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- Tasks: Protect the borders, prevent illegal activities, and ensure national security.
- Company: Join U.S. Customs and Border Protection, a leading federal law enforcement agency.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, health benefits, and recruitment incentives up to $30,000.
- Why this job: Be part of an elite team with a mission to safeguard America and make a difference.
- Qualifications: Must be a U.S. citizen; experience or education in law enforcement is a plus.
- Other info: Receive extensive training at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 78000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Border Patrol Agent – Entry Level role at U.S. Customs and Border Protection
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Join to apply for the Border Patrol Agent – Entry Level role at U.S. Customs and Border Protection
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U.S. Customs and Border Protection provided pay range
This range is provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range
$49,739.00/yr – $89,518.00/yr
Border Patrol Agent (BPA) GL-5/7 grade levels
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Duty assignments available at the time of offer may include the Southwest Border, including prioritized locations.
U.S. Border Patrol determines duty assignments at the time of offer based on operational needs, which may or may not align with candidates’ first-choice preferences. Relocation may be required.
EARN UP TO $30,000 IN RECRUITMENT INCENTIVES — Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents (BPA) will be offered a $20,000 incentive. The first $10,000 to be paid upon successfully completing training at the Border Patrol Academy, and the remainder to be paid in full after completing a three-year service agreement. New BPAs accepting a prioritized location (Sierra Blanca, Presidio, Sanderson, Comstock, Freer, and Hebbronville, TX; Lordsburg, NM; or Ajo, AZ) will be eligible for an additional $10,000.
Applicants currently in pre-employment do not need to reapply to be eligible for the incentive.
The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) offers those interested in a career in law enforcement an opportunity to work with an elite team of highly trained professionals whose camaraderie, pride, and purpose are hallmarks of their daily mission of protecting America.
If you seek an exciting and rewarding job that provides excellent pay, exceptional federal benefits, and job stability, now is the time to make your move. U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), within the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is hiring immediately for these full-time, entry-level, career Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) opportunities.
Salary And Benefits
Annual Base Salary for newly appointed BPAs varies per grade, as follows:
- GL-5/GL-7 $49,739- $89,518 per year
Duty location impacts pay rates; locality pay for federal law enforcement is higher in some locations than others. A fully trained BPA may be eligible for up to an additional 25% of base pay per the BPA Pay Reform Act of 2014. This is a career ladder position with a grade level progression of GL-5, GL-7, GL-9, GS-11, and GS-12. You will be eligible for a promotion to the next higher grade level (without reapplying) once you successfully complete 52 weeks in each grade level.
Border Patrol Agents are eligible to select from an array of federal employment benefits that include health, dental and other insurance plans, a generous annual and sick leave program, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement plan akin to a traditional ROTH 401(k) offering.
Duties And Responsibilities
As a BPA, you will be part of our 60,000+ workforce that strives to protect the American people by safeguarding our borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation’s economic prosperity. Being a BPA makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession.
Typical Assignments Include
- Detecting and questioning people suspected of violating immigration and custom laws and inspecting documents and possessions to determine citizenship or violations
- Preventing and apprehending undocumented noncitizens and smugglers of noncitizens at or near the borders by maintaining surveillance from covert positions to include using infrared scopes during night operations
- Interpreting and following tracks, marks, and other physical evidence of illegal entry of persons or contraband
- Performing farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, city patrols, and transportation checks
- Patrolling the international boundary and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets such as vehicles, horses, vessels, watercraft, off-road vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles for the accomplishment of the USBP Mission.
Qualifications
You qualify for the GL-5 grade level if you possess one of the following:
Experience: One (1) year of general work experience that demonstrates the ability to take charge, make sound decisions, and maintain composure in stressful situations; to learn regulations, methods, and techniques through classroom training and/or on-the-job instruction; and the ability to gather concise information through questioning, observation, and examination of documents and records; OR
Education Substitution: A bachelor\’s degree or successful completion of a full four-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor\’s degree from an accredited college or university; OR
Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of general work experience AND successfully completed college education. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application.
You qualify for the GL-7 grade level if you possess one of the following:
Experience: One year of specialized work experience that shows you have the skills necessary to:
- Make sound judgments and decisions in the use of firearms.
- Deal effectively with people in a courteous and tactful manner in connection with law enforcement matters.
- Analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions where you will be expected to make arrests after the completion of required training and apply these skills in a law enforcement capacity such as criminal code enforcement, determining violations of laws, correctional or rehabilitation work involving criminal offenders, security, military, etc.
