Los Angeles, California - For the first time in over a decade, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is now accepting applications for the Los Angeles area directly. This is a rare opportunity for the people of Los Angeles and its neighboring counties to apply for a CBP officer position and stay in the area.

CBP officer conducting passenger processing functions at LAX

A CBP officer conducting passenger
processing functions at LAX.

“CBP officers have exciting careers enforcing laws that protect the United States. Joining our ranks could mark the beginning of a well-paid, meaningful and rewarding career in federal law enforcement and an opportunity to make a positive impact in our local communities,” said Carlos C. Martel, CBP Director of Field Operations in Los Angeles.

CBP employees protect our Nation's borders from terrorism, human and drug smuggling, illegal migration, and agricultural pests while simultaneously facilitating the flow of legitimate travel and trade.

Entry-level Applicants

Entry-level applicants must apply for the GS 05 – 07 vacancy announcement. Starting salary is $37,793 - $49,133. This is a career ladder position with a grade level progression of GS-5, GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, and 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 each grade level (with supervisor approval). Potential pay in five years, including maximum overtime earnings, is $128,043.

Applicants with Law Enforcement/Military Experience

Applicants with current or previous law enforcement or military experience must apply for the GS 09 vacancy announcement. Starting salary is $57,264 - $74,444. This is a career ladder position with a grade level progression of GS-9, GS-11, and 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 each grade level (with supervisor approval). Potential pay in five years, including maximum overtime earnings, is $128,043.

Applicants are encouraged to apply immediately as positions will close on May 31st.

Typical assignments include: Enforcing customs, immigration, and agriculture law and regulations; Facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel; Conducting inspections of individuals and conveyances; Determining the admissibility of individuals for entry into the United States; and Preventing the illegal entry of individuals and prohibited goods and the smuggling of illegal drugs and other contraband.

CBP Officer Benefits

As a CBP Officer, your job is not only exciting, but also features rewarding benefits. You have the stability of a Federal job, as well as several benefits that are only available to law enforcement positions, such as enhanced law enforcement retirement coverage.

CBP offers competitive pay, paid time off, career progression, health insurance, life insurance and a generous retirement.

For more information visit: CBP Officer Pay and Benefits

Conditions of Employment

  • You must successfully pass a polygraph examination
  • You must successfully pass a background investigation
  • Convictions of misdemeanor crime of domestic violence are disqualifying
  • You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this position
  • You must have resided in the U.S. for the last 3 years
  • Referred for selection prior to your 40th birthday (waiver for veterans)
  • You must meet job-related medical, fitness and drug-testing standards
  • You will be required to work regular and recurring shift work
  • You will be required to carry a firearm
  • You must have a valid driver's license

Questions? Need to speak with a local CBP recruiter?

We have a team of knowledgeable recruiters available to answer all your questions and to provide you with guidance and helpful tips about filling your application.

Over the phone: (562) 980-3140 extensions 106, 177, 173, Monday to Friday during regular business hours.

Via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Upcoming Recruiting Events:

You could also meet our recruiters in person in the following recruiting events:

May 9th - Orange County Hiring Fair  
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa Building 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

May 10th Best Hire Career Fair-Las Vegas 
Palace Station, 2411 W. Sahara Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89102
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

May 16th - Honor a Hero-Hire a Vet Job Fair
Compton Community College, 1111 E. Artesia Blvd., Compton, CA 90221
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

May 18th - Veteran Affairs Law Enforcement Event 
VA Long Beach 5901 E. Seventh St., Long Beach, CA 90822
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

May 19th - Compton Airport Job Fair 
Tomorrow’s Aeronautical Museum, 961 W. Alondra Blvd., Compton, CA
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The video: Securing America's Ports of Entry emphasizes the importance of CBP Field Operations' frontline role in helping CBP accomplish its mission.

For more information on CBP's mission, activities, and careers, please visit our website at www.cbp.gov. Being a Customs and Border Protection Officer makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession.