Transitioning Out of the U.S. Border Patrol
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Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal or financial advice. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the information contained on this page. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) policies and procedures may change, and individuals should consult with CBP or a qualified expert for guidance specific to their situation before making any decisions based on this information. The reader is solely responsible for any actions or decisions they make based on the information provided here. |
U.S. Border Patrol Assistant Chief Badge with "Retired" Plate.
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Last updated - July 27, 2023
Introduction
Welcome to HonorFirst.com, your ultimate resource for everything related to the U.S. Border Patrol. We understand that transitioning out of the U.S. Border Patrol is a significant step in an agent's career. Whether you are considering a career change, retirement, or seeking new opportunities, it is essential to have the right information and resources at your disposal. HonorFirst.com, which has been serving as a trusted guide since the mid-1990s, is here to support you through this critical phase. This page is specifically designed to provide Border Patrol Agents with comprehensive information and resources needed for a smooth and successful transition.
You may find it helpful to join the Agent's Forum for additional information.
You may find it helpful to join the Agent's Forum for additional information.
Understanding Your Retirement Eligibility
Before making any decisions about retirement, it's essential to understand your retirement eligibility and the type of retirement you qualify for. This will affect when you can retire, when you can start receiving benefits, and what benefits are available to you.
For a comprehensive guide on retirement, you can refer to the OPM's Quick Guide to Retirement. This guide provides detailed information about the retirement process, including steps to take before retiring, retirement forms, and retirement benefits
For a comprehensive guide on retirement, you can refer to the OPM's Quick Guide to Retirement. This guide provides detailed information about the retirement process, including steps to take before retiring, retirement forms, and retirement benefits
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Special Immediate Retirement Eligibility for Border Patrol Agents
As a Border Patrol Agent, you fall under the category of Law Enforcement Officers (LEOs), which has special retirement provisions under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). The eligibility criteria for immediate retirement for Border Patrol Agents are different from regular federal employees. Here are the requirements for immediate retirement for Border Patrol Agents under FERS:
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U.S. Border Patrol Certificate of Retirement
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Additionally, if you retire at the minimum age and service requirements, you are entitled to a special annuity computation. The annuity is computed at 1.7% of your high-3 average salary for each of the first 20 years of service and 1% of your high-3 average salary for each year of service over 20.
It's also important to note that if you retire under these special provisions, you will receive a special retirement supplement, which is essentially a bridge payment between when you retire and when you are eligible for Social Security.
Please consult with CBP's Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch (RABAS) for personalized information on your retirement eligibility and to ensure that you meet the specific requirements for immediate retirement as a Border Patrol Agent
It's also important to note that if you retire under these special provisions, you will receive a special retirement supplement, which is essentially a bridge payment between when you retire and when you are eligible for Social Security.
Please consult with CBP's Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch (RABAS) for personalized information on your retirement eligibility and to ensure that you meet the specific requirements for immediate retirement as a Border Patrol Agent
Standard Immediate Retirement Eligibility
You are eligible for immediate retirement if you meet certain age and service requirements. For example, under FERS, you may be eligible for immediate retirement if:
Deferred Retirement
If you leave federal service before you meet the age and service requirements for an immediate retirement benefit, you may be eligible for deferred retirement. This means you can receive retirement benefits at a later date.
Understanding Your Retirement System with FERSGUIDE
The FERSGUIDE is a valuable resource authored by Dan Jamison, who is a CPA with 33 years of experience and a retired FBI Special Agent Accountant. The guide is designed to assist federal employees, including Special Category Employees (SCEs) such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, and air traffic controllers, in understanding the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
There are two versions of the FERSGUIDE: one for Special Category Employees and another for Regular FERS employees. The guide is updated annually and is available in paperback and Kindle formats on Amazon. The 2023 Special Category Employee FERSGUIDE and the 2023 Regular Employee FERSGUIDE are available as paperbacks for $15.95 each, and Kindle versions are available for $9.95 each.
You can find the FERSGUIDE on Amazon or visit the official FERSGUIDE website for more information.
Consulting CBP's Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch (RABAS)
For personalized information on your retirement eligibility, consult with CBP’s Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch. They can help you understand the specific requirements and options based on your service history.
You are eligible for immediate retirement if you meet certain age and service requirements. For example, under FERS, you may be eligible for immediate retirement if:
- You are at least age 62 and have at least 5 years of service, or
- You are at least age 60 and have at least 20 years of service, or
- You have reached your Minimum Retirement Age (MRA) and have at least 30 years of service.
