Border Patrol Agent - Entry Level

Border Patrol Agent - Entry Level

Location:

Various U.S. Border Patrol Duty Stations (Relocation May Be Required)

Job Type: Full-Time | Federal Law Enforcement Career

The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) is seeking entry-level candidates to join as Border Patrol Agents (GL-5). This position is designed for individuals beginning a federal law enforcement career who want to help protect the nation’s borders. Agents detect and prevent illegal entry, smuggling activities, and other violations of immigration and customs laws while safeguarding the public. This role offers professional training, career advancement opportunities, and competitive federal benefits.

• Experience:
  
  One year of general work experience demonstrating decision‑making ability, leadership, sound judgment, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Education:
  
  A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in any field.
• Combination: A combination of general work experience and college education.
• Citizenship:
  Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Residency:
  Must have had primary U.S. residency for at least three of the last five years.
• Age Restriction:
  Candidates must be referred for selection before reaching their 40th birthday, unless covered by specific federal civilian law enforcement retirement provisions.
• Veterans’ Preference:
  Eligibility for an excepted service Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA) may exempt age restriction criteria.

Annual base salary for newly appointed BPAs varies per grade: $51,632–$92,219 per year. Border Patrol Agents are eligible to select from an array of federal employment benefits that include health, dental, and other insurance plans, a generous annual and sick leave program, participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (a retirement plan akin to a traditional Roth 401(k)), and up to $60,000 in additional incentives.