Become a Leader in Tactical Enforcement: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (BORSTAR)

The U.S. Border Patrol is currently seeking highly skilled, motivated professionals for the position of Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (BORSTAR) based in the Rio Grande Valley Sector, McAllen, Texas. This is a premier career opportunity for individuals with extensive tactical experience who are ready to transition into a leadership role that directly impacts the safety and security of the United States.

Job Responsibilities

As a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent, you will serve as a first-line supervisor for elite units. Your core duties include:

Command and Control: Lead, train, and mentor BPAs to achieve mission objectives under the BORSTAR Mission Essential Task Listing (METL).
Specialized Operations: Oversee high-risk responses, including counter-drug operations, surveillance, interdiction, and airborne or maritime maneuvers.
Intelligence Integration: Analyze intelligence data and manage technology to deter and resolve threats in real-time.
Strategic Leadership: Communicate organizational goals, work plans, and values to ensure your unit functions at peak performance.

Requirements

This position requires a high level of specialized knowledge and dedication. Key prerequisites include:

Proof of successful completion of the BORSTAR Selection and Training (STC) Course.
Fluency in Spanish (speaking and reading).
Eligibility for a Secret security clearance.
Ability to meet rigorous medical and physical fitness standards.

Requirement Type	Specification
Citizenship	U.S. Citizen
Education/Training	BORSTAR STC Course
Security Clearance	Secret
Medical	Required Exam

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive compensation package starting at $109,383 (GS-13, Step 1) and reaching up to $142,199 (GS-13, Step 10). In addition to base pay, agents may receive additional compensation for overtime work as governed by the Border Patrol Agent Pay Reform Act of 2014.

Benefits

Employees of the Department of Homeland Security enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Health, life, and long-term care insurance.
The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), which functions similarly to a private-sector 401(k).
Defined-benefit retirement plans tailored for law enforcement officers.
Generous leave policies, including personal days and federal holidays.
Career development programs and tuition reimbursement.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of success, ensure your resume is concise and targeted. Limit your document to two pages and specifically outline your supervisory experiences and specialized training. When completing your application on USAJOBS, verify that all dates and contact information are accurate to prevent delays.

The role of a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (BORSTAR) is challenging, rewarding, and essential to national security. If you possess the tactical training and leadership skills required to guide elite teams, we invite you to apply and contribute your talents to the U.S. Border Patrol.

Why This Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Borstar) Job Matters

Step into a leadership role where tactical expertise meets national security. The U.S. Border Patrol is seeking experienced professionals to lead elite BORSTAR units in McAllen, Texas, and shape the future of specialized border enforcement.

Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Borstar) Job Overview

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently recruiting for a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (BORSTAR) at the GS-13 grade level. This high-impact, leadership-focused role is based in the Rio Grande Valley Sector. As a supervisor, you will manage, train, and deploy tactical units for high-risk operations, including counter-terrorism, long-range reconnaissance, and emergency search and rescue. This is a critical national security position requiring specialized law enforcement experience and a commitment to the highest standards of integrity and service.

Requirements for Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Borstar)

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must have successfully completed the BORSTAR Selection and Training (STC) Course.
Must be proficient in reading and speaking the Spanish language.
Must meet medical and physical fitness standards for a rigorous law enforcement position.
Must possess a valid, non-restricted driver's license.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret (or higher) security clearance.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must pass a pre-employment polygraph examination and a comprehensive background investigation.
Must be willing to work rotating shifts, overtime, and handle regular travel.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Borstar)

Proven experience as a first-line supervisor in a law enforcement environment.
Expertise in BORSTAR specialties, including land navigation, emergency rescue, and airborne insertion.
Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain intelligence networks.
Prior experience in sector-level or national program leadership roles (e.g., BORTAC, Horse Patrol).
Proficiency in utilizing automated information systems for intelligence gathering and prosecution support.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) participation
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
✓Flexible Spending Accounts and Employee Assistance Programs
✓Generous personal leave and paid federal holidays
✓Uniform allowance and fitness center access
✓Tuition reimbursement and ongoing professional development

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Borstar) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Borstar) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Upload a resume (strictly limited to two pages).
Submit required documentation, including SF-50 if currently employed by the federal government.
Ensure all documentation is in English and accurately reflects your employment history.
Monitor email for instructions to complete the Border Patrol Agent Programs Test Battery.

💡 General Tips

Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; excess pages will result in disqualification.
Highlight specific leadership roles such as SBPA, FOS, or SOS in your resume.
Ensure your resume explicitly details your duties, hours per week, and dates of service.
Check for document legibility; poor quality uploads can impact your eligibility.
Review the USBP Resume Guidance provided in the job announcement for formatting best practices.
Complete the Border Patrol Agent Programs Test Battery promptly once requested via email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BORSTAR training course mandatory?

Yes, successful completion of the BORSTAR Selection and Training (STC) Course is a strictly required qualification for this position.

What is the maximum age for this position?

The standard maximum age for appointment is the day before your 37th birthday; however, there is a current, temporary authorization allowing for original placement up to age 40. Exceptions exist for veterans and those with prior federal civilian law enforcement service.

Will I have to undergo a polygraph?

Yes, this position requires a polygraph examination. Certain applicants may be eligible for a waiver or reciprocity if they have previously completed a federal polygraph.

What is the age limit for this position?

While the traditional limit is 37, there is a current temporary authorization allowing appointment up to age 40.

Is shift work required?

Yes, the position requires regular and recurring shift work, including rotating assignments.

Job from Customs And Border Protection

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the nation's primary organization responsible for securing our borders. Operating under the Department of Homeland Security, CBP protects the country by enforcing trade, immigration, and drug laws. The Border Patrol (USBP) specifically focuses on the detection and apprehension of individuals entering the U.S. illegally, while providing life-saving assistance in hazardous environments. Working at CBP means joining a team dedicated to the core values of Vigilance, Service to Country, and Integrity.