Deferred Retirement
If you leave federal service before you meet the age and service requirements for an immediate retirement benefit, you may be eligible for deferred retirement. This means you can receive retirement benefits at a later date.
Understanding Your Retirement System with FERSGUIDE
The FERSGUIDE is a valuable resource authored by Dan Jamison, who is a CPA with 33 years of experience and a retired FBI Special Agent Accountant. The guide is designed to assist federal employees, including Special Category Employees (SCEs) such as law enforcement officers, firefighters, and air traffic controllers, in understanding the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
There are two versions of the FERSGUIDE: one for Special Category Employees and another for Regular FERS employees. The guide is updated annually and is available in paperback and Kindle formats on Amazon. The 2023 Special Category Employee FERSGUIDE and the 2023 Regular Employee FERSGUIDE are available as paperbacks for $15.95 each, and Kindle versions are available for $9.95 each.
You can find the FERSGUIDE on Amazon or visit the official FERSGUIDE website for more information.
Consulting CBP's Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch (RABAS)
For personalized information on your retirement eligibility, consult with CBP’s Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch. They can help you understand the specific requirements and options based on your service history.
Preparing for Transition
Start Early
Begin preparing for retirement or career transition at least a year in advance. This will give you ample time to ensure that all necessary documents and plans are in place.
Grasping the Key Milestones
The journey to retirement is a process with important time-bound steps. Here are some crucial points to bear in mind:
Attend a Pre-Retirement Counseling Seminar
If CBP offers a pre-retirement counseling seminar, make sure to attend. These seminars can provide valuable information and help you understand what to expect during the transition.
Consult Official CBP Resources
For the most current and official information on retirement planning, it's highly recommended to consult the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's official Retirement Planning page. This page contains a wealth of resources and information directly from CBP, which can be invaluable in helping you understand and navigate the retirement process.
Consult with CBP's Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch (RABAS)
Make an appointment with CBP’s Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch to review your Official Personnel Folder (OPF). Ensure it includes all your federal employment records, pay adjustments, health benefits, life insurance coverage, and beneficiary designations. If anything is missing or inaccurate, address it immediately.
Verify Eligibility Requirements
Ensure that you meet the age and service requirements for retirement. Also, check if you meet the requirements to carry your health benefits and/or life insurance coverage into retirement.
Request an Estimate of Your Retirement Annuity
Ask RABAS for an estimate of your retirement annuity. If you are a FERS employee, you’ll also need an estimate of your Special Retirement Supplement.
Update Beneficiary Forms
Log into your Electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) at eOPF OPM to ensure your beneficiary forms are up-to-date. If you wish to update your beneficiary forms, mail the original documents to RABAS. Ensure that the forms are clear of errors and have original signatures. Forms must be signed by the employee and include two witnesses who are not the beneficiaries.
Plan for Your Final Time Card and Payroll Processing
Inform your Time and Attendance person of your retirement date to ensure correct coding of your final time card and payroll processing.
Understand the Impact of Military Service (Military Buyback Program)
If you have prior military service, understand how this affects your annuity and what deposits may be required.
The Military Buyback Program allows federal employees to purchase their military service time to increase their retirement annuity. This program is particularly beneficial for those who have served in the military and are now working in a federal civilian position.
The process involves paying a deposit into the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) or the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), which is then used to calculate your retirement benefits. The deposit amount is typically a percentage of your military base pay, plus interest. For FERS employees, the deposit equals 3% of military base pay, while for CSRS employees, it's 7%.
One of the key benefits of participating in the Military Buyback Program is the potential increase in your retirement annuity. For instance, if you served for 4 years in the military and bought back that time, instead of receiving an annuity calculated at 5% of your average high three salary after working 5 years, it would increase to 9% of your high three average salary.
As an example, let's say a federal employee served 4 years in the military and then worked in a federal civilian position for 30 years. If they didn't buy back their military time, they would retire with 30 years of service. However, if they chose to buy back their military time, they would retire with 34 years of service. This additional time could significantly increase their retirement annuity.
It's important to note that buying back military time doesn't affect other military benefits such as medical benefits, base access, commissary, or VA benefits, including any disability payments from the VA. It only affects (active duty) retired military pay; you cannot receive 2 separate retirements (military and civilian) for the exact same period of service.
