Become a Supervisory CBP Officer (Watch Commander) in Los Angeles

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently seeking a highly skilled law enforcement professional to serve as a Supervisory CBP Officer (Watch Commander) at the Los Angeles Field Office. This is a vital leadership position that directly impacts the safety and security of the United States. If you are a leader with experience in port operations and a commitment to protecting our borders, this role offers a challenging and rewarding career path.

Job Responsibilities

As a Watch Commander, you will manage operational activity at a Port of Entry. Key duties include:

Incident Oversight: Managing reportable incidents and emergent activities in real-time.
Operational Leadership: Directing subordinate supervisors and teams to ensure compliance with federal laws.
Strategic Planning: Reviewing and improving procedures to increase operational effectiveness.
Law Enforcement Coordination: Executing counter-terrorism initiatives and managing the apprehension of inadmissible individuals or contraband.

Requirements

Applicants must meet rigorous federal standards, including:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Background Check: Successful completion of a background investigation and potential polygraph test.
Assessments: A valid, passing score on the CBP Promotional Assessment.
Medical & Fitness: Ability to pass physical readiness and medical standards.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.

Comparison Table: Qualifications vs. Benefits

Feature	Requirement / Benefit
Salary Range	$150,693 - $195,907
Security Clearance	Secret
Location	Los Angeles, CA
Career Level	GS-14
Benefits	Health, Life, Retirement, TSP

Salary Overview

This position is classified at the GS-14 pay grade. Starting salary begins at $150,693 per annum, with the potential to reach $195,907 based on the step-increase schedule. This compensation reflects the high level of responsibility inherent in supervising national security programs.

Benefits

CBP employees receive an industry-leading federal benefits package, including:

Extensive health, vision, and dental insurance options.
Access to the Thrift Savings Plan, which functions like a 401(k).
Comprehensive retirement systems.
Paid leave, federal holidays, and potential wellness incentives.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of success:

Be Precise: Ensure your resume clearly details your supervisory experience and technical skills.
Documentation: Have your SF-50 forms ready if you are a current or former federal employee.
Follow Format Rules: Keep the resume to a maximum of two pages.

This role is an excellent opportunity for experienced professionals to make a tangible difference in national security. With a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to lead in a major U.S. port, this is a career-defining opportunity. Apply by November 6, 2026, to be considered.

Why This Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe) Job Matters

Take command of national security and lead critical border operations as a Supervisory CBP Officer in Los Angeles.

Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe) Job Overview

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is seeking a seasoned leader to join the Office of Field Operations in Los Angeles, CA, as a Supervisory CBP Officer (Watch Commander). This high-impact role oversees port-of-entry activities, manages significant security incidents, and directs operational teams to ensure the integrity of our borders. If you possess expert law enforcement knowledge and the ability to lead complex, fast-paced missions, this role offers an opportunity to shape the future of homeland security.

Requirements for Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe)

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service.
Must pass a thorough background investigation and potentially a polygraph examination.
Must hold a valid, non-restricted driver's license and possess the ability to operate government-owned vehicles.
Must meet the firearm requirements as outlined in the Gun Control Act of 1968.
Must have successfully passed the CBP Officer Promotional Assessment with a valid score.
Must meet residency requirements: physically resided in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years.
Must pass a pre-employment medical screening and physical fitness test.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe)

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level.
Demonstrated experience directing complex processing for passengers, cargo, and carriers.
Proven track record in supervising law enforcement, intelligence analysis, or anti-terrorism programs.
Experience in resolving major operational problems and implementing process improvements.
Expertise in evaluating employee performance and developing staff within a law enforcement context.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave
✓Flexible work schedules and wellness programs
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
✓Uniform allowance
✓Life and long-term care insurance

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe) Job

Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
Review all documentation requirements, including the two-page resume limit.
Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
Upload your resume, required SF-50s, and any relevant supporting documents.
Submit your application before the closing date of November 6, 2026.
Monitor your email for status updates and instructions regarding the background investigation process.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this length will not be considered.
Provide detailed dates, hours worked per week, and specific duties for every role in your work history.
Current federal employees must include their most recent SF-50 demonstrating competitive status.
Save your responses to the online questionnaire carefully as they are vital to your ranking.
Verify that all uploaded files are legible and not password protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the Watch Commander?

The Watch Commander manages all reportable incidents and emergent activities within a Port of Entry, directing operational teams to ensure national security and trade compliance.

Is a polygraph test mandatory?

Yes, this is a polygraph-required position unless you are already a current CBP law enforcement employee or meet specific waiver criteria.

Can I submit my resume in a PDF format?

Yes, PDF is the recommended format for document quality; however, ensure it is not a 'Portfolio' PDF or password-protected.

Job from Customs And Border Protection

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and CBP are dedicated to securing our nation’s borders while facilitating legitimate trade and travel. CBP officers work in a high-stakes environment, serving as the frontline of defense against terrorism, illegal trafficking, and prohibited imports. Joining this team means upholding the values of vigilance, service to country, and integrity.