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Border Security Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SimIS seeks an Integration Specialist to ensure seamless interoperability between diverse border security technologies and systems. This role requires deep technical expertise in system integration ...

Data Scientist

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

The Border Security Data Scientist will join a dynamic team supporting U.S Federal border security customers. In this role, the candidate will collect, transform, integrate, and analyze data to ...

New

The Border Security Data Scientist will join a dynamic team supporting U.S Federal border security customers. In this role, the candidate will collect, transform, integrate, and analyze data to ...

The Border Security Data Scientist will join a dynamic team supporting U.S Federal border security customers. In this role, the candidate will collect, transform, integrate, and analyze data to ...

Sr. Director, Profit & Loss (P&L)

Lorton, VA ยท On-site

$225K - $275K/yr

Lead a portfolio of programs focused on counter-UAS, force protection, border security, ISR, and other counter-threat mission areas. * Build and maintain executive-level relationships with customers ...

Lead a portfolio of programs focused on counter-UAS, force protection, border security, ISR, and other counter-threat mission areas. * Build and maintain executive-level relationships with customers ...

Lead a portfolio of programs focused on counter-UAS, force protection, border security, ISR, and other counter-threat mission areas. * Build and maintain executive-level relationships with customers ...

Lead a portfolio of programs focused on counter-UAS, force protection, border security, ISR, and other counter-threat mission areas. * Build and maintain executive-level relationships with customers ...

Sr. Director, Profit & Loss (P&L)

Lorton, VA ยท On-site

$225 - $275/hr

Lead a portfolio of programs focused on counter-UAS, force protection, border security, ISR, and other counter-threat mission areas. * Build and maintain executive-level relationships with customers ...

Showing results 21-40

Border Security information

See Virginia salary details

$28.3K

$43.6K

$58.5K

How much do border security jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for border security in Virginia is $43,586.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $47,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by border security officers during their daily duties?

Border security officers often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of travelers, identifying fraudulent documents, and responding to rapidly changing security threats. They must remain vigilant and adaptable while working in dynamic, high-pressure environments that may require long hours or shift work. Additionally, effective communication and collaboration with other law enforcement agencies are crucial for handling complex situations and ensuring the safety of all parties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a border security officer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Border Security Officer, you need physical fitness, attention to detail, strong observation skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent; additional law enforcement or military training is often preferred. Familiarity with surveillance systems, identification verification technology, and communication devices is crucial. Outstanding interpersonal skills, integrity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help officers manage challenging interactions and emergencies. These skills and qualities are vital to effectively enforce laws, maintain national security, and ensure safe and lawful border crossings.

What is border security?

Border security refers to the measures and policies implemented by a country to monitor, regulate, and protect its borders from illegal activities such as unauthorized immigration, smuggling, human trafficking, and potential security threats. Border security professionals work at international borders, airports, and seaports to enforce laws, inspect goods and people, and prevent unlawful entry. Their role is crucial in maintaining national security, facilitating lawful trade and travel, and safeguarding the public.

What is the difference between Border Security vs Customs Officer?

AspectBorder SecurityCustoms Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; security trainingHigh school diploma; customs and immigration training
Work EnvironmentBorder crossings, airports, portsCustoms stations, ports, airports
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, homeland securityCustoms agencies, border control
Common Search/ComparisonBorder Security vs Customs Officer

Border Security and Customs Officers both work in border control environments, but Border Security personnel focus on overall border protection, including preventing illegal crossings and threats. Customs Officers primarily handle customs inspections, tariffs, and import/export regulations. While their roles overlap in border areas, their specific responsibilities and training differ, making each role unique within border enforcement agencies.

How to be a border security agent?

To become a border security agent, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass physical fitness and background checks, and complete specialized training at a federal or state training academy. Relevant skills include observation, communication, and knowledge of immigration laws, with some positions requiring prior law enforcement experience or certifications. The job often involves working in various environments, including border crossings and patrols, with shifts that may include nights and weekends.
What are popular job titles related to Border Security jobs in Virginia? For Border Security jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Border Security jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Border Security job openings:
Infographic showing various Border Security job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,586 per year, or $21 per hour.

Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer

Intrepid

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter . Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.
The Critical Infrastructure Group (CIG) within JOID provides technical, programmatic and analytical support to customers with missions in national security to include the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Group brings technical and operational expertise in fields of countering weapons of mass destruction, critical infrastructure protection, emergency response, nuclear non-proliferation, weapons deployment programs, and transportation safety. In addition to management and advisory services, CIG staff collaborate closely with our clients to provide high-quality modeling, simulation, software, and analytical products to meet the most demanding government standards and timelines.
We have an immediate need for an Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer to provide hybrid support out of the Northern Virginia Area. #DICE
Responsibilities
The Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) Engineer will support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) mission and will be responsible for planning, conducting, and analyzing tests of homeland defense technology systems to ensure operational effectiveness, reliability, and suitability throughout their lifecycle. This role focuses on evaluating systems designed to secure U.S. borders and facilitate the lawful flow of commerce, ensuring compliance with DHS policies and operational requirements in realistic environments.
Primary responsibilities will fall within the following areas:
  • Test Planning and Strategy Development: Design and develop operational test plans for homeland defense technologies, such as border surveillance systems, non-intrusive inspection equipment, and trade facilitation systems. Ensure adherence to DHS Acquisition Management Directive (MD 102-01) and CBP's Operational Requirements Document (ORD) processes.
  • Test and Evaluation Coordination: Develop and coordinate Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMPs), test concepts, and detailed test plans aligned with DHS Directive 026-06 (Test and Evaluation) and CBP mission needs. Collaborate with CBP's Office of Acquisition and operational stakeholders to align testing with mission objectives.
  • System Performance Evaluation: Collect and analyze test data to assess the performance, reliability, and suitability of systems like integrated fixed towers, remote video surveillance systems, and cargo scanning technologies in operational border environments.
  • Documentation and Reporting: Maintain critical documentation, including test plans, reports, and recommendations for system improvements. Support preparation for Operational Test Reports (OTRs) and briefings for CBP leadership and DHS Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) to support acquisition decisions.
  • Stakeholder Collaboration: Work with CBP officers, engineers, program managers, and DHS components to ensure effective testing. Engage with external partners, such as other DHS components or interagency partners, to align testing with broader homeland security objectives.
  • Test Event Support: Support test events, including integrated test planning meetings, Deficiency Review Boards, Safety Review Boards, and Operational Readiness Reviews. Participate in critical design reviews and other meetings to support OT&E execution for border security and trade systems.
  • Compliance and Risk Management: Support testing that adheres to DHS policies, including the DHS Systems Engineering Life Cycle (SELC) and the DHS Risk Management Framework. Address risks related to border security operations and trade facilitation

Qualifications
Required:
  • U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and retain a DHS Suitability/CBP Background Investigation.
  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of relevant experience in test design, data analysis, and statistical methods for evaluating complex systems.
  • Strong analytical skills for evaluating system performance and excellent written and verbal communication skills to provide actionable recommendations.
  • Able to work fully onsite based on client needs.

Desired:
  • Active CBP Background Investigation or an Active Top Secret clearance.
  • In-depth understanding of DHS policies, including MD 102-01 (Acquisition Management), DHS Directive 026-06 (Test and Evaluation), and the DHS SELC framework.
  • Hands-on experience with homeland defense technology systems, such as border surveillance, non-intrusive inspection technologies, or trade compliance systems.
  • Proficiency in modeling and simulation tools, digital engineering, or data management platforms to support testing.
  • Familiarity with data analytics tools for processing large datasets from border security operations or trade compliance systems.

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc.
Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
VA Pay Transparency Salary range: $90k - $115k