The U.S. Border Patrol, a division of Customs and Border Protection (CBP), offers rewarding law enforcement careers protecting America’s borders. Here’s your complete guide to finding and applying for Border Patrol positions through USAJOBS.gov.
1. Current Border Patrol Job Openings
Primary Positions Available:
- Border Patrol Agent (GL-5/7/9)
- Entry-level enforcement position
- Starting salary: $48,809 – $71,984 (plus locality pay)
- Requires bachelor’s degree OR equivalent experience
- Border Patrol Processing Coordinator (GS-5/7)
- Support role handling detainee processing
- Starting salary: $39,576 – $63,733
View all openings at: USAJOBS Border Patrol Search
2. Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements
✔ U.S. citizenship
✔ Valid driver’s license
✔ Age requirement: Under 40 (waivers possible for veterans)
✔ Physical fitness standards
✔ Clean background (full investigation required)
Step 2: Create USAJOBS Profile
- Register at USAJOBS.gov
- Complete profile with education/work history
- Upload required documents (DD-214 if veteran)
Step 3: Submit Application
- Search “Border Patrol Agent” or announcement # (e.g., BPA-24-123)
- Click “Apply” and follow prompts
- Complete occupational questionnaire
Step 4: Complete Hiring Steps
- Written Exam (Logic Reasoning test)
- Physical Fitness Test (push-ups, sit-ups, running)
- Structured Interview
- Medical Examination
- Polygraph Examination
- Background Investigation
3. Key Application Tips
✅ Use the Resume Builder – Federal resumes require detailed work history
✅ Apply Early – Some announcements close after 100 applications
✅ Prepare for Tests – Study logical reasoning/artificial language exams
✅ Be Mobile – Willingness to relocate increases hiring chances
4. Border Patrol Benefits
- Law Enforcement Retirement (Covered under 6C)
- Locality Pay (Higher near borders)
- Overtime Opportunities (BPAPRA pay program)
- Federal Health Insurance
- Tuition Assistance
5. Common Disqualifiers
❌ Drug use (including recent marijuana)
❌ Significant financial delinquencies
❌ Criminal record (felonies, domestic violence)
❌ Failure to pass physical/fitness tests
6. Training Information
Border Patrol Academy (Artesia, NM):
- 20-week paid training program
- Spanish language instruction
- Federal law and operations training
- Physical conditioning
7. Alternative Pathways
For Recent Graduates:
- Recent Graduates Program (GS-5/7)
- Pathways Internship Program
For Veterans:
- Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA)
- 30% or More Disabled Veteran Program
Need Help? Contact CBP Hiring Center
📞 1-855-500-3722
✉ CBP Applicant Contact
Pro Tip: Set up a “Border Patrol” search alert on USAJOBS to be notified of new announcements!