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Federal Law Enforcement Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

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Federal Law Enforcement information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$34.7K

$86.7K

$133.3K

How much do federal law enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal law enforcement in Decatur, GA is $86,713.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,700.00 and $96,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer, you need a strong background in criminal justice, physical fitness, and investigative skills, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree and completion of federal law enforcement training programs. Familiarity with firearms, surveillance technology, case management systems, and sometimes specialized certifications like security clearance are essential. Strong judgment, ethical integrity, communication, and resilience are critical soft skills for handling high-pressure and sensitive situations. These competencies are vital to ensure effective enforcement of federal laws, public safety, and the integrity of investigations.

What are federal law enforcement officers?

Federal law enforcement officers are agents who work for agencies within the United States federal government, such as the FBI, DEA, ATF, or Secret Service. These professionals are responsible for enforcing federal laws and investigating crimes that cross state lines or impact national security. Their duties can include conducting investigations, making arrests, gathering evidence, and testifying in court. Unlike local or state police, federal officers have jurisdiction across the entire country and often specialize in specific types of crime.

What are federal law enforcement jobs?

Federal law enforcement jobs involve enforcing laws and regulations at the national level, often working for agencies such as the FBI, DEA, or Homeland Security. These roles typically require specialized training, background checks, and sometimes law enforcement or military experience, with officers often working in criminal investigation, border security, or counterterrorism. They may require certifications, security clearances, and adherence to strict conduct standards.

What are some common challenges faced by new federal law enforcement officers during their first year on the job?

New federal law enforcement officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to the rigorous training requirements, learning complex federal laws and procedures, and adjusting to the structure and culture of their specific agency. The transition can also involve balancing fieldwork with detailed documentation and reporting, as well as navigating high expectations for professionalism and ethical conduct. Building effective working relationships with colleagues and other agencies is essential for success, and mentors or field training officers typically provide guidance during this period.

What is the difference between Federal Law Enforcement vs State Police?

AspectFederal Law EnforcementState Police
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree, background checks, and specialized training (e.g., FBI Academy)Similar requirements: high school diploma or GED, police academy training, and background checks
Work EnvironmentOperate across the country or internationally, focus on federal crimesOperate within a specific state, focus on state laws and local issues
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies like FBI, DEA, ATFState police agencies, highway patrols
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for jurisdiction scope and federal authorityCompared for regional jurisdiction and law enforcement scope

Federal Law Enforcement and State Police both serve vital roles in maintaining law and order. Federal agencies operate nationwide and handle federal crimes, while State Police focus on state laws and regional issues. Both require similar credentials and training, but differ mainly in jurisdiction and scope.

What job categories do people searching Federal Law Enforcement jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Law Enforcement jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Federal Law Enforcement jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Federal Law Enforcement job openings:
Infographic showing various Federal Law Enforcement job openings in Decatur, GA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,713 per year, or $41.7 per hour.
Border Patrol Agent - Experienced Law Enforcement Professionals (Up to $60K Incentives)

Border Patrol Agent - Experienced Law Enforcement Professionals (Up to $60K Incentives)

United States Customs and Border Protection

Alpharetta, GA

$63K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted yesterday


U.S. Customs and Border Protection rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 643 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Border Patrol Agent (BPA) - Experienced (GL-9 GS-11) NEW RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION INCENTIVES! Check out these higher-salaried federal law enforcement opportunities with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Your current or prior law enforcement experience may qualify you for this career opportunity with the nation's premier federal agency charged with securing our borders and protecting our country. You may qualify for these higher-graded Border Patrol Agent (BPA) employment opportunities if you have current or prior law enforcement experience. This experience could have been gained as part of a military police assignment or as a member of a state or local law enforcement organization.

Look at the duties and responsibilities section below to see if you are interested in these federal law enforcement opportunities and review the qualifications section below to see if you are qualified. DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE INCENTIVES – SEE SALARY SECTION BELOW IMPORTANT NOTICE: Duty assignments available at the time of offer may include the Southwest Border, including prioritized locations. U.S.

Border Patrol determines duty assignments at the time of offer based on operational needs, which may or may not align with candidates’ first-choice preferences. Relocation may be required. The U.S.

Border Patrol (USBP) offers those interested in a career in law enforcement an 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. If you seek an exciting and rewarding job that provides excellent pay and exceptional federal benefits, now is the time to make your move. U.S.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is hiring immediately for these full-time, career Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) opportunities. Salary and Benefits: Salary for newly appointed law enforcement Border Patrol Agents varies from: Base Salary: GL-9/GS-11 $63,148 - $120,145 per year Locality Pay: Varies by duty location. Overtime Pay: Up to 25% Duty location impacts pay rates; locality pay for federal law enforcement is higher in some locations than others.

