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Border Patrol Agents

Earnings

According to the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, pay for CBP Officers begins at the GS-5 level and progresses through levels GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, and GS-12. Officers beginning employment in January 2024 could make $46,507 per year (a base salary of $33,878 plus an average of $12,629 in additional compensation for locality pay, overtime, and night differential). At the middle of the scale (GS-9), officers could earn $73,993 (annual base pay of $51,332 plus $22,661 in additional compensation), while the highest level (GS-12) offered annual base pay of $74,181 plus $46,915 in extra compensation, for a total of $121,356. The CBP explains that, with supervisor approval, officers can advance up the ladder after successfully completing one year of service at each grade level.

As federal workers, border patrol agents enjoy generous benefits, including health and life insurance, pension plans, and paid holidays, sick leave, and vacations.

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