Working at CBP…
…isn’t like any other job.
Our hiring process has several steps.
But each one is NECESSARY to make sure we’re hiring people
who are QUALIFIED and CAPABLE of doing this work.
So, if you’re interested in CBP
here’s what you need to know
to complete our hiring process successfully
for Border Patrol Agent positions.
Let’s go step-by-step.
First, you apply.
You can find open positions through our website
or USAJobs.gov.
You’ll answer questions
regarding your experience
and readiness for the position
and submit your resume,
transcripts,
and documents to verify your age
and whether you’re a veteran.
After submitting your application,
you’ll be asked to complete a self-assessment
called the “Candidate Experience Record”
that tells us about your prior work experience and education.
Then, you’ll take an Entrance Exam
that tests your logical reasoning
at an in-person facility.
Both are important measures of whether you’ll perform well at CBP.
Then, we’ll review your exam results,
your resume,
and the other documents you submitted.
Your resume is important,
so be sure it’s well written.
It should help us understand your prior experience and education
and why you’re qualified and motivated to join CBP.
If everything looks good –
congratulations.
You’ll have a conditional offer.
The next steps are important,
and you can help your application move quickly
by preparing for them and completing them on time
After you receive your conditional offer,
we’ll send you an email with instructions to fill out an e-QIP.
e-QIP is the Federal Government’s digital portal
used to conduct background investigations.
It asks for a lot of information,
and it’s essential that you fill it out completely and truthfully.
Failing to provide all required information the first time
can significantly lengthen your hiring process.
You’ll also receive an email from us to initiate your medical exam.
The medical exam includes a medical history review,
physician exam,
and a vision and hearing test.
Jobs at CBP are demanding,
and we need to make sure you’re medically and physically capable of performing the job safely.
YOU will be responsible for scheduling your tests
and submitting your medical documentation,
so make sure you submit ALL the documentation requested,
and be aware that CBP medical staff
may call or email to request follow-up information.
Last but not least,
we’ll email you instructions for your Physical Fitness Test.
If you’re concerned about passing,
the Physical Fitness Test is something you can train for
before you even apply.
The earlier you get started, the better.
See our website for more information
and a suggested training plan.
Then come your interviews.
The Structured Interview consists of a three-person panel.
They’ll ask questions designed to measure your decision-making,
emotional maturity,
interpersonal skills,
and more,
seeking to understand if you have the competencies
to be a successful member of our team.
The Pre-Screening Interview is designed to measure your likelihood
of passing the background investigation.
CBP requires every employee to be
of good conduct and good character.
That means all selected applicants need to go through the next three steps.
The polygraph helps us verify that applicants
have no compromising personal issues
or past behavior that would reflect poorly
on their ability to be a responsible,
reliable, member of our team.
For the background investigation,
an investigator will verify the information you provided on your e-QIP,
including interviewing you,
the personal and professional references you provide,
and others.
The drug test will verify that there are no concerns about your use of controlled substances.
See our website for more information about the polygraph,
the background investigation,
and the drug test.
If everything looks good,
then you’re in.
You’ll receive your offer to join our community
and be a part of our mission.
Be prepared:
our hiring process can be lengthy,
and there are some things that’ll be out of your control,
like the time it takes to schedule your polygraph,
or to review and process your exam results.
But there are many things that ARE in your control
and that YOU can do to help your application go through faster.
Read all instructions thoroughly.
Provide all information requested.
And complete and submit all forms and documentation
as soon as possible.
And we may ask you to do multiple steps at once,
to help speed the process along.
And remember – CBP is here to help you along the way.
You’ll be notified of each action or step you need to complete via email,
and you can contact the Hiring Center at any point if you need help or have questions.
It’s a rigorous process...
because it’s a rigorous job.
We’re here to help,
and to make sure that once you’re hired,
you’re ready…
to Go Beyond.
If you’re interested in applying,
join our Talent Network to learn more
or head to cbp.gov/careers/apply-now to start your application.