A fully trained BPA may be eligible for up to an additional 25% of base pay per the BPA Pay Reform Act of 2014. This is a career ladder position with a grade level progression from GL-9 to GS-11 to 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 the lower grade level.

All Border Patrol Agents may select from an array of federal employment benefits that include health and insurance plans, a generous annual and sick leave program, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement plan that is similar to traditional and ROTH 401(k) offerings. *Recruitment Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents (as defined in 5 CFR 575.102 ) will be offered up to a $20,000 incentive. The first $10,000 will be paid upon successful completion of the Border Patrol Academy, with the remaining $10,000 awarded for accepting a prioritized location.

Prioritized locations include Sierra Blanca, TX; Presidio, TX; Sanderson, TX; Comstock, TX; Lordsburg, NM; Freer, TX; Hebbronville, TX; Ajo, AZ. *Retention Incentive* Newly appointed Border Patrol Agents may also qualify for up to $40,000 in additional incentives distributed over their first four years. Duties and Responsibilities: As a BPA, 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 BPA makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession. Typical assignments include: Detecting and questioning people suspected of violating immigration and customs laws and inspecting documents and possessions to determine citizenship or violations. Preventing and apprehending aliens and smugglers of aliens at or near the borders by maintaining surveillance from covert positions to include using infrared scopes during night operations.

Interpreting and following tracks, marks, and other physical evidence of illegal entry of persons or contraband. Performing farm checks, building checks, traffic checks, city patrols, and transportation checks. Patrolling the international boundary and coastal waterways using a variety of government assets such as vehicles, horses, vessels, watercraft, off-road vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles for the accomplishment of the USBP Mission.

Qualifications: GL-9: You qualify for the GL-9 grade level if you possess one (1) year of specialized experience, equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as: Performing physical searches of detained individuals, their vehicles, and their immediate surroundings for weapons, contraband, currency, and other evidence. Apprehending, physically restraining, or working with law enforcement officials to identify or apprehend violators of state, federal, or immigration laws. Proficient in the use of firearms, preparing investigative reports, serving court orders (e.g., warrants, subpoenas, etc.), and gathering evidence for criminal cases prosecuted through the court system.

If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GS-11 grade level. GS-11: You qualify for the GS-11 grade level if you possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, with the authority granted by the state or government to enforce laws, make arrests, and investigate crimes, performing primary duties in an official law enforcement capacity such as: Utilizing intelligence information to track illegal operations, criminal activity, threats to our nation, and/or contraband while serving as a state, federal, or military law enforcement official. Leading investigations of fraud, contraband, criminal activity, threats to our nation, and/or illegal operations to determine sources and patterns while serving as a state, federal, or military law enforcement official.

Apprehending violators of state, federal, or immigration laws by utilizing various forms of complex technology that include surveillance, detection, situation awareness systems, and/or communications equipment. The above experience will be applied in connection with the following: Make arrests and exercise sound judgment in the use of firearms; deal effectively with people in a courteous manner in connection with law enforcement matters; analyze information rapidly and make prompt decisions; or develop and maintain contact with a network of informants. There are no education substitutions for the GL-9 or GS-11 grade-level Border Patrol Agent opportunities.

Other Requirements: Citizenship : You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position. Residency : You must have had primary U.S.

residency (including protectorates as declared under international law) for at least three of the last five 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 Border Patrol Agent 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 : After you are hired, you will be detailed to the U.S.

Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, New Mexico, for approximately six (6) months of intensive instruction in immigration and nationality laws, law enforcement, and USBP-specific operations, driver training, physical techniques, firearms, and other courses. Border Patrol work requires the ability to speak and read Spanish, as well as English. Border Patrol Agents will be provided training to become proficient in the Spanish language at the Academy.

How to Apply: Click the Apply button on this site. You will be linked to the CBP Talent Network registration page. For Position of Interest, select Border Patrol Agent, and then complete the pre-screening questions.

You’ll then receive a link(s) to the BPA Job Opening Announcements (JOAs) on USAJOBS, the federal government’s official employment site, 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 BPA Entrance Exam.

If you have questions about the application process, contact a recruiter through the U.S. Border Patrol page: careers.cbp.gov/s/usbp. NOTE: As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you’ll receive monthly emails with information about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with 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