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binocular devices to scan areas for illegal entrants. They also use an age-old technique called "sign
cutting." Smoothing the surface of specified sandy areas along points commonly used for attempted
entries creates "sand traps." When these traps are examined, they can indicate, by means of footprints,
the direction taken and the number of possible illegal entrants in the area. These tracks are then followed
until the aliens are apprehended. Another method used to enforce immigration laws is jeep-plane teams.
These teams coordinate aerial surveillance or search activities with ground operations over wide
expanses, such as agricultural areas, to pinpoint the location of possible lawbreakers.
In addition to their duties in the more remote areas, Border Patrol Agents investigate other possible
means of illegal entry into this country and use their foreign language skills where appropriate. They stop
vehicles at traffic checkpoints on roads and highways leading from the border and determine the
citizenship of occupants. They also make inquiries into the immigration status of farm and ranch
employees. Agents inspect and search trains, buses, trucks, aircraft, ships, and passenger and cargo
terminals to locate illegal aliens. During these searches, Agents sometimes uncover evidence of
smuggling activities. When illegal aliens are discovered, Border Patrol Agents are authorized to arrest
them without warrant, using firearms and physical force if necessary. These individuals are then held for
possible criminal prosecution or deportation. Border Patrol Agents make detailed written reports of cases
in which they are involved and may be called upon to give testimony during court proceedings.
Working Conditions
Newly hired Border Patrol Agents are assigned initially to duty stations in the southern border states of
California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Many of these work locations are situated in small, isolated
communities. Some of these areas may have poor schools and medical facilities. It is sometimes difficult
to transfer to a preferred area. If your heart is set on living in a specific location, you may be disappointed.
A Border Patrol Agent is required to work overtime and may work long hours. Sixty-hour weeks and
10- to 16-hour days are not uncommon. An Agent works irregular rotating shifts every two to four weeks.
These shifts are subject to change, often on short notice. Agents may earn from 10 percent to 25 percent
additional pay for the performance of extra duty time. Border Patrol Agents work under stressful and
dangerous conditions and are subject to the hazards of physical injury during the performance of their
duties. Fringe benefits that Border Patrol Agents receive include paid vacation (13 days per year for the
first three years, 20 days per year after three years of service up to 15 years, 26 days per year after 15 years
of service), holidays, and sick leave of 13 days per year that may be accumulated if not used. Agents are
also eligible for low-cost medical and life insurance, and they receive an annual $480 uniform allowance.
Note, however, that the new Border Patrol Agent must make the initial outlay of about $1,275 (tax
deductible) for uniforms for the first year, $300 before entering the training academy.
Border Patrol Agents who have at least 20 years of service are eligible for special retirement with a
good pension at age 50. This special provision also applies to other law enforcement officers and certain
supervisory personnel who have been promoted from law enforcement positions. Retirement is manda-
tory at age 55, allowing the Agent to pursue a new career or hobby while collecting retirement pay.
Promotion Opportunities
Initial appointment is at grade GS-5. Career progression generally follows at one-year intervals to
GS-7 and journeyman GS-9. Promotions and salary increases occur even during the three-year condi-
tional appointment period. The prospects for advancement are excellent. Border Patrol Agents may
compete for other assignments within the Border Patrol or for supervisory-level positions, or they may
apply for other positions within the Immigration and Naturalization Service.
