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Homeland Security Agent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Agent

Seattle, WA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

HPD Security is an elite security agency that is powered by technology. We are locally owned company who take great pride in professionalism and taking care of our clients and agents. Come join a ...

Contact Center Agent

Fort Worth, TX

$15.50 - $21/hr

A Day in the Life of a Contact Center Agent A Day in the Life of a Contact Center Agent starts with ... S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employer's Form I-9 to ...

Contact Center Agent

Fort Worth, TX

$15.50 - $21/hr

Contact Center Agent A Day in the Life of a Contact Center Agent starts with making every ... S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employer's Form I-9 to ...

Contact Center Agent

Fort Worth, TX

$15.50 - $21/hr

A Day in the Life of a Contact Center Agent A Day in the Life of a Contact Center Agent starts with ... S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employer's Form I-9 to ...

Contact Center Agent

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

A Day in the Life of a Contact Center Agent A Day in the Life of a Contact Center Agent starts with ... S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employer's Form I-9 to ...

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How much do homeland security agent jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for homeland security agent in the United States is $54,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $56,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Homeland Security Agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Homeland Security Agent, you need a solid background in criminal justice, investigative techniques, and security protocols, often supported by a relevant bachelor’s degree and successful completion of federal training programs. Familiarity with surveillance technology, data analysis software, and secure communication systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent interpersonal skills help agents assess threats, collaborate with diverse teams, and communicate effectively. These skills are vital for protecting national security, preventing threats, and ensuring the safety of the public.

What are some common challenges Homeland Security Agents face in their daily work, and how are they supported in overcoming them?

Homeland Security Agents often encounter challenges such as rapidly evolving threats, unpredictable work hours, and high-pressure situations requiring quick decision-making. They may also face complex investigations that involve coordination with multiple agencies. To support agents, agencies provide extensive training, clear protocols, and strong teamwork environments. Additionally, agents benefit from access to advanced technology and regular briefings to stay informed about current risks.

What does a homeland security agent do?

A homeland security agent is responsible for protecting the nation's borders, infrastructure, and citizens from threats such as terrorism, illegal immigration, and cyber attacks. They conduct investigations, perform security screenings, and may work in law enforcement, intelligence, or emergency management roles, often requiring specialized training and security clearances.

How do I become a homeland security agent?

To become a Homeland Security Agent, candidates typically need to have a bachelor's degree, pass a background check, and complete specialized training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. Relevant skills include law enforcement experience, physical fitness, and knowledge of security procedures; some positions may also require specific certifications or clearances.

How much do homeland security agents get paid?

Homeland Security agents, such as Transportation Security Officers and Immigration Enforcement Officers, typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific role. Federal agents often receive additional benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans, and may require background checks and security clearances.

Is it hard to get hired by homeland security?

Getting hired as a Homeland Security Agent can be competitive due to strict requirements such as background checks, physical fitness, and specialized training. Candidates often need relevant experience, security clearances, and sometimes military or law enforcement backgrounds, making the hiring process thorough and selective.

What is the difference between Homeland Security Agent vs Customs Officer?

AspectHomeland Security AgentCustoms Officer
Required CredentialsBackground check, security clearance, sometimes specialized trainingBackground check, security clearance, customs training
Work EnvironmentFederal agencies, border security, airports, portsBorder crossings, airports, shipping ports
Employer & IndustryDepartment of Homeland Security, federal governmentCustoms and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Homeland Security Agents and Customs Officers both work within the federal government and focus on security at borders and transportation hubs. While Homeland Security Agents often handle broader national security tasks, Customs Officers primarily focus on inspecting goods and travelers crossing borders. Both roles require security clearances and work in similar environments, but their specific duties and training differ.

What are Homeland Security Agents?

