Border Patrol Agent - Entry Level

Position Overview

Border Patrol Agent (BPA) is a full-time, entry-level law enforcement opportunity with the U.S. Border Patrol. In this role you will safeguard America’s borders, deter illicit activity, and support national security with an elite team of professionals. This career offers excellent pay, federal benefits, and attractive recruitment incentives; however, duty assignments (which may require relocation) are determined based on operational needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Detect and question individuals suspected of violating immigration and customs laws, including inspecting documents and possessions.
• Prevent and apprehend undocumented noncitizens and smugglers by maintaining covert surveillance and employing equipment such as infrared scopes during night operations.
• Interpret tracks, marks, and other physical evidence to identify illegal entry or contraband.
• Perform various security checks including farm, building, traffic, city patrols, and transportation inspections.
• Patrol international boundaries and coastal waterways using a variety of assets including vehicles, horses, ATVs, and motorcycles.

Required Qualifications

• For GL‑5: One year of general work experience demonstrating leadership and sound decision-making, or a bachelor’s degree (or an equivalent combination of both).
• For GL‑7: One year of specialized law enforcement or related experience, or a bachelor’s degree with superior academic achievement (or one year of graduate-level education in a related field), or an equivalent combination.
• Must be a U.S. citizen with at least three of the last five years as primary U.S. residency.
• Applicants need to meet age requirements and be referred for selection before reaching their 40th birthday, unless eligible under specific exemptions.
• Successful completion of the intensive training at the U.S. Border Patrol Academy is required.

Benefits & Perks

• Recruitment Incentives: Newly appointed BPAs may earn up to $30,000, including a $20,000 incentive tied to training completion and an additional $10,000 for serving in prioritized locations.
• Compensation: Annual base salary ranges from $49,739 to $89,518 (depending on grade), plus potential locality pay and additional incentives under the BPA Pay Reform Act.
• Federal Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive health, dental, and other insurance plans, generous annual and sick leave programs, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan retirement option.
• Career Progression: This position offers a career ladder with automatic promotion potential—from GL‑5 to GL‑7, GL‑9, GS‑11, and GS‑12—after successfully completing required time in each grade.