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Interdiction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Interdiction information

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$36K

$56K

$102.5K

How much do interdiction jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for interdiction in the United States is $55,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $69,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is interdiction?

Interdiction jobs involve law enforcement professionals who work to detect, prevent, and stop illegal activities such as drug trafficking, smuggling, and other forms of contraband movement. These roles are often found within agencies like border patrol, customs, and specialized task forces. Interdiction officers use intelligence, surveillance, and search techniques to intercept illegal goods or people before they reach their intended destination. The work can be demanding and may involve working at borders, airports, seaports, or highways.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an interdiction officer?

To thrive as an Interdiction Officer, you need a background in law enforcement or military, strong investigative skills, and often specialized training in interdiction tactics. Familiarity with surveillance technology, communication systems, and relevant certifications (such as from agencies like DEA or Customs and Border Protection) is typically required. Keen attention to detail, sound judgment, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for identifying threats and responding to high-pressure situations. These competencies are essential for effectively intercepting illegal activities, ensuring public safety, and supporting broader security operations.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in interdiction roles, and how can they manage these challenges?

Professionals in interdiction roles often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing operational environments, high-stress situations, and the need to make quick, informed decisions under pressure. They must frequently collaborate with multiple agencies, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills. To manage these challenges, it's important to stay current with training, develop resilience, and foster strong interagency relationships. Maintaining situational awareness and adhering to established protocols also help ensure effective and safe operations.

What is the difference between Interdiction vs Customs Officer?

AspectInterdictionCustoms Officer
Primary RoleDetecting and preventing illegal activities such as drug trafficking, smuggling, or terrorismInspecting goods and passengers to enforce customs laws and collect duties
Work EnvironmentBorder crossings, ports, airports, and security checkpointsCustoms offices, border stations, and ports
Required CredentialsSecurity training, law enforcement certifications, sometimes specialized interdiction coursesHigh school diploma or equivalent, law enforcement or customs training

Interdiction focuses on preventing illegal activities at borders or ports, often involving law enforcement skills. Customs Officers primarily enforce customs laws, inspect shipments, and collect duties. While both roles operate in border and port environments and may require similar certifications, interdiction emphasizes security and crime prevention, whereas customs officers focus on legal compliance and revenue collection.

What are the requirements to become an interdiction agent?

To become an interdiction agent, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant law enforcement or military experience, and must pass background checks, physical fitness tests, and training programs. Additional qualifications may include specialized skills in investigation, surveillance, or firearms, depending on the agency.

What does an interdiction officer do?

An interdiction officer is responsible for detecting and preventing illegal activities such as drug trafficking, smuggling, or other criminal enterprises, often at borders, ports, or transportation hubs. They use surveillance, inspection, and intelligence-gathering skills, and may require specialized training or certifications. Their work involves collaboration with law enforcement agencies to enforce laws and ensure security.
More about Interdiction jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Interdiction jobs?

The most popular types of Interdiction jobs are:

What states have the most Interdiction jobs?

States with the most job openings for Interdiction jobs include:

Infographic showing various Interdiction job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,965 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Day-to-day responsibilities of this position:

  •  The incumbent will implement the Utah Department of Natural Resource's (UDNR) invasive mussel action plan within
    an assigned region in order to keep aquatic invasive species (AIS) from becoming established in Utah, and containing
    existing AIS to locations where they have become established within Utah. The primary focus of the action plan
    involves outreach and interdiction efforts to identify suspect boats and other water-related recreational equipment
    contaminated with AIS including decontamination of that equipment. The incumbent will be the lead biologist tasked
    with coordinating and implementing all duties related to the AIS interdiction program in the assigned area. They will
    work with and supervise the activities of multiple, seasonal wildlife technicians assigned to the project, including
    coordination with law enforcement and other biologists.