However, the decision to buy back military time should be made after careful consideration and consultation with a financial advisor or retirement counselor, as it may not be beneficial for everyone.
Key Forms and Instructions for Military Buyback
If you're considering buying back your military time, you'll need to complete certain forms:
Address Outstanding Debts
If you owe any money to CBP, arrange a repayment schedule to avoid having your annuity offset to recover the debt.
Understand Your Health and Insurance Benefits
If you are enrolled in any health or insurance benefits, understand how these will be affected by your retirement. For example, if you are enrolled in SAMBA Employee Benevolent Fund, contact SAMBA to inform them about your retirement date. SAMBA information can be found at SAMBA Plans.
Understand Your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
If you have a TSP account, understand how your retirement affects your TSP and what options are available for withdrawal. TSP information can be found at TSP.gov.
Understand Social Security Benefits
If you are eligible for Social Security Benefits, apply directly with the Social Security Administration (SSA) at SSA.gov. The earliest you can apply for SSA retirement benefits is three months prior to reaching age 62.
Consult the Office of Chief Counsel (OCC) for an Ethics Letter
Before retirement (depending on your pay grade and assignments), it's advisable to reach out to the OCC to obtain an Ethics Letter. This letter provides important guidance on what you can and can't do post-retirement, including any restrictions that may apply based on your position. The Ethics Letter can help clarify any limitations on future employment, particularly if you're considering work in a related field or with a federal contractor. The duration of these restrictions can vary, so it's crucial to understand these details before making any career decisions post-retirement.
Be Prepared for Processing Delays
The retirement process involves multiple agencies and can be subject to delays. It's important to be aware that the National Finance Center (NFC) and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) may experience delays in processing retirement packages. Under normal circumstances, it takes approximately 2 months after retirement for retirees to receive initial interim payments, and up to 6 months to receive full annuity payments. However, due to various factors including system processing changes and staffing challenges,it may take longer. It's advisable to have a reserve fund to make up the difference between the interim and full retirement payments during this period. Note that these delays do not impact the release of annual lump sum leave payments or transactions associated with Thrift Savings Plan accounts.
Stay Informed and Seek Assistance if Needed
Stay informed about the status of your retirement package. If you have any questions or need assistance with retirement planning, contact Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services (RABAS) at 202-325-6180/1-800-897-6180 or RABAServices@cbp.dhs.gov. You can also visit the RABAS website for more information.
Begin preparing for retirement or career transition at least a year in advance. This will give you ample time to ensure that all necessary documents and plans are in place.
Grasping the Key Milestones
The journey to retirement is a process with important time-bound steps. Here are some crucial points to bear in mind:
- The process of retirement planning should commence as early as possible.
- The busiest period for retirements is from October to December.
- You should submit your retirement applications online via the Retirement and Benefits App at CBP's Retirement and Benefits Home Page. You can do this up to 120 days before your planned retirement date, but it should be no later than 90 days prior.
- Applications submitted more than 120 days before the planned retirement date will not be accepted.
- It's not advisable to delay your retirement application submission to the last moment in an attempt to "jump the queue". This is a misuse of the process and should be avoided, except in exceptional and unavoidable circumstances.
Attend a Pre-Retirement Counseling Seminar
If CBP offers a pre-retirement counseling seminar, make sure to attend. These seminars can provide valuable information and help you understand what to expect during the transition.
Consult Official CBP Resources
For the most current and official information on retirement planning, it's highly recommended to consult the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's official Retirement Planning page. This page contains a wealth of resources and information directly from CBP, which can be invaluable in helping you understand and navigate the retirement process.
Consult with CBP's Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch (RABAS)
Make an appointment with CBP’s Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services Branch to review your Official Personnel Folder (OPF). Ensure it includes all your federal employment records, pay adjustments, health benefits, life insurance coverage, and beneficiary designations. If anything is missing or inaccurate, address it immediately.
Verify Eligibility Requirements
Ensure that you meet the age and service requirements for retirement. Also, check if you meet the requirements to carry your health benefits and/or life insurance coverage into retirement.
Request an Estimate of Your Retirement Annuity
Ask RABAS for an estimate of your retirement annuity. If you are a FERS employee, you’ll also need an estimate of your Special Retirement Supplement.
Update Beneficiary Forms
Log into your Electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) at eOPF OPM to ensure your beneficiary forms are up-to-date. If you wish to update your beneficiary forms, mail the original documents to RABAS. Ensure that the forms are clear of errors and have original signatures. Forms must be signed by the employee and include two witnesses who are not the beneficiaries.
