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Entry-Level Border Patrol Agent – Up to $50K in Incentives
- Ames, Iowa
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- Full Time
- Public Safety
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Entry-Level Border Patrol Agent – Up to $50K in Incentives
- Ames, Iowa 50010 United States
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- Oct 23, 2026
- Full Time
U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Government jobs offer stability, competitive benefits, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on your community and country. Whether you’re starting your career or seeking new opportunities, these roles provide pathways for growth, security, and service. Explore positions across a wide range of fields and take the first step toward a rewarding future in public service.
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Job Details
- Full Time
- Oct 23, 2026
Job Description

Border Patrol Agent (BPA) With more than 69,000 employees, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is one of the world's largest law enforcement organizations and the largest federal law enforcement agency within the Department of Homeland Security. CBP protects the United States by preventing terrorists and their weapons from entering the country while facilitating lawful international travel and trade. As a Border Patrol Agent (BPA) within CBP, you will be a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession. CBP is urgently hiring to fill full-time, entry and mid-level, career positions where your education OR prior general or experience in public safety, security, military police or law enforcement may qualify. Along with excellent base pay, exceptional federal employment benefits, and job stability, CBP is offering additional recruitment and retention incentives (see details below) . Duties Typical assignments include: Detecting and questioning people suspected of violating immigration and custom laws and inspecting documents and possessions to determine citizenship or violations Preventing and apprehending undocumented noncitizens and smugglers of noncitizens at or near the borders by maintaining surveillance from covert positions to include using infrared scopes during night operations Interpreting and following tracks, marks, and other physical evidence of illegal entry of persons or contraband Performing farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, city patrols, and transportation checks Patrolling the international boundary and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets such as vehicles, horses, vessels, watercraft, off-road vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles for the accomplishment of the USBP Mission. Salary and Benefits Selections from this announcement will be at the GL-5, GL-7, GL-9 or GS-11 grade levels with promotion potential to the GS-12 grade level. Annual base salary for newly appointed BPAs varies per grade, from $51,632 - $124,717 per year. BPAs 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, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement plan akin to a traditional ROTH 401(k) offering. *Recruitment Incentive* *Recruitment Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents will be offered up to a $20,000 incentive. The first $10,000 will be paid upon successful completion of the academy, with the remaining $10,000 awarded for accepting a prioritized location. See the Duty Location section below for a list of prioritized locations. *Retention Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents may also qualify for up to $30,000 in additional incentives distributed over the next three years. Duty Locations Big Bend Sector Stations - Alpine, Marfa, Presidio, *Sanderson, *Sierra Blanca Blaine Sector Stations - Blaine, Bellingham, Port Angeles, Sumas Buffalo Sector Stations – Oswego Del Rio Sector Stations - *Comstock El Paso Sector Stations - Deming, *Lordsburg Grand Forks Sector Stations - Bottineau, International Falls, Pembina, Portal, Warroad Havre Sector Stations - Malta, Plentywood, Scobey, Sweetgrass Houlton Sector Stations - Calais, Houlton, Rangeley, Van Buren Laredo Sector Stations - Laredo West, *Hebbronville, *Freer New Orleans Sector Stations - Baton Rouge, Lake Charles, New Orleans San Diego Sector Stations - Boulevard, Brownfield, Campo Swanton Sector Stations - Beecher Falls, Massena, Newport, Ogdensburg, Richford, Swanton Tucson Sector Stations - Douglas, Brian A Terry, Three Points Substation Yuma Sector Stations – Blythe, *Ajo NOTE: The above preference locations are expected to have vacancies available in the future, however, if the duty locations do not have vacancies at the time of your final offer, you may be offered a different duty location within the United States. *Additional $10K Recruitment Incentive: Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents who select a prioritized location at the time of their final offer will receive an additional $10,000 incentive (total of $20,000). Prioritized locations include Sierra Blanca, TX; Presidio, TX; Sanderson, TX; Comstock, TX; Lordsburg, NM; Freer, TX; Hebbronville, TX; Ajo, AZ. Qualifications You qualify for the GL-5 grade level if you possess one of the following: Experience: One (1) year of general work experience that demonstrates the ability to take charge, make sound decisions, and maintain composure in stressful situations; to learn regulations, methods, and techniques through classroom training and/or on-the-job instruction; and the ability to gather concise information through questioning, observation, and examination of documents and records; OR Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree or successful completion of a full four-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; OR Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of general work experience AND successfully completed college education. