Customs and Border Protection Officer

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers those interested in a career in law enforcement an exceptional 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. You will be part of the Department of Homeland Security workforce, protecting American interests and securing our nation. If you are looking for a rewarding career with great pay, benefits, and job stability, now is the time to make your move. As a Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO), 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 CBPO makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession. Typical assignments include: Enforcing customs, immigration, and agriculture laws and regulations. Facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel. Conducting inspections of individuals and conveyances. Determining the admissibility of individuals for entry into the United States. Preventing the illegal entry of individuals and prohibited goods and the smuggling of illegal drugs and other contraband. Duty Locations – Incentives available for some locations You will be asked to provide your preference for one of several mission-critical locations. Locations offered are based on operational needs and may differ from your preferences. Salary – and Duty Location Recruitment Incentives – and Benefits Annual Base Salary: GS-5 and GS-7: $40,332 - $109,952 per year Note: A fully trained CBPO is eligible for up to $45,000 in overtime pay annually. This is a career ladder position with promotion potential up to GS-12. You will be eligible for promotion to the next higher grade after 52 weeks at each level, subject to agency discretion. CBPOs receive comprehensive federal benefits including health, dental, vision, sick and annual leave, and retirement plans including a Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a Roth 401(k)). Recruitment Incentives: For eligible locations, you may receive an additional 10–25% of salary for the first 3–4 years depending on the location. These incentives apply to new federal employees and are subject to funding. Qualifications: GS-5: One of the following: Experience: Three years of full-time general work experience demonstrating ability to interact with the public and apply information. Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Combination: A combination of general work experience and college education. GS-7: One of the following: Experience: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level including inspections, law enforcement, and regulatory compliance. Education: A bachelor’s degree with Superior Academic Achievement (3.0+ GPA or honor society membership), or one year of graduate-level education. Combination: A combination of specialized experience and graduate education. If you have prior law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify for GS-9. Check the GS-9 CBPO listing on USAJOBS. Other Requirements: Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen. Residency: Must have lived in the U.S. for 3 of the last 5 years. Age Limit: Must be referred before turning 40 (some exceptions apply for federal or veteran candidates). Veterans: Eligible for VRA appointment; age limit may not apply. Formal Training: Two-week paid pre-academy orientation followed by a 101-day CBP Field Operations Academy at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Glynco, GA. Training includes law enforcement procedures, immigration law, Spanish language, physical fitness, and firearms. How to Apply: Click the Apply button to access the CBP Talent Network. Choose “Customs and Border Protection Officer” as your position of interest. You will then be directed to the official job posting on USAJOBS to submit your application. Make sure to follow all instructions and include required documents such as resume and transcripts. You will be evaluated based on your application materials and CBPO Entrance Exam. As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you will receive monthly updates about webinars, hiring events, and future CBP opportunities.

Created: 2025-09-25