Homeland Security Agents are federal law enforcement officers who work to protect the United States from threats such as terrorism, illegal immigration, cyber attacks, and natural disasters. They are employed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and may work in various agencies, such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), or the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Their responsibilities include investigating security threats, enforcing immigration laws, securing borders and transportation systems, and responding to emergencies. These agents play a critical role in maintaining national safety and security.
More about Homeland Security Agent jobs
What cities are hiring for Homeland Security Agent jobs? Cities with the most Homeland Security Agent job openings:
What states have the most Homeland Security Agent jobs? States with the most job openings for Homeland Security Agent jobs include:
Aviation Enforcement Agent

Aviation Enforcement Agent

US Department of Homeland Security

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

$109K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


U.S. Department Of Homeland Security rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

84th of 275 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Organizational Location: This position is with the Department of Homeland Security, within U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Air and Marine Operations located in Oklahoma City, OK (National Air Training Center) and San Diego, CA.
Additional selections may be made to include other organizational divisions and/or units within the duty location(s) listed above.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:
  • Serving as a primary law enforcement agent on DHS interdiction aircraft.
  • Operating technologically advanced systems such as laser systems infrared detectors and radars to aid in detecting targets of interest.
  • Evaluating intelligence to determine aviation smuggling patterns.
  • Writing concise, in-depth narrative reports to assist government prosecutors.
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.
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 06/16/2026.
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 Aviation Enforcement Agent 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.
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
Probationary Period: All employees new to the federal government must serve a one year probationary period during the first year of his/her initial permanent federal appointment to determine fitness for continued employment. Current and former federal employees may be required to serve or complete a probationary period.
Travel: Frequent and/or long term deployments may be required within the United States and abroad.
Uniforms: This position requires you to wear an officially-approved uniform while in a duty status.
Motor Vehicle Operation: You must possess the ability to operate a Government Owned Vehicle. A valid, non-restricted driver's license is required.
Age Requirement: Provisions of Public Law 93-950 and 100-238 allow the imposition of a maximum age for initial appointment to a Primary law enforcement position with the Department of Homeland Security. Candidates must be referred for selection before reaching their 37th birthday. Creditable service covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c), Title 5 U.S.C 8412(d) or creditable service on or after July 6, 2008 covered by Public Law 110-161 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). The age restriction does not apply if you are a Veteran's preference eligible.
Rigorous Law Enforcement Officer Special Retirement Coverage: This is a rigorous position subject to mandatory retirement under the special retirement provisions for law enforcement officers under CSRS and FERS (5 CFR 842.803 and 5 CFR 831.903, Conditions for Coverage; 5 USC 8425(b) and 5 USC 8335(b), Mandatory Separation; and 5 USC 8412(d) and 5 USC 8336(c), Immediate Retirement). For more information on required years of service and retirement age, click on this link. For further information on when an employee continues or discontinues coverage under the special retirement system for law enforcement officers, please see the CSRS and FERS handbook, Chapter 46 (CSRS pages 12-14, and FERS pages 41-43).If you have questions regarding your retirement coverage provisions, please contact the CBP Retirement Operations Center at (202) 863-6180.
Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) Eligibles: If you have never worked for the federal government, you are not CTAP eligible. View information about CTAP eligibilityon OPM's Career Transition Resources website. You must submit the supporting documents listed under the Required Documents section of this announcement. To be considered well qualified under CTAP, you must be rated at a minimum score of 85 for this position.Education:Please see the Qualifications and Required Documents sections for more information if education is applicable to this position.
Reasonable Accommodation (RA) Requests: If you believe you have a disability (i.e., physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended that would interfere with completing the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, you will be granted the opportunity to request a RA in your online application. Requests for RA for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments and appropriate supporting documentation for RA must be received prior to starting the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Decisions on requests for RA are made on a case-by-case basis. If you meet the minimum qualifications of the position, after notification of the adjudication of your request, you will receive an email invitation to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, based on your adjudication decision. You must complete all assessments within 48 hours of receiving the URL to access the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, if you received the link after the close of the announcement. To determine if you need a RA, please review the Procedures for Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for Online Assessments here.Employment Type: OTHER

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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