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Customs Border Protection Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Customs Border Protection Technician information

What is a Customs Border Protection Technician?

Customs Border Protection (CBP) Technicians are support professionals who assist U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in processing travelers and cargo entering or leaving the United States. They handle administrative tasks such as data entry, document verification, and records management. CBP Technicians play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of border crossings and ports of entry by supporting enforcement, inspection, and investigative activities. Their work helps maintain national security and efficient trade and travel. They generally do not carry firearms or have arrest authority, but are essential members of the CBP team.

What key skills and qualifications are needed to succeed as a Customs Border Protection Technician?

To thrive as a Customs Border Protection Technician, you need strong attention to detail, knowledge of customs regulations, and relevant experience or education in security or law enforcement support. Familiarity with data entry software, automated inspection systems, and secure government databases is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and integrity help technicians interact effectively with travelers and colleagues while maintaining compliance. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the lawful and efficient processing of people and goods at U.S. borders.

What are some common challenges faced by Customs Border Protection Technicians, and how can they be managed?

Customs Border Protection Technicians frequently encounter challenges such as handling high volumes of documentation, adhering to strict regulatory procedures, and managing rapidly changing priorities at busy ports of entry. Staying organized and maintaining attention to detail are crucial to avoid errors and ensure compliance with federal guidelines. Many technicians find it helpful to develop strong communication skills, as collaboration with officers, importers, and travelers is a regular part of the role. Supportive training programs and mentoring from experienced colleagues can also help new technicians adjust and succeed.

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

AspectCustoms Border Protection TechnicianCustoms Border Protection Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training or certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; additional law enforcement training and certifications
Work EnvironmentSupport roles at border crossings, airports, or ports; technical and operational tasksPatrol, inspect, and enforce laws at border points; law enforcement duties
Employer & Industry UsageU.S. Customs and Border Protection; technical support within border securityU.S. Customs and Border Protection; enforcement and law enforcement

Customs Border Protection Technicians primarily handle technical and operational support tasks at border sites, while Customs Border Protection Officers perform law enforcement duties, including inspections and enforcement. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in responsibilities and work environment.

Are Customs Border Protection Technicians getting paid?

Yes, Customs Border Protection Technicians receive a salary that varies based on experience, location, and federal pay scales. They are typically paid biweekly and may receive additional benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. The position often requires passing a background check and completing specialized training.

Is a Customs Border Protection Technician a good job?

A Customs Border Protection Technician is a federal law enforcement role responsible for inspecting and processing travelers and cargo at border crossings. The job offers competitive pay, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, often requiring specialized training and security clearances. It can be a stable career for those interested in public service and security work.

What cities are hiring for Customs Border Protection Technician jobs?

Cities with the most Customs Border Protection Technician job openings:

What states have the most Customs Border Protection Technician jobs?

States with the most job openings for Customs Border Protection Technician jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Customs Border Protection Technician jobs?

For Customs Border Protection Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Customs Border Protection Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 69% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 30% Remote job distribution.

Customs and Border Protection Officer - Entry Level

Columbia Falls, MT • On-site

Customs and Border Protection
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$41K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 13 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


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 LocationsIncentives 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

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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