Become a Watch Commander: A Career in Border Security
Are you a seasoned law enforcement professional looking to elevate your career to the highest level of national security? The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently seeking a highly skilled individual to fill the position of Supervisory CBP Officer (Watch Commander) at our port of entry in Buffalo, New York. This critical role is perfect for leaders who are passionate about protecting our borders, facilitating legitimate trade, and ensuring public safety.
Job Responsibilities
As a Watch Commander, you will manage operational activities across multiple environments. Your day-to-day will involve:
- Incident Management: Taking charge of all reportable incidents and emergent activities within the port.
- Operational Oversight: Directing, assigning, and evaluating work across multiple locations.
- Policy Implementation: Reviewing current procedures and recommending process improvements to enhance operational effectiveness.
- Regulatory Enforcement: Interpreting complex federal and state laws regarding the admissibility of cargo, vessels, aircraft, and individuals.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Successful completion of a background investigation and polygraph screening.
- Compliance with the Lautenberg Amendment regarding firearm use.
- Possession of a valid, non-restricted driver's license.
- Specialized experience in law enforcement or customs procedures equivalent to the GS-13 level.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $135,167 - $175,722 |
| Location | Buffalo, New York |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Training Required | Yes (101 days at Academy) |
| Hiring Path | Internal / Federal Transition |
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-14 level, offering a competitive starting salary of $135,167, scaling up to $175,722 depending on experience and performance, subject to locality pay tables.
Benefits
At DHS, we believe in supporting our employees with a world-class benefits package:
- Retirement: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Health: Access to top-tier health, dental, and vision plans.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid federal holidays, personal leave days, and flexible schedules.
- Growth: Tuition reimbursement and ongoing leadership training.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize leadership and management. Your resume must clearly show how you meet the GS-14 qualification requirements.
- Formatting: Submit your resume as a PDF and keep it strictly under two pages.
- Detail is Key: List your duties, dates, and hours worked per week for every position mentioned.
- Stay Proactive: Monitor your email for updates from the CBP HR team regarding your application status.
Serving as a Watch Commander in Buffalo is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety of your country. If you have the leadership skills and operational expertise required to maintain the security of our nation's busiest ports, we encourage you to apply today.
Why This Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe) Job Matters
Take command at the front line of national security. Join the Office of Field Operations as a Watch Commander in Buffalo, NY, and lead the mission to secure America's borders.
Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe) Job Overview
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as a Supervisory CBP Officer (Watch Commander) in Buffalo, New York. In this high-stakes leadership role, you will be responsible for overseeing complex operational activities at a major port of entry. Your work will directly impact national security, trade facilitation, and the enforcement of vital immigration and narcotics laws. This position offers a unique chance to shape border operations, lead a team of dedicated professionals, and contribute to the safety and integrity of the United States.
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 meet U.S. residency requirements (physically resided in the U.S. for at least 3 of the last 5 years)
- Possess a valid, non-restricted driver's license for Government Owned Vehicles
- Successful completion of a background investigation and potential polygraph exam
- Must pass the CBP Officer Promotional Assessment
- Must meet firearm qualifications as outlined by the Gun Control Act of 1968
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe)
- Experience directing or improving the processing of passengers, baggage, and cargo
- Background in supervising operational activities related to intelligence analysis or anti-terrorism
- Ability to plan, coordinate, and evaluate operational work across multiple environments
- Strong communication skills for resolving technical and operational inquiries
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with government match
- ✓Federal retirement pension plan
- ✓Flexible work schedules and paid federal holidays
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development
- ✓Uniform allowance and fitness programs
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Cbp Officer (Watch Commander - Poe) Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire
- Prepare a resume in English (maximum two pages)
- Submit your application, resume, and necessary supporting documents (e.g., SF-50) via the online portal
- Verify receipt of application before the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume on your specific leadership achievements and operational impact.
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; excess pages will disqualify you.
- Upload documents in PDF format to ensure formatting is preserved.
- Clearly outline your dates of service, hours worked per week, and grade level in your employment history.
- Set up automatic email notifications in your USAJOBS account to track the status of your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of this role?
As a Watch Commander, you manage operational activities at a port of entry, oversee staff, ensure policy compliance, and coordinate responses to emergent incidents.
Is there a residency requirement?
Yes, applicants must have physically resided in the United States for at least three of the last five years, with limited exceptions for federal service or study abroad.
Will I need to complete training?
Yes, this position requires 101 days of paid training at the CBP Field Operations Academy in Glynco, GA, followed by post-academy training at your duty station.
Is shift work required?
Yes, as a Watch Commander, you will be expected to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
What is the training duration?
Selectees must complete a 101-day training program at the CBP Field Operations Academy in Georgia, followed by several weeks of post-academy training on the job.
Job from Customs And Border Protection
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its component, the CBP, represent the front line of our nation’s defense. We are responsible for securing our borders, preventing terrorism, and enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws regarding immigration, narcotics, and international trade. Joining our team means joining an organization that values vigilance, service, and integrity above all else.