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Interdiction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Interdiction information

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How much do interdiction jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 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 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 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 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 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.

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.

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.

Air Interdiction Agent with Security Clearance

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Miami, FL • On-site

$189K/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

Pilot-CBP Air 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 skilled Pilots interested 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 to protect America. If you are looking for an exciting and rewarding career with excellent pay, exceptional federal benefits and job stability, now is the time to make your move: become an Air Interdiction Agent. AMO is actively recruiting for these full-time security-based opportunities with a streamlined application process. Notably, seasoned pilots and those with military training are in demand-APPLY TODAY! DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE INCENTIVES - SEE SALARY SECTION BELOW! Duty Locations Locations are offered based on operational requirements, mission requirements, and critical agency hiring needs as determined by AMO. You must be willing to work at any duty location within the region you select to include but not limited to the following: * Southeast Region: Homestead, FL and CAMB: Aguadilla, PR * Southwest Region: Tucson and Yuma, AZ; San Diego, CA; El Paso, Laredo, and McAllen, TX * NASOC UAS locations: Sierra Vista, AZ; San Angelo, TX Duties and Responsibilities As an Air Interdiction Agent (AIA) you will perform aviation-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 include: * Conducting air patrol, surveillance, and pursuit activities related to the interdiction of smuggled contraband via land vehicles, aircraft, or vessels. * Monitoring behavior patterns and activities of suspect persons, vehicles, or vessels believed to be engaged in illegal activities. * Collecting, refining, and analyzing strategic and tactical intelligence. * Supporting search and rescue and humanitarian efforts. Salary and Benefits Begin your career as an Air Interdiction Agent (AIA) and make up to $88,509 - $163,996 per year based on your qualifications for the GS-11 grade level and possible extra compensation based on your duty location (see below). Recruitment Incentive: New hires may be eligible to 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.) Your starting salary will include Special Salary Rate (SSR); Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP); Recruitment Incentive; and Retention Incentive. 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). Example of annual compensation for the first three years at our new-hire locations which are currently authorized to receive LEAP (amounts below include the SSR + LEAP). >
* GS-11, 1st year annual pay - $120,636 * GS-12, 2nd year annual pay - $132,606 * GS-13, 3rd year annual pay - $157,686 Example of annual compensation for the first three years at our new-hire locations which are currently authorized to receive a 10% Retention Incentive (amounts below include the SSR + LEAP + 10% Retention Incentive UAS Sites: Sierra Vista, AZ; Grand Forks, ND; San Angelo, TX). * GS-11, 1st year annual pay - $120,636 * GS-12, 2nd year annual pay - $159,127 * GS-13, 3rd year annual pay - $189,223 Retention Incentive: Retention Incentive is contingent on eligibility. Eligibility will be determined by Human Resources. * RI: Retention Incentive (25% for UAS Sites, Sierra Vista, AZ, Grand Forks, ND, San Angelo, TX) * RI: Retention Incentive (25% for Key West, FL) * RI: Retention Incentive (25% for Caribbean Air and Marine Branch (CAMB) and subordinate locations) Air Interdiction 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. Qualifications Experience: You qualify for the GS-11 grade level if you possess one (1) year of specialized professional aviation experience performing duties such as: * Flying as a Pilot-in-Command or sole manipulator in an airplane and helicopter in all environments of flight, including night, poor weather, unfavorable terrain, low altitudes, or speed. * Evaluating information rapidly and making judicious decisions promptly during in-flight operations. * Developing strategies and coordinating aircraft and ground assets. * Using information systems and databases to conduct information surveys, queries, update files and disseminate information. * Experience may include Operation of an aircraft as Captain, Pilot in Command, Aircraft Commander, First Officer, Certified Flight Instructor, Second in Command, or Co-pilot. Hiring Minimums: Certification & Ratings: A current FAA Commercial or ATP Pilot Certification with one of the following ratings: * Dual Rated: Airplane (Single-engine land or multi-engine land) with instrument rating AND Rotorcraft Helicopter with instrument rating. * Airplane Rated: Airplane (Single-engine land or multi-engine land) with instrument. * Helicopter Rated: Rotorcraft Helicopter with instrument rating. * Equivalent military rating of the above at the time of application (eligibility based on military flight experience must provide official orders, forms or logbooks showing their status as a rated military pilot). Flight Hours: Pilot Enter on Duty minimums are 1500 flight hours; (up to 500 hours can be waived, reducing the pilot enter on duty minimums to 1000 hours. 250 Pilot-in-Command hours; 75 Instrument hours; 75 Night hours (Flight Hour Waiver available, see Required Documents); and 100 Flight hours in the last 12 months This qualification requirement is currently being waived by OPM through August 4, 2026. FAA Class 2 medical required for assessment dated within the last 12 calendar months; FAA Class 1, FAA Class 2 or Military medical flight clearance dated within the last 12 months qualifies to start the pre-employment process for the AIA position. Apply at 750 hours total time: Applicants applying at 750 flight hours are required to obtain at least 1,000 flight hours (depending on the number of hours approved for a waiver) at their own expense before being able to attend the 3-part flight assessment. Applicants must still meet 250 Pilot-in-Command, 75 instrument, and 75-night hours (100 flight hours in the last 12 months. This qualification requirement is currently being waived by OPM through August 4, 2026) UAS Flight Hours: Applicants may include UAS Predator A (MQ-1), Predator B (MQ-9) flight hours and Predator A (MQ-1), Predator B (MQ-9) or predator-based flight hours. These hours may be credited towards satisfying the "Total flight time" 1,500 flight hour requirement only. UAS hours do not count towards the 250 flight hours as a Pilot in Command, 75 flight hours Instrument, and 75 flight hours Night. Flight hour logbooks will be required at the time of your Flight Assessment for verification. 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: Provisions of Public Laws 93-350 and 100-238 allow the imposition of a maximum age for initial appointment to a primary Law Enforcement Officer position within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In accordance with DHS Management Directive 251-03, the "day before an individual's 37th birthday" is the maximum age for original appointment to a position as a primary law enforcement officer within DHS. The age requirement is also necessary to ensure that you are able to complete the 20 years of applicable service for retirement. NOTE: The Commissioner of CBP has approved a temporary increase in the maximum allowable age to 40 for original placement into an Air Interdiction Agent position. 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 successfully complete the training requirement as a condition of employment. Failure to successfully complete the required course(s) of training in accordance with CBP standards and policies will result in placement into either a former or different position, demotion, or separation as determined by management and appropriate procedures. Travel Required: You may be expected to travel for this position based on

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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