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Interdiction Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Dallas, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Arlington, TX · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Laredo, TX · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Mckinney, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Nacogdoches, TX · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

San Marcos, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

The Woodlands, TX · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Huntsville, TX · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Austin, TX · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

El Paso, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations * Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials * Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code ...

Showing results 21-40

Interdiction information

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.
Infographic showing various Interdiction job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Marine Interdiction Agent with Security Clearance

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Brownsville, TX • On-site

$191K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 18 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

169th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Marine Interdiction Agent - New Hire Sign-On and Retention Incentives NEW RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION INCENTIVES! Air and Marine Operations (AMO), a component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers those with Merchant Mariner Credentials the exceptional opportunity of a career in law enforcement working with an elite team of highly trained professionals whose camaraderie, pride, and purpose are hallmarks of their daily mission protecting America. If you're looking for an exciting and rewarding job that also provides great pay, benefits, and job stability, now is the time to make your move: become a Marine Interdiction Agent. AMO is actively seeking applicants to fill full-time security-based positions with the nation's largest law enforcement organization charged with maintaining the security of our national borders while facilitating lawful international travel and trade. DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE INCENTIVES - SEE SALARY SECTION BELOW! Salary and Benefits Begin your career as a Marine Interdiction Agent (MIA) and make up to $76,745-$142,199per year based on your qualifications for the GS-11 grade level and possible extra compensation based on your duty location. Recruitment Incentive: New hires that are eligible may receive a one-time Recruitment Incentive payout of $10,000 after completing Federal Law Enforcement Training Academy (FLETC) (1 year service agreement will need to be completed) (Recruitment Incentive is only available to new Federal employees. Eligibility will be determined by Human Resources.) Example annual compensation for the first three years at our CAMB and subordinates new-hire locations (RUS + LEAP + 25% Retention Incentive after one year of service). * GS-11 1st year annual pay - $105,931 * GS-12 2nd or 3rd year annual pay - $137,977 * GS-13 3rd year of annual pay - $164,075 Example annual compensation for the first three years at our Key West, Key Largo, and Marathon, FL new-hire locations (Locality Salary Table + LEAP) * GS-11 1st year annual pay - $112,168 * GS-12 2nd or 3rd year annual pay - $146,946 * GS-13 3rd year of annual pay - $174,739 Example annual compensation for the first three years at our Long Beach, CA new-hire locations (Locality Salary Table + LEAP + 25% Retention Incentive after one year of service) * GS-11 1st year annual pay - $121,840 * GS-12 2nd or 3rd year annual pay - $160,859 * GS-13 3rd year of annual pay - $191,284 This career ladder position has a grade level progression of GS-11, GS-12 and GS-13. You may be eligible for a promotion to the next higher grade level automatically (without re-applying) once you complete 52-weeks at each grade level (with supervisor approval) and any additional training, licensing, and certification requirements. Agents 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. Recruitment Incentive (RI) : Upon Entrance on Duty (EOD), you may be eligible to receive a Recruitment Incentive * LEAP: Law Enforcement Availability Pay (25% Everyone) * RI: Retention Incentive (25% for Caribbean Air and Marine Branch (CAMB) Locations, Key Largo, FL, Key West, FL, Marathon, FL and Long Beach, CA) *Retention Incentive is contingent on eligibility. Eligibility will be determined by Human Resources Duty Locations A duty location will be offered after successful completion of the pre-employment process. The duty location listed in the final offer letter may include any geographic location within the Southwest Region, Southeast Region or Caribbean Air and Marine Branch. Note: Your opportunity for final selection is increased based on your flexibility to Enter on Duty at priority duty location. Current possible duty locations include: * Southeast Region: Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Marathon, FL and CAMB: Fajardo, Mayaguez, Ponce, and San Juan PR; and Saint Thomas, VI * Northern Region: Bellingham, WA Limited Duty Locations as of - 12/1/2025 Applying to this JOA does not guarantee any of the locations listed below will still be available once you've completed the pre-employment process. Locations are offered based on the current needs of the service at that time. * Northern Region: Port Huron, MI * Southeast Region: Houma, LA * Southwest Region: San Diego, CA Duties and Responsibilities As a Marine Interdiction Agent, you will perform marine-based law enforcement operations for the detection, prevention, interdiction, and apprehension of terrorists, terrorist weapons, and other contraband and persons from illegally entering or attacking the United States. Typical duties may include: * Monitoring behavior patterns and activities of suspect persons, vehicles, or vessels believed to be engaged in illegal activities. * Interpreting radar data to calculate appropriate intercept while tracking vessels and people to a successful interdiction. * Searching persons, vessels, baggage, and cargo for contraband or weapons incidental to detention or arrest. * Collecting, refining, and analyzing strategic and tactical intelligence. Qualifications This GS-11 grade level position has a selective factor: As a minimum qualification requirement all candidates must have a qualifying Merchant Mariner Credential. See the U.S. Coast Guard Issued Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) section that is listed below for qualifying capacities. You qualify for the GS-11 grade level if you possess one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, performing duties such as: * Independently applying advanced skill in controlling/commanding law enforcement scenes to include conducting searches, making arrests, processing arrests and seizure of evidence and property. * Conducting investigative inquiries using various techniques, examining files and records, physical and documentary evidence to identify logical conclusions. * Utilizing cameras and other electronic high-tech surveillance equipment to gather evidence, collect, evaluate, and then preserve that physical and documentary evidence. * Highly skilled in writing comprehensive arrest, criminal and incident reports. * Assisting government or state attorneys in preparation for court cases or grand juries, testifies as a law enforcement officer in court proceedings, and administrative forums. * Considerable experience applying arrest authorities and constitutional law in various alleged criminal situations, or knowledge and experience of CBP laws, regulations, policies, legal precedent. OR GS-11 Education Substitution for experience: A Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree, three (3) full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree, or LL.M. OR Combining Experience and Education: A combination of successfully completed post-bachelors' education (above) and experience. This will be calculated using your resume and unofficial transcripts submitted with your application. AND U.S. Coast Guard Issued Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC): You must submit a valid, legible copy of your Merchant Mariner Credential at time of application. Your copies must include the expiration and capacity pages of your MMC. * Qualifying Capacities are Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV), Mate of 200 gross tons or greater (Inland, Great Lakes, Near Coastal or Oceans), Chief Mate, Second Mate, and Third Mate Unlimited Oceans or Master of 25 GRT or greater (Inland, Great Lakes, Near Coastal or Oceans) * OR An Accepted MMLD Application: You must submit proof an accepted MMLD application, for a MMC with a qualifying capacity, and a credential status that is in a positive standing. It cannot be pending additional information for MMLD application process. You must have your Official MMC Credential in hand at the time of scheduling and at assessment appointment. 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. 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 of the last five years. Age Requirement: 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). AGE WAIVER: Creditable law enforcement officer service - Covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d), or creditable service covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8401(36) (as a Customs and Border Protection Officer) on or after July 6, 2008, 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). Veterans' Preference Eligibility - To ensure compliance with statutes pertaining to the appointment of preference eligible veterans as determined by the Merit Systems Protection Board in its decision Isabella v. Dept of State , the maximum age for original appointment articulated above shall not apply to the hiring of individuals entitled to veterans' preference eligibility under 5 U.S.C. 3312. You must submit proof of Veteran's Preference (DD-214 Member 4 Copy) at the time of application. Training: This position has a training requirement. You may be required to successfull

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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