertise with cutting-edge technology to protect America's shores and interests. As a Marine Interdiction Agent, you will be joining a highly trained and elite team known for their camaraderie, pride, and unwavering commitment to mission success. The position offers a full-time, security-based role with competitive pay, excellent federal benefits, and job stability, making it a rewarding career choice.

Starting salaries for this role range significantly based on qualifications and duty location, with GS-11 grade level pay between $76,745 and $142,199 annually. Additional compensation includes Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) of 25%, retention incentives that can add another 25%, and locality pay adjustments depending on your assigned location. Recruitment incentives of up to $10,000 may be offered to eligible new hires upon completion of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy (FLETC), subject to a one-year service agreement.

Marine Interdiction Agents perform marine-based law enforcement operations to detect, prevent, and interdict terrorists, weapons, contraband, and unauthorized persons from entering or attacking the United States. The role demands expertise in monitoring suspicious activities, interpreting radar data for successful vessel interdiction, conducting searches of persons and cargo, and analyzing strategic intelligence. This position requires the ability to operate in dynamic environments, responding swiftly to maritime threats and collaborating with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.

Duty locations vary widely within the Southwest, Southeast, and Caribbean regions, including cities such as Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Marathon FL, Key West, Key Largo, Fajardo, Mayaguez, Ponce, San Juan PR, and Saint Thomas, VI, among others. Applicants willing to accept duty assignment at priority locations improve their chances of final selection. The work environment is challenging and dynamic, requiring agents to demonstrate physical fitness, excellent judgment, and resilience.

Advancement is built into the Marine Interdiction Agent career ladder, with automatic promotion eligibility from GS-11 to GS-12 and GS-13 grades after successful completion of a 52-week period at each grade, alongside supervisor approval and required training or certification. Agents enjoy an array of federal benefits including health and dental insurance, generous leave programs, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement savings program similar to both traditional and Roth 401(k) plans.

This role is ideal for candidates eager to serve their country in a meaningful law enforcement capacity while leveraging their maritime credentials. The comprehensive training and incentive programs, combined with a clear path to career progression, make this an outstanding opportunity for individuals passionate about maritime security and law enforcement. Joining AMO as a Marine Interdiction Agent means joining a dedicated team that values integrity, service, and the protection of the United States’ borders and maritime interests.