Customs and Border Protection Officer - Entry Level
PALOS HILLS, ILPosted 19 days ago
Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Job overview
The Customs and Border Protection Officer (Entry Level) role involves protecting U.S. borders by enforcing laws, facilitating trade and travel, and preventing illegal activities as part of the Department of Homeland Security.
Responsibilities and impact
Daily duties include enforcing customs, immigration, and agriculture laws, inspecting individuals and conveyances, determining admissibility for entry, and preventing illegal entry and smuggling.
Compensation and benefits
The salary ranges from GS-5 to GS-7 levels ($40,332 to $109,952) with locality pay and up to $45,000 overtime; benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, leave programs, and recruitment incentives up to 25% for certain locations.
Experience and skills
Qualifications vary by grade level, requiring a combination of education (bachelor's degree or higher) and experience in law enforcement or related fields; U.S. citizenship, residency, and age restrictions apply.
Career development
The position offers a career ladder from GS-5 to GS-12 with promotions based on time and performance without reapplying, plus formal training at the CBP Field Operations Academy.
Work environment and culture
The role is within a highly trained, elite federal law enforcement team focused on protecting American interests with pride and camaraderie.
Company information
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is a federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security responsible for safeguarding U.S. borders and enhancing economic prosperity.
Team overview
Candidates join a workforce of over 60,000 federal law enforcement officers dedicated to border protection and national security.
Job location and travel
Duty locations are across multiple U.S. states and territories with some offering recruitment incentives; location assignment depends on operational needs.
Application process
Applicants must apply via the CBP Talent Network and USAJOBS, submitting resumes, transcripts, and passing the CBPO Entrance Exam, with ongoing communication through the Talent Network.
Unique job features
The job includes unique federal law enforcement training, location-based salary incentives, and opportunities to serve in diverse geographic areas with critical national security impact.
Company overview
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is a federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security, responsible for regulating and facilitating international trade, collecting import duties, and enforcing U.S. regulations, including immigration and drug laws. CBP generates revenue primarily through tariffs and duties on imported goods. Established in 2003, following the Homeland Security Act of 2002, CBP plays a crucial role in national security by preventing the illegal movement of people and contraband while ensuring lawful travel and trade.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to highlight your ability to enforce customs, immigration, and agriculture laws, emphasizing skills in inspection, compliance, and law enforcement procedures relevant to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Showcase your experience or education that demonstrates strong interpersonal skills and the ability to evaluate facts and documents critically, as these are key for determining admissibility and preventing illegal activity.
Apply through multiple platforms including the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website, USAJOBS, and LinkedIn to maximize your chances of being noticed by recruiters.
Connect with current Customs and Border Protection Officers or recruiters on LinkedIn, using ice breakers like asking about their experience at the CBP Field Operations Academy or inquiring about the challenges of specific duty locations you are interested in.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'law enforcement,' 'inspection,' 'compliance,' 'immigration laws,' and 'Federal Law Enforcement Officer,' ensuring your resume passes automated screenings.
Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate applying across multiple job boards, tailor your resume for ATS compatibility, and identify LinkedIn connections for networking, allowing you to focus your time on preparation and interview readiness.
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