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application. You qualify for the GL-7 grade level if you possess one of the following: Experience: One year of specialized work experience that shows you have the skills necessary to: Make sound judgments and decisions in the use of firearms. Deal effectively with people in a courteous and tactful manner in connection with law enforcement matters. Analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions where you will be expected to make arrests after the completion of required training and apply these skills in a law enforcement capacity such as criminal code enforcement, determining violations of laws, correctional or rehabilitation work involving criminal offenders, security, military, etc., OR Education Substitution for the GL-7 grade level: A bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement, which is based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average (i.e., GPA of 3.0 or higher out of a possible 4.0), or (3) honor society membership. Or will receive a bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement. Or one full year of graduate-level education in a field of study related to law enforcement (e.g., criminal justice, homeland security, justice studies, law enforcement, courts and judicial systems, forensic technology, forensic psychology, or corrections and rehabilitation) from an accredited college or university; OR A Combination of Experience and Education: This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application. Note: If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GL-9 and or GS-11 grade level. GL-9: You qualify for the GL-9 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as: Performing physical searches of detained individuals, their vehicles, and their immediate surroundings for weapons, contraband, currency, and other evidence Apprehending, physically restraining or working with law enforcement officials to identify or apprehend violators of state, federal, or immigration laws Proficient in the use of firearms, preparing investigative reports, serving court orders (e.g., warrants, subpoenas, etc.) and gathering evidence for criminal cases prosecuted through the court system GS-11: You qualify for the GS-11 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, with the authority granted by the state or government to enforce laws, make arrests, and investigate crimes, performing primary duties in an official law enforcement capacity such as: Utilizing intelligence information to track illegal operations, criminal activity, threats to our nation, and/or contraband while serving as a state, Federal, or military law enforcement official Leading investigations of fraud, contraband, criminal activity, threats to our nation, and/or illegal operations to determine sources and patterns while serving as a state, Federal, or military law enforcement official Apprehending violators of state, federal or immigration laws by utilizing various forms of complex technology that include surveillance, detection, situation awareness systems, and/or communications equipment The above experience will be applied in connection with the Border Patrol Individual Occupational Requirement: Make arrests and exercise sound judgment in the use of firearms; deal effectively with people in a courteous manner in connection with law enforcement matters; analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions; or develop and maintain contact with a network of informants. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics (KSAOs): Candidates who meet the minimum qualification requirements for the GL-9 or GS-11 grade levels are required to possess certain KSAOs to successfully perform the functions of this position. The KSAOs are: Knowledge of Immigration and Nationality Law (e.g., non-immigrant classifications, immigrant classifications, inadmissible noncitizens, removable noncitizens, derivative citizenship, 8 USC) Knowledge of the Use of Force Policy (e.g., firearms, less-lethal devices and techniques, qualification requirements) Knowledge of Criminal Law and Procedure (e.g., statutory authority) Skill in Using Physical Techniques (e.g., self-defense, baton, OC spray, PLS) Skill in Using Firearms (e.g., handgun, shotgun, M-4) Skills in Basic Operation of a Motor Vehicle (e.g., everyday use of vehicles, parallel parking) Other Requirements Citizenship : You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position. Residency : You must have had primary U.S. residency (includes protectorates as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five years. 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 Border Patrol Agent 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). 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. Formal Training : After you are hired, you will be detailed to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six (6) months of intensive instruction in immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement and Border Patrol-specific operations, and other courses. Border Patrol work requires the ability to speak and read Spanish, as well as English. Border Patrol Agents will be provided training to become proficient with the Spanish language at the Academy. How to Apply: Click the Apply button on this site. You will be linked to the CBP Talent Network registration page. For Position of Interest, select Border Patrol Agent, then complete the pre-screening questions. You'll then receive a link(s) to the BPA Job Opportunity Announcement (JOA) on USAJOBS, the federal government's official employment site, to complete your application. Be certain to review ALL details within the JOA and follow all instructions in the application process, including items (resume, transcripts, etc.) to submit. You will be evaluated based on your resume and supporting documents. Applicants selected at the GL-5 or GL-7 grade levels must also complete and pass the Border Patrol Agent Entrance Exam. Note: This is a Direct Hire Authority announcement. All applicants who meet the minimum qualification requirements will be reviewed. Veterans' Preference and traditional rating and ranking of applicants do not apply to this vacancy. Veterans and Military Spouses will be considered along