The Border Patrol Starting Wage
The United States Border Patrol is a uniformed law enforcement organization and a branch of the Department of Homeland Security. Border patrol agents work to detect, deter and arrest people who are trying to enter the United States illegally. This includes apprehending terrorists, drug and people traffickers. Border patrol agents patrol America's borders with Mexico and Canada, and the coastal areas. This is a very dangerous job, and requires a great deal of skill and training, with the pay reflecting this.
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Base Pay
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The base starting salary for border patrol agents is set at either GL-5, GL-7 or GL-9 levels. The term GL refers to the federal pay schedule used to pay government law enforcement officers. To qualify for pay at the GL-5 level, you must have at least one year of work experience in law enforcement that includes demonstrating an ability to make decisions, to remain calm in the face of stress or danger, developing good relationships with co-workers and the ability to learn new skills. You can substitute a four-year college degree for work experience. As of 2011, the GL-5 starting salary was $38,619.
GL-7 Salary
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To qualify to enter the Border Patrol at a GL-7 pay rate, you must be able to demonstrate at least one year of law enforcement experience in making arrests and using firearms. You must be able to deal with members of the public in a tactful manner, analyze information rapidly, make quick decisions and take action, apply the law and develope a network of informants. You can substitute one year of graduate education for the law enforcement experience. You can also qualify for a GL-7 starting salary if you have a bachelor's degree with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher or were a member of a national scholastic honor society. As of 2011, the GL-7 starting salary was $43,964.
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GL-9 Salary
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To qualify for a starting salary at the GL-9 level, you must have a graduate degree, such as a master's degree or an LL.B. You can substitute one year of specialized experience for the graduate degree. Specialized experience includes carrying out investigations, conducting raids or undercover operations, arresting and interviewing suspects, and preparing evidence for court. As of 2011, the GL-9 starting salary was $49,029.
Benefits
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Border patrol officers are employees of the federal government and receive a federal government benefits package. This includes a uniform allowance of $1,500, a 401(k) retirement plan, federal health insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, overtime pay of up to 25 percent, retirement on full benefits after 20 years' service, paid training and up to 26 days of paid leave each year, following 15 years of service.
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References
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