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Custom Border Protection Officer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Custom Border Protection Officer information

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$12

$17

$23

How much do custom border protection officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for custom border protection officer in Texas is $17.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to become a customs officer?

Becoming a Customs Border Protection Officer typically requires passing written exams, background checks, physical fitness tests, and training at a federal law enforcement academy. The process can be competitive and involves meeting specific eligibility criteria, including age, education, and citizenship requirements.

What is a Customs and Border Protection Officer?

A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer is a federal law enforcement professional who works for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency. Their primary role is to protect the nation’s borders by preventing illegal entry of people and goods, enforcing immigration and customs laws, and facilitating lawful trade and travel. CBP Officers work at ports of entry, such as airports, seaports, and land border crossings, where they inspect travelers, vehicles, and cargo. They also play a key role in national security by preventing the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and other contraband.

How to become a customs border protection officer?

To become a Customs Border Protection Officer, applicants must meet age, citizenship, and background requirements, pass a written exam and physical fitness test, and complete training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. Relevant skills include attention to detail, communication, and the ability to work in a team environment. Candidates often need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring college coursework or experience in law enforcement or security.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Customs Border Protection Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Customs Border Protection Officer, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement procedures, border security protocols, and typically a background check plus completion of specialized CBP training. Familiarity with inspection technologies, law enforcement databases, and detection tools is crucial. Strong communication, situational awareness, and integrity help officers interact effectively with travelers and respond to dynamic situations. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring national security, enforcing laws, and facilitating lawful trade and travel.

Is it hard to get hired by CBP?

Becoming a Customs Border Protection Officer involves a competitive hiring process that includes written exams, background checks, physical fitness tests, and interviews. Candidates often need relevant experience, a clean record, and to meet specific eligibility requirements, making the hiring process challenging but achievable with proper preparation.

What is the difference between Custom Border Protection Officer vs Customs Officer?

AspectCustom Border Protection OfficerCustoms Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, background checks, sometimes security clearancesHigh school diploma, background checks, sometimes security clearances
Work EnvironmentBorder crossings, ports, airports, security checkpointsCustoms offices, border crossings, ports
Employer & Industry UsageU.S. Customs and Border Protection, government agenciesCustoms agencies, government departments

Both roles involve border security and customs enforcement, often requiring similar credentials and working in border or port environments. The main difference is that Custom Border Protection Officers focus on security screening and enforcement at border points, while Customs Officers primarily handle customs inspections and duties collection. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right career path within border security and customs operations.

How much do CBP officers get paid?

Custom Border Protection (CBP) officers typically earn a starting salary of around $50,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and rank. With experience and promotions, salaries can increase to over $80,000 annually, and officers may receive additional benefits such as overtime pay, hazard pay, and allowances for shift work.

What are some common challenges faced by Customs Border Protection Officers during their daily shifts?

Customs Border Protection Officers often encounter fast-paced environments where they must make quick, accurate decisions under pressure. Dealing with large volumes of travelers and cargo, officers must remain vigilant for potential security threats while maintaining professionalism and empathy during interactions. Shifts can be long and may include nights, weekends, and holidays, requiring adaptability and resilience. Balancing enforcement duties with customer service is a core challenge, as officers need to enforce regulations while treating travelers fairly and respectfully.
What cities in Texas are hiring for Custom Border Protection Officer jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Custom Border Protection Officer job openings:
Infographic showing various Custom Border Protection Officer job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,304 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Customs and Border Protection Officer - Entry Level with Security Clearance

Customs and Border Protection Officer - Entry Level with Security Clearance

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Del Rio, TX • On-site

$41K - $112K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 29 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