Plan for Your Final Time Card and Payroll Processing
Inform your Time and Attendance person of your retirement date to ensure correct coding of your final time card and payroll processing.
Understand the Impact of Military Service (Military Buyback Program)
If you have prior military service, understand how this affects your annuity and what deposits may be required.
The Military Buyback Program allows federal employees to purchase their military service time to increase their retirement annuity. This program is particularly beneficial for those who have served in the military and are now working in a federal civilian position.
The process involves paying a deposit into the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) or the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), which is then used to calculate your retirement benefits. The deposit amount is typically a percentage of your military base pay, plus interest. For FERS employees, the deposit equals 3% of military base pay, while for CSRS employees, it's 7%.
One of the key benefits of participating in the Military Buyback Program is the potential increase in your retirement annuity. For instance, if you served for 4 years in the military and bought back that time, instead of receiving an annuity calculated at 5% of your average high three salary after working 5 years, it would increase to 9% of your high three average salary.
As an example, let's say a federal employee served 4 years in the military and then worked in a federal civilian position for 30 years. If they didn't buy back their military time, they would retire with 30 years of service. However, if they chose to buy back their military time, they would retire with 34 years of service. This additional time could significantly increase their retirement annuity.
It's important to note that buying back military time doesn't affect other military benefits such as medical benefits, base access, commissary, or VA benefits, including any disability payments from the VA. It only affects (active duty) retired military pay; you cannot receive 2 separate retirements (military and civilian) for the exact same period of service.
However, the decision to buy back military time should be made after careful consideration and consultation with a financial advisor or retirement counselor, as it may not be beneficial for everyone.
Key Forms and Instructions for Military Buyback
If you're considering buying back your military time, you'll need to complete certain forms:
- Proof of Service (DD-214): This form provides evidence of your military service. You can request your DD-214 through milConnect at https://milconnect.dmdc.osd.mil/milconnect/. For additional information, visit https://www.va.gov/records/get-military-service-records/.
- Military Buyback Receipt: If you've already bought back your military time, you'll need to submit your buyback receipt as part of your retirement application and make sure that it is in your eOPF.
- Application for Immediate Retirement: Depending on whether you're under the CSRS or FERS retirement system, you'll need to submit either CSRS Form SF-2801 and W4 Tax Withholding Form (for CSRS) or FERS Form SF-3107 and W4 Tax Withholding Form (for FERS).
Address Outstanding Debts
If you owe any money to CBP, arrange a repayment schedule to avoid having your annuity offset to recover the debt.
Understand Your Health and Insurance Benefits
If you are enrolled in any health or insurance benefits, understand how these will be affected by your retirement. For example, if you are enrolled in SAMBA Employee Benevolent Fund, contact SAMBA to inform them about your retirement date. SAMBA information can be found at SAMBA Plans.
Understand Your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
If you have a TSP account, understand how your retirement affects your TSP and what options are available for withdrawal. TSP information can be found at TSP.gov.
Understand Social Security Benefits
If you are eligible for Social Security Benefits, apply directly with the Social Security Administration (SSA) at SSA.gov. The earliest you can apply for SSA retirement benefits is three months prior to reaching age 62.
Consult the Office of Chief Counsel (OCC) for an Ethics Letter
Before retirement (depending on your pay grade and assignments), it's advisable to reach out to the OCC to obtain an Ethics Letter. This letter provides important guidance on what you can and can't do post-retirement, including any restrictions that may apply based on your position. The Ethics Letter can help clarify any limitations on future employment, particularly if you're considering work in a related field or with a federal contractor. The duration of these restrictions can vary, so it's crucial to understand these details before making any career decisions post-retirement.
Be Prepared for Processing Delays
The retirement process involves multiple agencies and can be subject to delays. It's important to be aware that the National Finance Center (NFC) and the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) may experience delays in processing retirement packages. Under normal circumstances, it takes approximately 2 months after retirement for retirees to receive initial interim payments, and up to 6 months to receive full annuity payments. However, due to various factors including system processing changes and staffing challenges,it may take longer. It's advisable to have a reserve fund to make up the difference between the interim and full retirement payments during this period. Note that these delays do not impact the release of annual lump sum leave payments or transactions associated with Thrift Savings Plan accounts.
