Safeguarding Our Borders: The Supervisory CBP Agricultural Specialist Role
Are you ready to combine your passion for the biological sciences with a career in national security? The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently seeking a leader to fill the role of Supervisory CBP Agricultural Specialist in Nogales, Arizona. This position is a cornerstone of the agency's commitment to protecting the nation's agriculture, environment, and economy.
About the Agency: U.S. Customs and Border Protection
CBP is the premier border security agency, tasked with the complex responsibility of facilitating legitimate trade and travel while stopping those who wish to do us harm. Agricultural specialists are the first line of defense against the introduction of invasive species, harmful pests, and diseases that could devastate American agriculture. Working with the Office of Field Operations, you will join a team dedicated to integrity, service, and vigilance.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory CBP Agricultural Specialist, you will act as a technical authority and manager. Your day-to-day duties will include:
- Operational Leadership: Coordinating and evaluating inspection, intelligence analysis, and enforcement activities at Ports of Entry.
- Expert Consultation: Providing technical guidance to CBP officers, brokers, industry leaders, and other government agencies regarding the admissibility of agricultural cargo.
- Mentorship: Coaching and guiding junior Agricultural Specialists to ensure adherence to standard operating procedures.
- Compliance Oversight: Ensuring all imports of plants, meat, animal by-products, and other regulated articles meet strict federal guidelines.
Comparison: CBP vs. Private Sector Agricultural Roles
| Feature | Supervisory CBP Specialist | Private Sector Research/Consultant |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | National Security / Border Protection | Corporate Profit / Research Growth |
| Benefits | Full Federal (TSP, Pension, Health) | Variable by Employer |
| Impact | Protecting National Biosecurity | Product/Market Advancement |
| Authority | Federal Regulatory Enforcement | Advisory/Consultative |
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level position, you must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, agriculture, or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).
- Meet the one-year specialized experience requirement equivalent to a GS-12 grade level.
- Undergo a thorough background investigation and potential drug screening.
Salary and Benefits
The GS-13 grade level offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $108,455 to $140,994, commensurate with experience and step increases. Beyond salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package that includes comprehensive medical insurance, a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching, and a secure retirement pension. Employees also have access to tuition reimbursement, flexible work schedules, and health and wellness programs.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Submit your resume as a PDF and keep it strictly under two pages.
- Highlight Your Leadership: Use clear examples of how you have led teams or managed complex projects in previous roles.
- Detailed History: Include your full work history with dates, hours worked per week, and specific job titles.
- Review the Questionnaire: Read the competency assessment carefully; your answers determine your eligibility ranking.
The role of Supervisory CBP Agricultural Specialist is more than just a job; it is a service to the country. By joining the Nogales port team, you will play a vital role in preventing the next agricultural crisis before it enters our borders. If you meet the qualifications and are eager for a challenging, rewarding federal career, we encourage you to submit your application through the official portal before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the training requirement? A: Selectees must successfully complete mandatory training, including pre-academy work and residency training, to ensure they meet agency standards.
Q: Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee? A: Yes, this position is open to qualified applicants. However, all applicants must meet the residency and background investigation requirements.
Q: Is there a probationary period? A: Yes, newly appointed federal supervisors generally serve a one-year probationary period.
Why This Supervisory Cbp Agricultural Specialist Job Matters
Protect our borders and national agricultural security by leading a team of specialists in the vital port of Nogales, Arizona.
Supervisory Cbp Agricultural Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is seeking a highly skilled and motivated individual to join the Office of Field Operations as a Supervisory CBP Agricultural Specialist (SCBPAS). In this leadership role, you will be instrumental in overseeing the inspection and enforcement activities necessary to prevent the entry of harmful pests, diseases, and agricultural threats into the United States. Based in the strategic port of Nogales, Arizona, you will manage, mentor, and coordinate a team dedicated to securing our nation's trade and travel systems through agricultural compliance and rigorous inspection programs.
Requirements for Supervisory Cbp Agricultural Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must have physically resided in the U.S. or its protectorates for at least three of the last five years.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance and pass a drug test.
- Must be willing to wear an official agency uniform.
- Must possess a valid, non-restricted driver's license for government vehicle operation.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Cbp Agricultural Specialist
- Bachelor's degree or higher in biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, or related disciplines.
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent.
- Proven experience in mentoring or supervising agricultural inspection teams.
- Expertise in interpreting federal and state agricultural regulations and entry requirements.
- Ability to analyze complex data and report on operational productivity.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave accrual
- ✓Flexible work schedules and tuition reimbursement opportunities
- ✓Uniform allowance and fitness center access
- ✓Employee Assistance Programs and wellness initiatives
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Cbp Agricultural Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Cbp Agricultural Specialist Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the mandatory online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of July 27, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any document exceeding two pages will be excluded.
- Use a PDF format for your resume to maintain quality and avoid formatting errors.
- Clearly describe your supervisory and technical experience with specific dates and duties.
- Double-check that all supporting documents are in English.
- Ensure your online questionnaire responses align with your resume details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Supervisory CBP Agricultural Specialist?
You will lead, coordinate, and supervise inspection operations at Ports of Entry to ensure compliance with agricultural laws, preventing the entry of pests and diseases.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, the role may require travel to oversee multiple ports and locations, and you must be capable of operating a government-owned vehicle.
What is the residency requirement?
Non-CBP employees must have physically resided in the United States or its protectorates for at least three of the last five years.