167th of 835 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO) - New Hire Sign-On and Retention Incentives NEW RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION INCENTIVES! U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers those interested in a career in law enforcement an exceptional opportunity to work with an elite team of highly trained professionals whose camaraderie, pride, and purpose are hallmarks of their daily mission of protecting America. You will be part of the Department of Homeland Security workforce, protecting American interests and securing our nation. If you are looking for a rewarding career with great pay, benefits, and job stability, now is the time to make your move. DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE INCENTIVES - SEE SALARY SECTION BELOW As a Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO) , you will be part of our 60,000+ workforce that strives to protect the American people by safeguarding our borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation's economic prosperity. Being a CBPO makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession. Typical assignments include: * Enforcing customs, immigration, and agriculture laws and regulations. * Facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel. * Conducting inspections of individuals and conveyances. * Determining the admissibility of individuals for entry into the United States. * Preventing the illegal entry of individuals and prohibited goods and the smuggling of illegal drugs and other contraband. Duty Locations - Incentives available for some locations You will be asked to provide your preference for one of the following mission-critical locations: Anchorage, AK; Douglas, Lukeville, Nogales and San Luis, AZ; Calexico, Otay Mesa, San Francisco, San Ysidro, and Tecate, CA; Washington, D.C.; Key West, Miami, and Orlando, FL; Honolulu, HI; Chicago, IL; Calais, Eastport, Houlton, Jackman, Madawaska, Van Buren, and Vanceboro, ME; Detroit, Port Huron, and Sault Ste Marie, MI; Grand Portage and International Falls, MN; Raymond, Roosville, Sweetgrass, and Wild Horse, MT; Columbus and Santa Teresa, NM; Alexandria Bay, Champlain, Massena, Trout River, and Buffalo, NY; Dunseith, Pembina, and Portal, ND; Brownsville, Dallas, Del Rio, El Paso, Hidalgo, Laredo, Presidio, Progreso, and Houston, TX; Beecher Falls, Derby Line, Highgate Springs, Norton, and Richford, VT; Blaine, Oroville, and Sumas, WA. The preference locations listed above 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 duty location in another geographic location within the United States. Locations offered are based on operational and mission requirements and critical agency hiring needs for entry-level CBPOs as determined by the CBP Office of Field Operations (OFO). Salary - and Duty Location Recruitment Incentives - and Benefits **Recruitment Incentive** Newly appointed Customs and Border Protection Officers will be offered up to a $15,000 incentive per year, for a three-year service contract, in the following locations: * Arizona: Douglas, Lukeville, Nogales, San Luis * California: Calexico * Hawaii: Honolulu * Maine: Calais, Eastport, Houlton, Jackman, Madawaska, Van Buren, Vanceboro * Michigan: Detroit, Port Huron, Sault Sainte Marie * Minnesota: Grand Portage, International Falls * Montana: Raymond, Sweetgrass * New York: Alexandria Bay, Champlain, Massena, Trout River * North Dakota: Dunseith, Portal * Vermont: Beecher Falls, Derby Line, Highgate Springs, Norton, Richford * Washington: Blaine, Oroville **Recruitment Incentive** Newly appointed Customs and Border Protection Officers will be offered up to a $15,000 incentive per year, for a four-year service contract, in the following locations: * California: Otay Mesa, San Francisco, San Ysidro, Tecate * Florida: Key West * North Dakota: Pembina Annual Base Salary for newly appointed CBPOs varies as follows: * GS-5 and GS-7 $41,863 - $112,415 per year Locality pay varies by duty location. Note: A fully trained CBPO is eligible for up to $45,000 in overtime pay in addition to the starting salary. Grade level eligibility and salaries vary depending upon background, including experience and education, and duty location of the opportunity. This is a career ladder position with a grade level progression of GS-5, GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, and GS-12. You will be eligible for a promotion to the next higher grade level (without re-applying) once you successfully complete 52 weeks in each grade level. Promotions are at the discretion of the agency. Officers 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 and ROTH 401(k) offering. Qualifications: You qualify for the GS-5 grade level if you possess one of the following: Experience: A minimum of three (3) years full-time general work experience that demonstrates the ability to meet and deal with people and the ability to learn and be able to apply a body of facts; OR Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree or successful completion of a full four (4)-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 successfully completed college education AND general work experience. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial college transcripts submitted with your application. You qualify for the GS-7 grade level if you possess one of the following: Experience: A minimum of one (1) year of specialized full-time work experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level that includes: * Performing physical inspections of people, documents or goods for criminal activity, fraud, and/or illegal operations. * Utilizing observational techniques, evaluating facts, and reviewing documentation while applying Federal, State, or local laws and regulations. * Making determinations in compliance with laws and regulations that may lead to arrests, seizure of property, fines, and/or penalties based on findings. OR for the GS-7 grade level: Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average (3.0 or higher), or (3) honor society membership; OR one (1) full year of graduate-level education. This education must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work; OR Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of specialized work experience equivalent to the next lower grade level AND graduate level education from an accredited college or university. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application. If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GS-9 grade level. See the GS-9 Job Opportunity Announcement (JOAs) at USAJOBS, the federal government's official employment site to determine if you qualify. 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 (3) of the last five (5) 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 Customs and Border Protection Officer 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: You will be required to complete a paid pre-academy orientation for approximately two (2) weeks at your home port. You will then attend a 101-day training program - CBP Field Operations Academy - conducted at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) located in Glynco, GA. This training consists of basic law enforcement skills, immigration laws, firearms training, examination of cargo/bags/merchandise, physical fitness, etc. Candidates assigned to the southern border, Miami, or Puerto Rico duty locations must attend and pass an online Spanish training program, which will be completed at their home port. Successful completion of the Academy is required for this position. How to Apply: Click the Apply button on this site. You will be linked to the CBP Talent Network page. For Position of Interest , select Customs and Border Protection Officer. You'll then receive a link(s) to the CBPO JOA(s) on USAJOBS to complete your application. Be certain to review ALL details of the job opportunity announcement and follow all instructions in the application process, including items (resume, transcripts, etc.) to submit. You will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the CBPO Entrance Exam. As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you'll receive monthly emails with information about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with OFO and CBP.

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About U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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