Stay Informed and Seek Assistance if Needed
Stay informed about the status of your retirement package. If you have any questions or need assistance with retirement planning, contact Retirement and Benefits Advisory Services (RABAS) at 202-325-6180/1-800-897-6180 or RABAServices@cbp.dhs.gov. You can also visit the RABAS website for more information.
Transitioning to a Career with a Federal Contractor
If you are considering a career with a company that fulfills contracts with the federal government, it's important to understand that transitioning to the private sector may require different skills and preparation than working in federal service. Here are some steps to help you make a successful transition:
Recognize Your Value
As a transitioning Border Patrol Agent, it's important to recognize that you are the commodity. Your experience, skills, and knowledge are highly sought after by federal contractors. Your background in law enforcement and border security can be invaluable to companies working on government contracts.
Professionalize Your Resume
The private sector often has different expectations for resumes than the federal government. Consider hiring a professional resume writing service that specializes in federal contractor resumes. They can help tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experience that federal contractors are looking for.
Recommended Services:
Build a Strong LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking and job searching in the private sector. Consider hiring a professional to help you build a strong LinkedIn profile. Make sure your profile is complete, professional, and highlights your skills and experience relevant to federal contracting.
LinkedIn Tips: Building a Great LinkedIn Profile
Understand Private Sector Interviews
Interviewing for a position with a federal contractor may be different from interviews within the federal government. Research common interview questions and practice your responses. Focus on how your experience as a Border Patrol Agent can add value to the company and its federal contracts.
Learn About Salary Negotiations
Salary negotiations are common in the private sector. Research salary ranges for the positions you are interested in and be prepared to negotiate your salary and benefits package. For example, a retired GS-14 Border Patrol Agent should expect a salary of around $140,000, give or take $20,000, when accepting a federal contracting position in the D.C. area. Consider consulting with a career coach or taking a negotiation workshop to improve your negotiation skills.
Network with Professionals in Federal Contracting
Networking is key to finding opportunities in federal contracting. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with professionals in federal contracting on LinkedIn.
Understand Security Clearances
If you have a security clearance from your time as a Border Patrol Agent, this can be a valuable asset when applying for positions with federal contractors. Make sure to include this information on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Background Checks and Security Clearances
If you are considering a position that requires a security clearance, it’s important to understand the background investigation process. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has a detailed Background Investigation Process FAQ that can provide you with insights into what to expect. Additionally, CBP uses the Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (e-QIP) system for background investigations. Learn more about e-QIP and how it is used to gather information for background investigations.
If you are considering other federal employment, it’s also important to be aware of factors that could disqualify someone from federal employment. Review this comprehensive list of Federal Employment Background Check Disqualifiers to ensure you are prepared.
Seek Legal Advice
Before accepting a position with a federal contractor, it’s advisable to seek legal counsel to understand any legal obligations or restrictions that may apply to former federal employees working on government contracts.
Recognize Your Value
As a transitioning Border Patrol Agent, it's important to recognize that you are the commodity. Your experience, skills, and knowledge are highly sought after by federal contractors. Your background in law enforcement and border security can be invaluable to companies working on government contracts.
Professionalize Your Resume
The private sector often has different expectations for resumes than the federal government. Consider hiring a professional resume writing service that specializes in federal contractor resumes. They can help tailor your resume to highlight the skills and experience that federal contractors are looking for.
Recommended Services:
- CareerProPlus: CareerProPlus is a career management service with over 30 years of experience. They specialize in resume writing for federal jobs, military transitions, and the private sector. Their services include federal and civilian resume writing, LinkedIn profile development, career coaching, and interview preparation. They also offer specialized services for Senior Executive Service (SES) resumes and ECQs (Executive Core Qualifications).
- Your Next Jump: Your Next Jump is a career services company that offers personalized support for professionals making career transitions. Their services include resume writing, LinkedIn profile optimization, career coaching, interview preparation, and job search strategy. They also offer specialized federal resume writing services. Your Next Jump is particularly beneficial for transitioning Border Patrol Agents looking to enter the private sector or federal contracting.
Build a Strong LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking and job searching in the private sector. Consider hiring a professional to help you build a strong LinkedIn profile. Make sure your profile is complete, professional, and highlights your skills and experience relevant to federal contracting.
