You qualify for the GS-5 grade level if you possess one of the following:
Veterans' Preference : You may also be eligible for an excepted service Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA). The age restriction does not apply if you are Veterans' Preference eligible.
Experience: A minimum of three (3) years full-time general work experience that demonstrates the ability to meet and deal with people and the ability to learn and be able to apply a body of facts;
You qualify for the GS-7 grade level if you possess one of the following:
Formal Training : You will be required to complete a paid pre-academy orientation for approximately two (2) weeks at your home port. You will then attend a 101-day training program – CBP Field Operations Academy – conducted at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) located in Glynco, GA. This training consists of basic law enforcement skills, immigration laws, firearms training, examination of cargo/bags/merchandise, physical fitness, etc. Candidates assigned to the southern border, Miami, or Puerto Rico duty locations must attend and pass an online Spanish training program, which will be completed at their home port. Successful completion of the Academy is required for this position.
Utilizing observational techniques, evaluating facts, and reviewing documentation while applying Federal, State, or local laws and regulations.
Successful completion of the Academy is required for this position.
Making determinations in compliance with laws and regulations that may lead to arrests, seizure of property, fines, and/or penalties based on findings.
Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average (3.0 or higher), or (3) honor society membership; OR one (1) full year of graduate-level education.
Residency : You must have had primary U.S. residency (includes protectorates as declared under international law) for at least three (3) of the last five (5) years.
Experience: A minimum of one (1) year of specialized full-time work experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level that includes:
Formal Training : You will be required to complete a paid pre-academy orientation for approximately two (2) weeks at your home port. You will then attend a 101-day training program – CBP Field Operations Academy – conducted at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) located in Glynco, GA. This training consists of basic law enforcement skills, immigration laws, firearms training, examination of cargo/bags/merchandise, physical fitness, etc.
Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of successfully completed college education AND general work experience. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial college transcripts submitted with your application.
Age Restriction : In accordance with Public Law 100-238, this position is covered under law enforcement retirement provisions. Candidates must be referred for selection to the Customs and Border Protection Officer position before reaching their 40th birthday in accordance with Department of Homeland Security Directive 251-03. The age restriction may not apply if you are currently serving or have previously served in a federal civilian law enforcement (non-military) position covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d).
Performing physical inspections of people, documents or goods for criminal activity, fraud, and/or illegal operations.
Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree or successful completion of a full four (4)-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university;
Citizenship : You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position.
Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of specialized work experience equivalent to the next lower grade level AND graduate level education from an accredited college or university. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application.
If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GS-9 grade level. See the GS-9 Job Opportunity Announcement (JOAs) at USAJOBS, the federal government's official employment site to determine if you qualify.
Spanish training program requirement: Candidates assigned to the southern border, Miami, or Puerto Rico duty locations must attend and pass an online Spanish training program, which will be completed at their home port.
This training consists of basic law enforcement skills, immigration laws, firearms training, examination of cargo/bags/merchandise, physical fitness, etc.

SmartExplore AI is experimental.

Apply Directly

Border Patrol Agent (BPA) – in the Federal Security and Public Safety Sector(Entry Level)

US Customs & Border Protection

Washington, DC 20002

$51,632-$92,219/yr

Bilingual PreferredHealth InsurancePaid Time OffRetirement Benefit

Apply Directly

Commit to Serve Your City Year! (Full Pay/Benefits – Academic Mentor)

City Year

Washington, DC 20542

OnsiteChildcare AssistanceEducation AssistanceHealth Insurance

Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident (Authorization to work in the U.S. is not sufficient. Those with DACA status unfortunately are not eligible at this time)
Agree to and complete a background check
Be 17-25 by July 1, 2025
Have a GED or high school diploma, some college experience, or college degree
Have served no more than three terms in an AmeriCorps state or national program*
Be able to begin City Year by July/August 2025 (specific start date varies by location)

SmartExplore AI is experimental.

Apply Directly