The above experience will be applied in connection with the following: Make arrests and exercise sound judgment in the use of firearms; deal effectively with people in a courteous manner in connection with law enforcement matters; analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions; or develop and maintain contact with a network of informants.
Education Substitution for the GL-7 grade level: A bachelor\’s degree with superior academic achievement, which is based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average (i.e., GPA of 3.0 or higher out of a possible 4.0), or (3) honor society membership. Or will receive a bachelor\’s degree with Superior Academic Achievement. Or one full year of graduate-level education in a field of study related to law enforcement (e.g., criminal justice, homeland security, justice studies, law enforcement, courts and judicial systems, forensic technology, forensic psychology, or corrections and rehabilitation) from an accredited college or university;OR
A Combination of Experience and Education: This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application.
Note: If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GL-9 and or GS-11 grade level. Please refer to the BPA GL-9 – 11 announcement.
Other Requirements
Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position.
Residency: You must have had primary U.S. residency (includes protectorates as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five years.
Age Restriction: In accordance with Public Law 100-238, this position is covered under law enforcement retirement provisions. Candidates must be referred for selection to the Border Patrol Agent position before reaching their 40th birthday in accordance with Department of Homeland Security Directive 251-03. The age restriction may not apply if you are currently serving or have previously served in a federal civilian law enforcement (non-military) position covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d).
Veterans’ Preference: You may also be eligible for an excepted service Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA). The age restriction does not apply if you are Veterans\’ Preference eligible.
Formal Training: After you are hired, you will be detailed to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six (6) months of intensive instruction in immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement and USBP-specific operations, driver training, physical techniques, firearms, and other courses. Border Patrol work requires the ability to speak and read Spanish, as well as English. Border Patrol Agents will be provided training to become proficient with the Spanish language at the Academy.
How To Apply
Click the Apply button on this site. You will be linked to the CBP Talent Network registration page. For Position of Interest, select Border Patrol Agent, then complete the pre-screening questions.
You’ll then receive a link(s) to the BPA Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS, the federal government’s official employment site, to complete your application. Be certain to review ALL details of the job opportunity announcement and follow all instructions in the application process, including items (resume, transcripts, etc.) to submit. You will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the BPA Entrance Exam.
If you have questions about the application process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol page: careers.cbp.gov/s/usbp.
As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you’ll receive monthly emails with information about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with CBP.
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Border Patrol Agent - Entry Level employer: U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Contact Detail:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Border Patrol Agent - Entry Level
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties and responsibilities of a Border Patrol Agent. Understanding the day-to-day tasks will help you articulate your interest and suitability for the role during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Border Patrol Agents to gain insights into their experiences. This can provide you with valuable information that you can use to tailor your approach and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the BPA Entrance Exam by reviewing relevant materials and practice tests. A strong performance on this exam is crucial, as it plays a significant role in the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current events related to immigration and border security. Being knowledgeable about these topics can help you engage in meaningful discussions during interviews and show your passion for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Border Patrol Agent - Entry Level
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Border Patrol Agent position. Familiarise yourself with the duties listed in the job description to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your resume and cover letter, emphasise any relevant work experience or education that aligns with the qualifications for the GL-5 or GL-7 grade levels. Be specific about your skills in decision-making, law enforcement, or any related fields.
Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather all necessary documents such as your resume, transcripts, and any proof of relevant experience. Ensure these documents are up-to-date and clearly demonstrate how you meet the qualifications for the role.
Follow Application Instructions: When applying through the CBP Talent Network, carefully follow all instructions provided in the job announcement. Make sure to complete the pre-screening questions and submit all required documents to avoid any issues with your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at U.S. Customs and Border Protection
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Familiarise yourself with the duties and responsibilities of a Border Patrol Agent. Understand the key skills required, such as decision-making under pressure and effective communication. This will help you answer questions confidently and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Whether it's work experience or education, be ready to discuss how your background aligns with the qualifications for the GL-5 or GL-7 grade levels. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to handle stressful situations and make sound judgments.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and judgement. Practice responding to hypothetical situations related to law enforcement, such as dealing with difficult individuals or making quick decisions in high-pressure environments.
✨Showcase Your Commitment to Service
Emphasise your dedication to protecting the community and serving the nation. Share any relevant volunteer work or experiences that reflect your commitment to public service, as this is a core value for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