LinkedIn Tips: Building a Great LinkedIn Profile
- Optimize Your Profile: Your LinkedIn profile is your online resume. Make sure it's complete and professional. Include a clear, professional photo; a compelling headline; a well-written summary; and details about your experiences, skills, and education. Use keywords relevant to the jobs you're interested in to make your profile more discoverable.
- Highlight Your Skills and Experience: Make sure your profile highlights your skills and experience relevant to federal contracting. This will help you attract the attention of recruiters and hiring managers in this field.
- Grow Your Network: Connect with professionals in your desired industry. This can include former colleagues, friends, and even people you haven't met yet. You can also follow companies you're interested in to stay updated on their news and job postings.
- Engage with Your Network: Regularly engage with your network by liking, commenting on, and sharing posts. This can increase your visibility on the platform and keep you top of mind for your connections.
- Share Relevant Content: Share posts and articles related to your industry to establish yourself as a thought leader. This can attract the attention of recruiters and hiring managers.
- Use the Job Search Feature: LinkedIn has a robust job search feature. You can search for jobs by title, keyword, or company, and you can filter results by location, industry, and job function. You can also set job alerts to be notified when new jobs that match your criteria are posted.
- Leverage the "Open to Work" Feature: LinkedIn allows you to indicate that you're open to new opportunities. This can make you more visible to recruiters and hiring managers.
- Reach Out to Recruiters and Talent Acquisitioners: You can use LinkedIn to find and connect with recruiters and Talent Acquisitioners in your desired industry. Once connected, you can send them a polite and professional message expressing your interest in any relevant job opportunities. Be sure to personalize your message and explain why you're interested in their company.
- Ask for Recommendations and Endorsements: Ask colleagues and supervisors to write recommendations for you or endorse your skills on LinkedIn. This can add credibility to your profile and make you more attractive to recruiters and hiring managers.
- Stay Active: Regular activity on LinkedIn can help keep your profile visible to your network, including recruiters and hiring managers. Try to set aside a little time each day to check LinkedIn, engage with posts, and respond to any messages or connection requests.
Understand Private Sector Interviews
Interviewing for a position with a federal contractor may be different from interviews within the federal government. Research common interview questions and practice your responses. Focus on how your experience as a Border Patrol Agent can add value to the company and its federal contracts.
- Interview Tips: Glassdoor Interview Guide
Learn About Salary Negotiations
Salary negotiations are common in the private sector. Research salary ranges for the positions you are interested in and be prepared to negotiate your salary and benefits package. For example, a retired GS-14 Border Patrol Agent should expect a salary of around $140,000, give or take $20,000, when accepting a federal contracting position in the D.C. area. Consider consulting with a career coach or taking a negotiation workshop to improve your negotiation skills.
- Negotiation Tips: Salary Negotiation Guide
Network with Professionals in Federal Contracting
Networking is key to finding opportunities in federal contracting. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with professionals in federal contracting on LinkedIn.
- Networking Tips: Networking for Federal Contracting
Understand Security Clearances
If you have a security clearance from your time as a Border Patrol Agent, this can be a valuable asset when applying for positions with federal contractors. Make sure to include this information on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
- Security Clearance Information: ClearanceJobs
Background Checks and Security Clearances
If you are considering a position that requires a security clearance, it’s important to understand the background investigation process. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has a detailed Background Investigation Process FAQ that can provide you with insights into what to expect. Additionally, CBP uses the Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (e-QIP) system for background investigations. Learn more about e-QIP and how it is used to gather information for background investigations.
If you are considering other federal employment, it’s also important to be aware of factors that could disqualify someone from federal employment. Review this comprehensive list of Federal Employment Background Check Disqualifiers to ensure you are prepared.
Seek Legal Advice
Before accepting a position with a federal contractor, it’s advisable to seek legal counsel to understand any legal obligations or restrictions that may apply to former federal employees working on government contracts.
- Legal Advice: American Bar Association Lawyer Referral
Finding Contracting Job Opportunities
One of the most effective ways to find job opportunities with federal contractors is to visit the career pages of each contracting company's website. Many federal contractors post their job openings directly on their own websites. By visiting these pages, you can search for positions that match your skills and experience. Here are steps to help you in your job search:
Research Contracting Companies
Start by researching companies that are known for fulfilling contracts with the federal government.
Visit Company Career Pages
Visit the career pages of each contracting company you are interested in. These pages often have search functions that allow you to filter job openings by location, job type, and other criteria.
Create Job Alerts
Many company career pages allow you to create job alerts. This means you can receive notifications when new job openings that match your criteria are posted. This can be a valuable tool in staying up-to-date with opportunities.
