1

Cbp Field Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$109K/yr

Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Multiple Field Offices.Qualifications ... Interacting with internal and external contacts and mentoring lower level CBP officers and officers ...

$109K/yr

Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Multiple Field Offices.Qualifications ... Interacting with internal and external contacts and mentoring lower level CBP officers and officers ...

$125K - $150K/yr

The ideal candidate is a former Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Analyst who has 4-6 years of ... operational environment

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cbp Field Operations information

See California salary details

$11

$28

$43

How much do cbp field operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cbp field operations in California is $28.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $35.58 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.

What are popular job titles related to Cbp Field Operations jobs in California? For Cbp Field Operations jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cbp Field Operations jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cbp Field Operations jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cbp Field Operations jobs? Cities in California with the most Cbp Field Operations job openings:
Infographic showing various Cbp Field Operations job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $59,018 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Supervisory CBP Officer (First Line-POE)

US Department of Homeland Security

San Diego, CA

$109K/yr

Other

Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


U.S. Department Of Homeland Security rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

93rd of 288 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Organizational Location: This position is with the Department of Homeland Security, within U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations, Multiple Field Offices.Qualifications:Experience: You qualify for the GS-13 grade level if you possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as:
  • Conducting prearrival targeting and intelligence vetting and gathering and analyzing information from all available sources
  • Performing primary inspections of cargo, conveyances, and travelers and secondary inspections of referrals from primary
  • Developing, planning, and performing tactical operations in cargo and passenger environments
  • Employing a variety of investigative techniques and preparing accurate reports regarding inspections, gathered intelligence, and incidents
  • Interacting with internal and external contacts and mentoring lower level CBP officers and officers new to the port, environment, or work unit
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.
Secondary CBPO Special Retirement Coverage: This is a secondary 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). Employees in secondary positions must meet the following conditions in order to be eligible for special retirement provisions: moved directly from a primary position to a secondary position without a break in service; complete 3 years of service in a primary position; and, if applicable, have been continuously employed in a secondary position or positions since moving from a rigorous position without a break in service exceeding 3 days. For more information on required years of service and retirement age, click on this 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 07/31/2026
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 Supervisory CBP Officer (First Line-POE) 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.
Residency: There is a residency requirement for all applicants not currently employed by CBP. Individuals are required to have physically resided in the United States or its protectorates (as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five years. If you do not meet the residency requirement and you have been physically located in a foreign location for more than two of the last five years, you may request an exception to determine if you are eligible for a residency waiver by meeting one or more of the following conditions:
  • Working for the U.S. Government as a federal civilian or as a member of the military
  • A dependent who was authorized to accompany a federal civilian or member of the military who was working for the U.S. government
  • Participation in a study abroad program sponsored by a U.S. affiliated college or university
  • Working as a contractor, intern, consultant or volunteer supporting the U.S. government
Education:Please see the Qualifications and Required Documents sections for more information if education is applicable to this position.
Physical and Environmental Conditions: The work environment includes offices, aircraft operation areas, airline passenger and cargo areas, and marine docks. Periods of outdoor work may be required in snow, rain, or extreme heat. Occasional periods of outdoor work may be required in remote areas with no modern comfort facilities. The work may involve the use of toxic chemicals, pesticides and fumigants. Protective clothing may be required such as hard hats, gloves, goggles, hearing protection, and respirators.Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Homeland Security employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


U.S. Department of Homeland Security logo

About U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a federal agency operating within the government services industry in Washington, DC, US. Established in 2003, the DHS is directly responsible for public security, roughly comparable to the interior or home ministries of other countries. Its main responsibilities include protecting the United States from and responding to terrorist attacks, man-made accidents, and natural disasters. Through its more than 20 component agencies including Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, it ensures the safety of the US through numerous programs and initiatives. The DHS upholds a core value system with the mission of safeguarding the American people, our homeland, and values. Notably, the DHS plays a critical role in the spectral range of activities to prepare, prevent, and respond to possible threats to the US.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003