Border Patrol Agent - Entry Level

Position Overview

The U.S. Border Patrol is hiring full-time, entry-level Border Patrol Agents to protect America’s borders and safeguard our nation’s security. This career law enforcement opportunity offers a dynamic work environment, potential relocation, and assignments that may include the Southwest Border. If you seek an exciting, rewarding job with excellent Compensation and federal job stability, now is the time to make your move.

IMPORTANT: Duty assignments at the time of offer may include prioritized locations. Newly appointed agents will be offered recruitment incentives and additional incentives for prioritized assignments.

Key Responsibilities

• Detect, prevent, and apprehend undocumented noncitizens and smugglers at or near land borders.
• Respond to electronic sensor alarms and interpret tracks, marks, and physical evidence during operations.
• Conduct anti-smuggling activities including farm, ranch, traffic, and city patrols.
• Patrol international boundaries and coastal waterways using various government assets.
• Travel occasionally as required based on operational needs.

Required Qualifications

• To qualify for the GL-5 entry-level, candidates must have one year of general work experience or a bachelor’s degree or a combination of both.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen with at least three of the last five years of primary U.S. residency.
• Must meet federal law enforcement age requirements (referral prior to the 40th birthday, unless exempt).

Preferred Qualifications

• Current or prior law enforcement or military law enforcement experience.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: Annual base salary ranges vary by grade (GL-5: $49,739–$61,833; GL-7: $56,623–$71,615; GL-9: $63,148–$81,480; GS-11: $73,939–$96,116) with potential additional pay of up to 25% for fully trained agents.
• Recruitment Incentives: Up to $30,000 in incentives, including $20,000 for newly appointed agents and an additional $10,000 for those accepting prioritized locations.
• Federal benefits including health, dental, generous annual and sick leave programs, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan.
• Intensive formal training at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy covering law enforcement procedures, immigration laws, and language proficiency training.