Research Company Reviews and Salaries
Use platforms like Glassdoor to research company reviews, morale, and salary ranges. This will give you insights into the company culture and help you set realistic salary expectations.
Tailor Your Application
When applying for positions, tailor your application materials to match the specific requirements and qualifications of the job. Highlight how your experience as a Border Patrol Agent is relevant to the position.
Network with Company Recruiters
In addition to applying for jobs online, try to network with recruiters from the contracting companies. LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for this. Connecting with recruiters can help you learn about job openings and get your application noticed.
Research Contracting Companies
Start by researching companies that are known for fulfilling contracts with the federal government.
Visit Company Career Pages
Visit the career pages of each contracting company you are interested in. These pages often have search functions that allow you to filter job openings by location, job type, and other criteria.
- Accenture Careers
- Agile Careers
- Booz Allen Hamilton Careers
- CACI International Careers
- Deloitte Careers
- Dignari Careers
- General Dynamics Careers
- Guidehouse Careers
- Leidos Careers
- LMI Careers
- Lockheed Martin Careers
- Northrop Grumman Careers
- SAIC Careers
- Raytheon Technologies Careers
Create Job Alerts
Many company career pages allow you to create job alerts. This means you can receive notifications when new job openings that match your criteria are posted. This can be a valuable tool in staying up-to-date with opportunities.
Research Company Reviews and Salaries
Use platforms like Glassdoor to research company reviews, morale, and salary ranges. This will give you insights into the company culture and help you set realistic salary expectations.
Tailor Your Application
When applying for positions, tailor your application materials to match the specific requirements and qualifications of the job. Highlight how your experience as a Border Patrol Agent is relevant to the position.
Network with Company Recruiters
In addition to applying for jobs online, try to network with recruiters from the contracting companies. LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for this. Connecting with recruiters can help you learn about job openings and get your application noticed.
Planning for Mental Well-being in Retirement
Congratulations on reaching this pivotal moment in your career. Transitioning out of the U.S. Border Patrol is a significant step, and being well-prepared can ensure a smooth and successful transition. As you move forward, it's essential to consider not only the financial and professional aspects of retirement but also the impact on your mental well-being. Here are the next steps to consider:
- Review and Reflect: Take some time to review all the information provided on this page. Reflect on your career goals, financial situation, personal preferences, and mental well-being as you consider your next steps. Remember, retirement is not just about financial planning; it's also about finding purpose, setting goals, and maintaining a healthy mental state.
- Create a Timeline: Take some time to review all the information provided on this page. Reflect on your career goals, financial situation, personal preferences, and mental well-being as you consider your next steps. Remember, retirement is not just about financial planning; it's also about finding purpose, setting goals, and maintaining a healthy mental state.
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Fraternal Order of Retired Border Patrol Officers Patch
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- Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with the latest information and resources on retirement planning and mental well-being. Remember, retirement is a journey, and staying informed can help you navigate it successfully.
- Plan for Mental Well-being: Consider how you will maintain your mental well-being in retirement. This could include setting new goals, pursuing hobbies, volunteering, or even planning for periods of relaxation. Remember, it's your retirement, and it's up to you to decide how you want to spend it.
- Stay Active and Engaged: Maintain an active lifestyle and keep socially engaged. Regular physical activity can improve mood, reduce stress, and promote better sleep. Social engagement can contribute to your emotional well-being and prevent feelings of loneliness or isolation.
- Lifelong Learning: Consider taking up a new hobby, learning a new language, or even pursuing a course or degree you've always been interested in. Continuous learning can keep your mind sharp, increase your knowledge, and provide a sense of accomplishment.
- Balance Leisure and Productivity: While it's important to relax and enjoy your leisure time in retirement, balancing leisure with productive activities can contribute to a fulfilling retirement. This balance is different for everyone, and it's important to find what works best for you.
- Seek Professional Guidance: If you're finding the transition to retirement challenging, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Mental health professionals, such as psychologists or counselors, can provide strategies and tools to navigate this life change. Additionally, retirement coaches can offer guidance and support to help you create a fulfilling and meaningful retirement.
Remember, retirement is a new chapter in your life, and it's important to approach it with a holistic perspective. By considering your mental well-being alongside your financial and professional plans, you can ensure a more fulfilling and enjoyable retirement. Best of luck on your new journey!
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