Become a Supervisory Paralegal Specialist with U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Are you a legal professional with a passion for public service and a desire to contribute to the nation's security? U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently seeking a highly qualified Supervisory Paralegal Specialist to join the Office of Field Operations in Memphis, Tennessee. This position offers a unique blend of legal oversight, administrative leadership, and impactful work that directly supports the mission of securing our borders.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Paralegal Specialist, you will oversee the Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures (FPF) program. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Operations Management: Supervising the day-to-day operations of an FPF office service area.
- Case Adjudication: Reviewing, processing, and finalizing claims involving liquidated damages, penalties, and seizures.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring all case files contain the necessary documentation and meet legal sufficiency standards.
- Evidence Evaluation: Analyzing complex facts and circumstances to provide recommendations based on federal law and mitigation guidelines.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet several baseline requirements:
- Citizenship: You must be a United States citizen.
- Residency: Must have physically resided in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at a level equivalent to the GS-12 grade.
- Training: Ability to complete mandatory, in-residence training programs at designated locations.
Comparison of Potential Benefits
| Benefit Type | Detail | Impact on Employee |
|---|---|---|
| Financial | Competitive GS-13 Pay | Solid income growth |
| Health | Full Federal Package | Comprehensive coverage |
| Retirement | FERS & Thrift Savings Plan | Long-term security |
| Growth | Tuition & Leadership Training | Professional advancement |
Salary Overview
The position is classified at the GS-13 level, with a salary range between $106,437 and $138,370 per year. Locality pay may apply depending on the specific geographic area, and salary advancement is tied to federal pay scales.
Application Tips
- Drafting Your Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages. The system will reject applications with resumes longer than two pages.
- Highlighting Specialized Experience: Ensure your resume uses specific terminology related to civil penalties, seizures, or FPF programs to clearly demonstrate your expertise.
- The Questionnaire: Answer the essay questions honestly and thoroughly. While they are not scored, they are a vital tool for the hiring manager to understand your dedication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is relocation assistance provided? A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Q: Can I apply after the deadline? A: No, applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date of November 10, 2026.
Q: How long are the training requirements? A: Training typically involves several weeks of in-residence programs. Failure to successfully complete this training may result in reassignment or separation.
Serving as a Supervisory Paralegal Specialist for CBP is an excellent opportunity for those looking to advance their legal career in a federal law enforcement environment. If you meet the qualifications and are prepared to contribute to the safety and prosperity of the United States, we encourage you to submit your application through the official portal today.
Why This Supervisory Paralegal Specialist Job Matters
Take charge of critical enforcement and legal operations with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Leverage your paralegal expertise to secure our nation's borders and manage high-stakes civil liability cases in Memphis.
Supervisory Paralegal Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations, is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Paralegal Specialist for the Area Port of Memphis, Tennessee. This vital role oversees the administration of the Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures (FPF) program. You will lead a team in processing cases related to seizures, penalties, and liquidated damages, ensuring legal compliance and operational excellence while supporting the agency's overarching mission of national security and trade facilitation.
Requirements for Supervisory Paralegal Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must meet residency requirements: physically resided in the U.S. or its territories for at least three of the last five years.
- Must pass a thorough federal background investigation.
- Must comply with the DHS Drug-Free Workplace policy.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-12).
- Must be able to successfully complete mandatory, in-residence training requirements (e.g., FPF Basic Training in Charleston, SC).
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Paralegal Specialist
- Proven experience in reviewing and adjudicating seizures, penalties, and prior disclosures.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and provide guidance to law enforcement personnel regarding case processing.
- Strong proficiency in applying mitigation guidelines, policies, and complex federal laws.
- Experience in making final determinations on the validity of evidence and legal sufficiency of case files.
- Excellent leadership skills, including the ability to manage daily operations of a complex office service area.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave accrual.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and wellness programs.
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development training opportunities.
- ✓Transportation subsidies and potential uniform allowances.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Paralegal Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Paralegal Specialist Job
- Prepare a resume (maximum 2 pages) detailing relevant work history, hours worked, and salary information.
- Complete the online application questionnaire and upload required supporting documents (e.g., SF-50s, DD-214).
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal before the deadline of November 10, 2026.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if notified via email.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions duties equivalent to the GS-12 level to qualify for the GS-13 position.
- Convert your resume to PDF format to preserve formatting and document quality.
- Review the questionnaire thoroughly; it includes four essay questions that allow you to highlight your commitment to public service.
- Set aside at least three hours to complete the USA Hire assessment in one sitting if possible, though it can be resumed.
- Ensure your contact information is current, as all notifications regarding your application status will be sent via email.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Supervisory Paralegal Specialist do at CBP?
This role manages the Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures office, adjudicating civil liability cases arising from border seizures and liquidated damages while ensuring legal sufficiency and case file accuracy.
Is a background check required for this position?
Yes, as a federal law enforcement agency, CBP requires all applicants to undergo a comprehensive background investigation regarding criminal history and drug use.
What happens if I need a reasonable accommodation for the assessment?
You may request an accommodation within the online application portal, and requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis prior to beginning the assessments.
Job from Customs And Border Protection
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the primary federal law enforcement agency responsible for the protection of the American border. From screening travelers and goods to seizing prohibited items, the CBP plays a vital role in national security, trade, and immigration enforcement. Joining this agency means becoming part of a professional workforce dedicated to the core values of vigilance, service to country, and integrity.