with all other candidates. As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you'll receive monthly emails with information about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with CBP. Border Patrol Agent (BPA) With more than 69,000 employees, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is one of the world's largest law enforcement organizations and the largest federal law enforcement agency within the Department of Homeland Security. CBP protects the United States by preventing terrorists and their weapons from entering the country while facilitating lawful international travel and trade. As a Border Patrol Agent (BPA) within CBP, you will be a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession. CBP is urgently hiring to fill full-time, entry and mid-level, career positions where your education OR prior general or experience in public safety, security, military police or law enforcement may qualify. Along with excellent base pay, exceptional federal employment benefits, and job stability, CBP is offering additional recruitment and retention incentives (see details below) . Duties Typical assignments include: Detecting and questioning people suspected of violating immigration and custom laws and inspecting documents and possessions to determine citizenship or violations Preventing and apprehending undocumented noncitizens and smugglers of noncitizens at or near the borders by maintaining surveillance from covert positions to include using infrared scopes during night operations Interpreting and following tracks, marks, and other physical evidence of illegal entry of persons or contraband Performing farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, city patrols, and transportation checks Patrolling the international boundary and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets such as vehicles, horses, vessels, watercraft, off-road vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles for the accomplishment of the USBP Mission. Salary and Benefits Selections from this announcement will be at the GL-5, GL-7, GL-9 or GS-11 grade levels with promotion potential to the GS-12 grade level. Annual base salary for newly appointed BPAs varies per grade, from $51,632 - $124,717 per year. BPAs 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, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement plan akin to a traditional ROTH 401(k) offering. *Recruitment Incentive* *Recruitment Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents will be offered up to a $20,000 incentive. The first $10,000 will be paid upon successful completion of the academy, with the remaining $10,000 awarded for accepting a prioritized location. See the Duty Location section below for a list of prioritized locations. *Retention Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents may also qualify for up to $30,000 in additional incentives distributed over the next three years. Duty Locations Big Bend Sector Stations - Alpine, Marfa, Presidio, *Sanderson, *Sierra Blanca Blaine Sector Stations - Blaine, Bellingham, Port Angeles, Sumas Buffalo Sector Stations – Oswego Del Rio Sector Stations - *Comstock El Paso Sector Stations - Deming, *Lordsburg Grand Forks Sector Stations - Bottineau, International Falls, Pembina, Portal, Warroad Havre Sector Stations - Malta, Plentywood, Scobey, Sweetgrass Houlton Sector Stations - Calais, Houlton, Rangeley, Van Buren Laredo Sector Stations - Laredo West, *Hebbronville, *Freer New Orleans Sector Stations - Baton Rouge, Lake Charles, New Orleans San Diego Sector Stations - Boulevard, Brownfield, Campo Swanton Sector Stations - Beecher Falls, Massena, Newport, Ogdensburg, Richford, Swanton Tucson Sector Stations - Douglas, Brian A Terry, Three Points Substation Yuma Sector Stations – Blythe, *Ajo NOTE: The above preference locations are expected to have vacancies available in the future, however, if the duty locations do not have vacancies at the time of your final offer, you may be offered a different duty location within the United States. *Additional $10K Recruitment Incentive: Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents who select a prioritized location at the time of their final offer will receive an additional $10,000 incentive (total of $20,000). Prioritized locations include Sierra Blanca, TX; Presidio, TX; Sanderson, TX; Comstock, TX; Lordsburg, NM; Freer, TX; Hebbronville, TX; Ajo, AZ. Qualifications You qualify for the GL-5 grade level if you possess one of the following: Experience: One (1) year of general work experience that demonstrates the ability to take charge, make sound decisions, and maintain composure in stressful situations; to learn regulations, methods, and techniques through classroom training and/or on-the-job instruction; and the ability to gather concise information through questioning, observation, and examination of documents and records; OR Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree or successful completion of a full four-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; OR Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of general work experience AND successfully completed college education. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application. You qualify for the GL-7 grade level if you possess one of the following: Experience: One year of specialized work experience that shows you have the skills necessary to: Make sound judgments and decisions in the use of firearms. Deal effectively with people in a courteous and tactful manner in connection with law enforcement matters. Analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions where you will be expected to make arrests after the completion of required training and apply these skills in a law enforcement capacity such as criminal code enforcement, determining violations of laws, correctional or rehabilitation work involving criminal offenders, security, military, etc., OR Education Substitution for the GL-7 grade level: A bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement, which is based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average (i.e., GPA of 3.0 or higher out of a possible 4.0), or (3) honor society membership. Or will receive a bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement. Or one full year of graduate-level education in a field of study related to law enforcement (e.g., criminal justice, homeland security, justice studies, law enforcement, courts and judicial systems, forensic technology, forensic psychology, or corrections and rehabilitation) from an accredited college or university; OR A Combination of Experience and Education: This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application. Note: If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GL-9 and or GS-11 grade level. GL-9: You qualify for the GL-9 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as: Performing physical searches of detained individuals, their vehicles, and their immediate surroundings for weapons, contraband, currency, and other evidence Apprehending, physically restraining or working with law enforcement officials to identify or apprehend violators of state, federal, or immigration laws Proficient in the use of firearms, preparing investigative reports, serving court orders (e.g., warrants, subpoenas, etc.) and gathering evidence for criminal cases prosecuted through the court system GS-11: You qualify for the GS-11 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, with the authority granted by the state or government to enforce laws, make arrests, and investigate crimes, performing primary duties in an official law enforcement capacity such as: Utilizing intelligence information to track illegal operations, criminal activity, threats to our nation, and/or contraband while serving as a state, Federal, or military law enforcement official Leading investigations of fraud, contraband, criminal activity, threats to our nation, and/or illegal operations to determine sources and patterns while serving as a state, Federal, or military law enforcement official Apprehending violators of state, federal or immigration laws by utilizing various forms of complex technology that include surveillance, detection, situation awareness systems, and/or communications equipment The above experience will be applied in connection with the Border Patrol Individual Occupational Requirement: Make arrests and exercise sound judgment in the use of firearms; deal effectively with people in a courteous manner in connection with law enforcement matters; analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions; or develop and maintain contact with a network of informants. Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics (KSAOs): Candidates who meet the minimum qualification requirements for the GL-9 or GS-11 grade levels are required to possess certain KSAOs to successfully perform the functions of this position. The KSAOs are: Knowledge of Immigration and Nationality Law (e.g., non-immigrant classifications, immigrant classifications, inadmissible noncitizens, removable noncitizens, derivative citizenship, 8 USC) Knowledge of the Use of Force Policy (e.g., firearms, less-lethal devices and techniques, qualification requirements) Knowledge of Criminal Law and Procedure (e.g., statutory authority) Skill in Using Physical Techniques (e.g., self-defense, baton, OC spray, PLS) Skill in Using Firearms (e.g., handgun, shotgun, M-4) Skills in Basic Operation of a Motor Vehicle (e.g., everyday use of vehicles, parallel parking) Other Requirements Citizenship : You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position. Residency : You must have had primary U.S. residency (includes protectorates as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five years. 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 Border Patrol Agent 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). 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. Formal Training : After you are hired, you will be detailed to the U.S. Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six (6) months of intensive instruction in immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement and Border Patrol-specific operations, and other courses. Border Patrol work requires the ability to speak and read Spanish, as well as English. Border Patrol Agents will be provided training to become proficient with the Spanish language at the Academy. How to Apply: Click the Apply button on this site. You will be linked to the CBP Talent Network registration page. For Position of Interest, select Border Patrol Agent, then complete the pre-screening questions. You'll then receive a link(s) to the BPA Job Opportunity Announcement (JOA) on USAJOBS, the federal government's official employment site, to complete your application. Be certain to review ALL details within the JOA and follow all instructions in the application process, including items (resume, transcripts, etc.) to submit. You will be evaluated based on your resume and supporting documents. Applicants selected at the GL-5 or GL-7 grade levels must also complete and pass the Border Patrol Agent Entrance Exam. Note: This is a Direct Hire Authority announcement. All applicants who meet the minimum qualification requirements will be reviewed. Veterans' Preference and traditional rating and ranking of applicants do not apply to this vacancy. Veterans and Military Spouses will be considered along with all other candidates. As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you'll receive monthly emails with information about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with CBP.

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Government jobs offer stability, competitive benefits, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on your community and country.

Whether you’re starting your career or seeking new opportunities, these roles provide pathways for growth, security, and service.

Explore positions across a wide range of fields and take the first step toward a rewarding future in public service.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- https://careersingovernment.com/
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