Become a Leader in Elite Operations: Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (BORSTAR)

The U.S. Border Patrol represents the front line of American security. For those with a background in high-stakes enforcement and search and rescue, the position of Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (BORSTAR) offers a unique opportunity to lead, innovate, and serve. Located in El Paso, Texas, this GS-13 role is designed for professionals ready to apply their tactical expertise to administrative and field-level leadership.

Job Responsibilities

As a second-line supervisor, you will direct specialized programs and manage high-risk incidents. Your primary responsibilities include:

Operational Oversight: Managing unit assignments and resolving complex, emergency situations.
Tactical Strategy: Adapting unit strength to meet changing environmental and operational constraints.
Personnel Development: Instructing and advising subordinates to resolve difficult tactical problems.
Mission Coordination: Ensuring that BORSTAR activities align with broader station and sector objectives.

Comparison of Requirements

Requirement	Status
Citizenship	Mandatory U.S. Citizen
Language	Proficient in Spanish (Speak/Read)
Training	BORSTAR STC Course Completed
Clearance	Secret Level Required

Requirements & Qualifications

To be considered for this GS-13 role, you must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level. You are expected to demonstrate expert judgment regarding firearms, law enforcement procedures, and informant management. Additionally, you must meet the mandatory prerequisite of having served in a primary or rigorous law enforcement position.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive compensation package, reflecting the high level of responsibility and the technical expertise required. The salary range is $109,383 to $142,199 per year, with additional potential for overtime compensation (up to 25% of base pay) under the Border Patrol Agent Pay Reform Act.

Benefits

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) 401(k)-style retirement savings.
CSRS/FERS retirement eligibility.
Paid federal holidays and personal leave.
Specialized training and tuition reimbursement opportunities.

Application Tips

Resume Precision: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. Highlight your specific leadership titles (e.g., SOS, FOS, SBPA).
Documentation: Ensure all SF-50 forms are included to verify your federal time-in-grade.
Clarity: Ensure all entries are in English and that documents are not password-protected.

Serving as a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent for the BORSTAR unit is a significant career milestone. If you possess the tactical training, the leadership capability, and the drive to protect the homeland, we encourage you to apply. Join the team that makes a direct impact on national security and public safety.

Why This Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Sos - Borstar) Job Matters

Lead as a Supervisory Border Patrol Agent with the elite BORSTAR unit—where advanced tactical expertise meets critical mission leadership in El Paso, Texas.

Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Sos - Borstar) Job Overview

The U.S. Border Patrol is seeking a dedicated leader to serve as a second-line Supervisory Border Patrol Agent within the National BORSTAR (Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue) Unit. Based in El Paso, Texas, this role involves providing high-level oversight for complex, specialized operations. You will be responsible for directing units, managing specialized programs, and navigating high-risk environments while ensuring the safety of personnel and the public. This role is essential to maintaining the integrity, security, and humanitarian mission of the Border Patrol in a high-stakes operational setting.

Requirements for Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Sos - Borstar)

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Must have successfully completed the BORSTAR Selection and Training (STC) Course.
Must be proficient in reading and speaking Spanish.
Possess a valid, non-restricted driver's license.
Must meet medical and physical fitness standards for the position.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret level security clearance.
Must pass a background investigation and polygraph examination.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must meet residency requirements (physically residing in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years).

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Sos - Borstar)

Proven experience in federal law enforcement equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
Deep knowledge of high-risk enforcement, tactical medicine, and search and rescue operations.
Extensive background in managing unit operational strength and personnel development.
Demonstrated leadership capabilities in complex, multi-agency environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
✓Comprehensive retirement program under CSRS or FERS.
✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave.
✓Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and professional development.
✓Fitness center access and wellness programs.
✓Overtime compensation up to 25% of base pay.
✓Relocation expenses authorized.

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

Application Steps for Supervisory Border Patrol Agent (Sos - Borstar) Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages following the specific USBP format.
Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
Gather supporting documents such as SF-50s and transcripts.
Submit your complete application package via the online portal by the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Focus your two-page resume on accomplishments rather than just duties.
Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your experience in specialized programs like BORSTAR.
Verify your SF-50 clearly shows time-in-grade requirements if you are a current federal employee.
Avoid using password-protected files for your documents.
Apply well before the deadline to ensure your materials are successfully processed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is relocation assistance available?

Yes, relocation expenses are authorized for this position, pending funding availability.

What is the physical requirement for this role?

Candidates must be medically and physically capable of performing strenuous search and rescue and law enforcement duties without endangering themselves or others.

Is this a polygraph-required position?

Yes, a polygraph examination is required unless you qualify for reciprocity or a specific waiver.

What is the residency requirement?

*A: You must have resided in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years.*

Will I be required to work shifts?

*A: Yes, this position requires regular, rotating shift work and overtime.*

Job from Customs And Border Protection

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the nation’s primary agency for securing America’s borders. With a mission grounded in vigilance, service, and integrity, CBP employees manage everything from trade and travel to drug interdiction and life-saving humanitarian rescues. Joining the BORSTAR team means working with the most highly trained tactical rescue specialists in the country.