Customs and Border Protection Officer - Entry Level

Position Overview

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers an exceptional opportunity for individuals interested in law enforcement to work with an elite team dedicated to protecting American interests and securing our nation. As a Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO), you will be part of the Department of Homeland Security workforce that safeguards our borders, facilitates legitimate trade and travel, and deters illicit activity – all while enjoying great pay, job stability, and an array of benefits.

Key Responsibilities

• Enforce customs, immigration, and agriculture laws and regulations.
• Facilitate the flow of legitimate trade and travel.
• Conduct inspections of individuals and conveyances.
• Determine the admissibility of individuals for entry into the United States.
• Prevent the illegal entry of individuals and contraband including illicit drugs.

Required Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. Citizen with primary U.S. residency (including protectorates) for at least 3 of the last 5 years.
• For GS-5 eligibility: Possess a bachelor's degree or a minimum of 3 years full-time general work experience demonstrating effective interpersonal skills and the ability to learn and apply a body of facts; or a combination of education and experience.
• For GS-7 eligibility: Either one year of specialized work experience performing inspections, document reviews, and applying Federal, State, or local laws; a bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement; or a full year of graduate-level education. A combination of specialized experience and graduate education may also qualify.
• Ability to successfully complete a paid pre-academy orientation and a 101-day training program at the CBP Field Operations Academy.
• Must meet age restrictions applicable to new federal law enforcement appointments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience is preferred and may qualify you for advanced grade levels (e.g., GS-9).
• Knowledge of federal laws and regulations, immigration procedures, and customs processes.

Benefits & Perks

• Recruitment Incentive: Newly appointed CBPOs can receive up to $15,000 per year (depending on duty location and service contract duration).
• Compensation: Annual base salary for GS-5 and GS-7 ranges from $40,332 to $109,952, with eligibility for up to $45,000 in overtime pay upon full training completion.
• Comprehensive federal employment benefits including health, dental, and other insurance plans.
• Generous annual leave, sick leave, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (retirement options similar to traditional and ROTH 401(k)).