So you’re considering a position with the U.S. Border Patrol. There are a few things you need to know.

First, are you qualified? You may qualify for the BPA position based on education, experience, or a combination of both.

Experience Requirements for a GL-5 level: Applicants must have a substantial background of work experience of which at least one year must have been comparable in level of difficulty and responsibility to grade GL-4 in the Federal service. This type of experience must demonstrate the ability to do all three of the following:

1. Take charge, make sound decisions, and maintain composure in stressful situations;

2. Learn law enforcement regulations, methods and techniques through classroom training and/or on-the-job instruction;

3. Gather factual information through questioning, observation, and examination of documents and records.

Experience requirements for GS-7 and GS-9 position may be found at www.usajobs.gov by typing in Border Patrol Agent into the search function and selecting the Border Patrol Agent job offer.

Second, what duties are performed by Border Patrol Agents? One of the most important activities of a Border Patrol Agent is line-watch. This involves the detection, prevention, and apprehension of undocumented aliens and smugglers of aliens at or near the land border by maintaining surveillance from a covert position, following up leads, responding to electronic sensor alarms, infrared scopes during night operations, low light level television systems, aircraft sightings, and interpreting and following tracks, marks and other physical evidence. Some of the other major activities are farm and ranch checks, traffic check, traffic observation, city patrol, transportation check, administrative, intelligence, and anti-smuggling activities. This is the bread and butter of what we do.

Third, how do I apply? Go to www.usajobs.gov and search for Border Patrol Agent as described above. Select the job offer and click on the How To Apply tab. This will take you through a step by step process to apply for the position of Border Patrol Agent. This tab includes links to the application process and also describes what you can expect along the way.

You will be scheduled take the Border Patrol Entrance Exam within a few short weeks. The How To Apply tab also offers a link to a study guide. Other study guides including the Border Patrol Exam, 3rd Edition may come in handy while preparing for your entrance exam. http://www.policelink.com/products/products/2070-border-patrol-exam-3rd-edition-

Lastly, once you’ve passed the entrance exam you should start preparing for the academy which lasts up to 19 weeks for those who are required to learn Spanish (native Spanish speakers can test out of the Spanish course). Preparation should include physical exercise (running, swimming, aerobics) and basic Spanish prep for those who do not speak the language. Good luck and welcome to the U.S. Border Patrol.