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Cbp Field Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CBP Officer

Skagway, AK · On-site +1

$104K - $135K/yr

Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Portland Field Office, located in ... Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and are currently serving or have served in the 1895 series ...

Create detailed interface specifications for integration with CBP situational awareness systems * Design standardized site survey procedures for consistent field operations * Coordinate field test ...

Create detailed interface specifications for integration with CBP situational awareness systems * Design standardized site survey procedures for consistent field operations * Coordinate field test ...

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Cbp Field Operations information

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$11

$28

$44

How much do cbp field operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for cbp field operations in the United States is $28.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get hired by CBP?

Getting hired as a CBP Field Operations officer can be competitive, requiring passing a series of assessments, background checks, and physical fitness tests. Candidates often need relevant experience, security clearance, and to meet specific eligibility criteria, making the hiring process challenging but achievable with proper preparation.

How long is the CBP Field Operations Academy?

The CBP Field Operations Academy typically lasts around 12 weeks, during which trainees receive training in law enforcement procedures, customs regulations, and operational skills. The program prepares new officers for field duties and includes classroom instruction, practical exercises, and physical training.

What do CBP field operations do?

CBP field operations involve inspecting and processing travelers and cargo at ports of entry to enforce immigration, customs, and trade laws. Officers conduct security checks, search for contraband, and ensure compliance with regulations using tools like scanners and databases. They also respond to incidents and maintain border security.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CBP Field Operations Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CBP Field Operations Officer, you need a solid understanding of border security protocols, law enforcement procedures, and must typically possess a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience along with U.S. citizenship. Familiarity with inspection technologies, law enforcement databases, and specialized detection equipment is important, as is completing the CBP Officer Basic Training Academy. Strong attention to detail, clear communication, and decision-making under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure officers can effectively enforce laws, protect national security, and facilitate legitimate trade and travel at U.S. ports of entry.

Is CBP a high paying job?

CBP Field Operations officers typically earn a competitive salary that increases with experience and rank, with entry-level positions offering moderate pay and higher salaries for supervisory roles. The job also includes benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay, making it a financially stable career option for many applicants.

What are some common challenges faced by CBP Field Operations officers, and how can new hires effectively prepare for them?

CBP Field Operations officers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable work hours, high-pressure situations at ports of entry, and the need to quickly assess risks while balancing security and efficient processing. New hires can prepare by developing strong communication skills, maintaining physical fitness, and familiarizing themselves with customs regulations and procedures. It also helps to be adaptable and stay updated on current security threats, as teamwork and situational awareness are crucial for success in this dynamic environment.

What are CBP Field Operations?

CBP Field Operations refers to the branch of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) responsible for securing the nation’s borders at official ports of entry. Officers working in Field Operations inspect travelers and cargo entering the United States, enforce customs, immigration, and agricultural laws, and prevent illegal goods or individuals from crossing the border. Their work is critical for facilitating lawful trade and travel while protecting the country from threats such as terrorism, contraband, and infectious diseases.

What is the difference between Cbp Field Operations vs Customs Broker?

AspectCbp Field OperationsCustoms Broker
Required CredentialsCBP Officer or Agent certification, background checkCustoms broker license, licensing exam
Work EnvironmentBorder crossings, ports, airports, enforcementImport/export documentation, client consultation
Employer & Industry UsageU.S. Customs and Border Protection, governmentPrivate import/export companies, freight forwarders

While both roles involve customs procedures, Cbp Field Operations focuses on border enforcement and security, whereas Customs Brokers handle import/export documentation and compliance for clients. They work in related industries but serve different functions within the customs process.

More about Cbp Field Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Cbp Field Operations jobs? Cities with the most Cbp Field Operations job openings:
What states have the most Cbp Field Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Cbp Field Operations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cbp Field Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cbp Field Operations jobs are:
Infographic showing various Cbp Field Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,801 per year, or $28.8 per hour.
CBP Officer

$104K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


U.S. Customs and Border Protection rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

116th of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Organizational Location: This position is with the Department of Homeland Security, within U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Portland Field Office, located in Skagway, Alaska.Qualifications:Experience: You qualify for the GS-12 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as:
  • Performing inspections and enforcement of persons, merchandise, and conveyances at ports of entry and preventing terrorists and instruments of terror from entering the United States.
  • Enforcing the laws that protect America's homeland through detection, interdiction and apprehension.
  • Developing, planning and performing in tactical operations.
  • Conducting searches, making arrests and seizures, and collecting evidence in support of criminal proceedings in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies.
NOTE: Your resume must explicitly indicate how you meet this requirement, otherwise you will be found ineligible. Please see the "Required Documents" section below for additional resume requirements.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Primary CBPO Special Retirement Coverage: This is a primary position subject to mandatory retirement under the special retirement provisions for Customs and Border Protection Officers (5 CFR 842.1003; 5 USC 8425(b); 5 USC 8335(b); and 5 USC 8412(d)). For more information on required years of service and retirement age, click onthis link. If you have questions regarding your retirement coverage provisions, please contact the CBP Retirement Operations Center at (202) 863-6180.
The customs and border protection officer mandatory separation provisions of 5 USC 8425 do not apply to an individual first appointed as a customs and border protection officer before July 6, 2008.

