Air Interdiction Pilot

Pilot-CBP Air Interdiction Specialist NEW RECRUITMENT INCENTIVES AVAILABLE! Join U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as an Air Interdiction Pilot and become part of the elite Air and Marine Operations (AMO) team. If you are a skilled pilot passionate about law enforcement, this is your opportunity to protect America while enjoying a rewarding career. AMO seeks full-time Air Interdiction Agents (AIAs) with a streamlined application process. If you're a seasoned pilot or have military experience, we want you to apply today! Don’t miss out on exceptional incentives—see salary details below! Key Responsibilities As an Air Interdiction Agent, you will conduct aviation-based law enforcement operations aimed at preventing illegal activities and protecting national security. Your primary duties will include: Performing air patrol and surveillance to interdict smuggled contraband. Monitoring and analyzing behavior patterns of individuals and vehicles suspected of illegal activities. Collecting and refining intelligence information to support operational strategies. Engaging in search and rescue missions and providing humanitarian aid. Salary and Benefits Beginning your journey as an Air Interdiction Agent, you can earn between $85,270 and $110,846 annually, depending on qualifications for the GS-11 grade level, with potential additional compensation based on your duty location. New hires may be eligible for a one-time Recruitment Incentive of $10,000 after completing Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy (FLETC) along with a one-year service agreement. Your starting salary will encompass special salary rates, availability pay, and various incentives. This is a career ladder position with progression opportunities through GS-11, GS-12, and GS-13, allowing for automatic promotion upon meeting qualifications after one year at each level with supervisor approval. Compensation Examples: 1st year at GS-11: $106,588 2nd year at GS-12: $127,754 3rd year at GS-13: $151,918 Qualifications Experience: To qualify for the GS-11 level, you need at least one year of specialized aviation experience, including: Serving as Pilot-in-Command or sole manipulator of aircraft in varied and challenging conditions. Making quick, informed decisions in-flight operations. Coordinating aircraft and asset strategies. Utilizing information systems for surveys and data dissemination. Minimum Requirements: Certification & Ratings: A current FAA Commercial or ATP Pilot Certification with specific ratings is required: Dual Rated: Airplane with instrument rating AND Rotorcraft Helicopter with instrument rating. Airplane Rated: Airplane with instrument rating. Helicopter Rated: Rotorcraft Helicopter with instrument rating. Equivalently rated military certification. Flight Hours: A minimum of 1,500 flight hours is needed, with a potential waiver allowing a reduction to 1,000 hours for qualified candidates. You will also need to meet specific hour requirements in various categories within the last twelve months. An FAA Class 2 medical certificate is required for assessment within the last year. Other Requirements Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen. Residency: Primary U.S. residency for three of the last five years is required. Age Requirement: Must be under the age of 40 for initial appointment, with waivers for veterans available. Veterans' preference eligibility will ensure compliance with hiring statutes. Training: Complete required training courses as a condition of employment. Travel may be necessary based on operational demands. Application Process There are three options for applying to become an Air Interdiction Agent: Fill out the Air Interdiction Agent applicant checklist and email it to a recruiter along with your resume. Apply on USAJOBS. Apply via Airline Apps. Stay informed by opting into CBP's talent repository for updates on recruitment events and opportunities.

Created: 2026-03-05