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Performs customs patrol work including border patrol, interdiction, and enforcement between ports of entry.
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-1884
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal customs patrol officer position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Skill in conducting patrol and surveillance activities.
Knowledge of customs and immigration laws.
Ability to detect smuggling and illegal activity.
Skill in operating patrol vehicles.
Ability to conduct surveillance operations.
Knowledge of arrest and detention procedures.
Qualification with assigned firearms.
Ability to communicate and coordinate with other officers.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
NOTE: GS-1884 Customs Patrol Officer is a CANCELLED series. This occupational classification has been officially discontinued by OPM. Border patrol and interdiction work between ports of entry is now primarily covered under GS-1896 (Border Patrol Agent) series. Port of entry inspection work is covered under GS-1895 (CBP Officer series).
When CBP was formed under DHS, the GS-1884 Customs Patrol Officer series was merged with Border Patrol functions under GS-1896. Customs patrol work at and near ports is now performed by CBP Officers (GS-1895) or Border Patrol Agents (GS-1896) depending on specific location and duties.
To pursue the patrol and interdiction work formerly done by Customs Patrol Officers, apply for GS-1896 Border Patrol Agent positions through USAJOBS. Border Patrol Agents patrol between ports of entry, interdict smuggling, apprehend illegal crossers, and enforce immigration and customs laws along U.S. borders.
GS-1896 Border Patrol Agent positions require U.S. citizenship, bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, passing physical fitness test and medical examination, firearms qualification, and extensive background investigation. Age limits apply (generally under 40 at entry). Spanish language proficiency is required or must be acquired during training.
Yes, military experience is highly valued for Border Patrol Agent (GS-1896) positions. Veterans with infantry, military police, reconnaissance, or combat arms experience have excellent backgrounds. Military discipline, weapons proficiency, tactical skills, and experience in austere environments transfer directly. Veterans preference provides significant hiring advantages.
Search USAJOBS.gov for GS-1896 (Border Patrol Agent) for patrol work between ports of entry, or GS-1895 (CBP Officer) for port of entry work. CBP is one of the largest federal law enforcement agencies and actively recruits. Positions are available along the Southern border, Northern border, and coastal areas.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.