You must:
  • Meet all qualification requirements, including education if applicable to this position, subject to verification at any stage of the application process; and
  • Meet all applicable Time in Grade requirements (current federal employees must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade or equivalent grade band in the federal service) by 07/09/2026
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.
Background Investigation: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is a federal law enforcement agency that requires all applicants to undergo a thorough background investigation prior to employment in order to promote the agency's core values of vigilance, service to country, and integrity. During the screening and/or background investigation process, you will be asked questions regarding any felony criminal convictions or current felony charges, the use of illegal drugs (e.g., marijuana, cocaine, heroin, LSD, methamphetamines, ecstasy), and the use of non-prescribed controlled substances including any experimentation, possession, sale, receipt, manufacture, cultivation, production, transfer, shipping, trafficking, or distribution of controlled substances.
For additional information on the preemployment process, review the following link: Applicant Resources | CBP Careers
Polygraph Examination: The CBP Officer position is a polygraph-required position. If you are not a current CBP employee in a law enforcement position, you may be required to take a polygraph exam and have favorable results in order to continue in the pre-employment process. Please see Polygraph Examination.
Polygraph Reciprocity: CBP may accept the results of a prior federal polygraph exam in lieu of a CBP polygraph exam. You will receive information to request reciprocity in your Background Investigation Package.
Polygraph Waiver: Certain veterans may be eligible to obtain a polygraph waiver. You will receive information to request a waiver in your Background Investigation Package.
Probationary Period: Current and former federal employees may be required to serve or complete a probationary period.
If you are not a current GS-1895, and you are selected, you will have to meet the following medical/physical standards:
Physical/Medical Requirements: Following a tentative job offer, candidates must undergo and successfully complete a medical screening process. Individuals must be medically and physically capable of performing the essential job functions and duties of the position safely and efficiently without endangering the health and safety of the individual, others, or national security. For more information regarding the medical screening process and requirements, check out our video and visit our website.
Physical Fitness Test: You will be required to successfully pass the Pre-employment Fitness Test. Please view both Hiring Process Deep Dive Video: The Fitness Test and Pre-Employment Fitness Test Physical Readiness Program, a 6-week program designed to assist you in achieving a level of physical fitness that will help you successfully pass the CBP fitness test.
Age Requirement: Pursuant to Public Law 110-161, this position is covered under special retirement provisions for Customs and Border Protection Officers which allows for the imposition of a maximum age requirement. In accordance with Department of Homeland Security Directive 251-03, the day before an individual's 37th birthday is the maximum age for original appointment to a position as a Customs and Border Protection Officer.
** NOTE: The Executive Assistant Commissioner of the Office of Field Operations has approved a temporary increase in the maximum allowable age for original placement into a CBPO position, therefore candidates must enter their original appointment before reaching their 40th birthday. In accordance with Department of Homeland Security Directive 251-03, unless the below criteria applies, you must meet this age requirement by the date of referral to the hiring manager.
Creditable law enforcement officer service covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d), or creditable service covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8401(36) as a Customs and Border Protection Officer on or after July 6, 2008, may be applied toward the maximum age requirement. This age restriction may not apply if you are currently serving in a federal civilian (not military) law enforcement position covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d).
Veterans' Preference Eligibility: To ensure compliance with statutes pertaining to the appointment of preference eligible veterans as determined by the Merit Systems Protection Board in its recent decision of Isabella v. Dept. of State, the maximum age for original appointment articulated above shall not apply to the hiring of individuals entitled to veterans preference eligibility under 5 U.S.C. 3312. You must submit proof of Veteran's Preference (DD-214 Member 4 Copy) at the time of application.Education:Please see the Qualifications and Required Documents sections for more information if education is applicable to this position.Employment Type: OTHER

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About U.S. Customs and Border Protection

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U.S. Customs and Border Protection serves and protects America with a workforce of more than 60,000 law enforcement and support professionals. We're united by our mission to guard our borders from threats and illicit activities while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003