Marine Interdiction Agent

Air and Marine Operations (AMO) is a specialized division of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), recognized as the nation's largest law enforcement organization dedicated to safeguarding our country's borders through advanced air and marine enforcement operations. AMO plays a pivotal role in intercepting unlawful entries, thwarting smuggling attempts, and protecting America from a wide range of threats, including terrorism and illegal trafficking. By employing cutting-edge technology and highly trained personnel, AMO ensures the integrity of our national borders while facilitating lawful international travel and trade. The organization is committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, operational excellence, and safety, making it a leader in federal law enforcement.

The Marine Interdiction Agent (MIA) position offers an exceptional opportunity for individuals holding Merchant Mariner Credentials to pursue a challenging and rewarding career in maritime law enforcement. This full-time career position marries specialized maritime expertise with critical law enforcement duties, placing agents at the forefront of efforts to prevent illegal activities in U.S. territorial waters and along coastal borders. Marine Interdiction Agents are entrusted with the critical responsibility of detecting, preventing, and apprehending terrorists, terrorist weapons, contraband, and unauthorized individuals attempting to enter or attack the United States by water.

This role is designed for dynamic professionals seeking both a meaningful mission and career stability, offering a competitive salary range from $73,939 to $96,116 at the GS-11 grade level, with higher pay levels reaching GS-12 and GS-13 grades based on experience and location. Agents can earn additional compensation through locality pay, Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP), and retention incentives, especially at strategic duty locations such as Florida, Puerto Rico, and California. The federal employment package includes comprehensive health and dental insurance, generous leave benefits, and a robust retirement plan featuring the Thrift Savings Plan, similar to a traditional and Roth 401(k).

Agents undergo rigorous training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy (FLETC), post which eligible new hires may receive a $10,000 recruitment incentive for committing to at least one year of service. This training and subsequent field work prepare agents to operate sophisticated surveillance and interdiction equipment, conduct thorough investigations, arrest suspects, and prepare extensive reports critical for legal proceedings. Career advancement opportunities exist through promotions to GS-12 and GS-13 levels, contingent on satisfactory performance and successful completion of mandatory training and certification.

Marine Interdiction Agents serve at various duty locations within the Southwest Region, Southeast Region, and Caribbean Air and Marine Branch, covering critical points such as Fort Lauderdale, Miami, San Juan (Puerto Rico), Key West (Florida), Long Beach (California), and other key ports. Flexibility in duty location preference enhances the chances of final job placement. The role requires U.S. citizenship, residency within the United States for at least three of the past five years, and specialized knowledge validated by holding a USCG Merchant Mariner Credential. Applicants must meet age and service eligibility criteria aligned with federal law enforcement retirement provisions and affirmative veteran preference policies where applicable.

With its blend of maritime expertise, law enforcement rigor, and federal service benefits, the Marine Interdiction Agent position is designed for those ready to commit to protecting America’s shores against complex and evolving marine threats while enjoying a stable and rewarding federal career.