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El Centro, Calif. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection will host a CBP officer hiring event on Friday, February 6, as part of the agency’s “New Year, New Career” campaign to hire several thousand new officers nationwide, many specifically for the ports of entry in Calexico.

The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Imperial County One Stop Business and Employment Center, located at 2695 S. 4th St., Building “D” in El Centro.

The Calexico ports of entry are among the busiest and most active for smuggling in the nation. The career of a CBP Officer is demanding, but the rewards for protecting the nation from dangerous people and contraband are exceptional.

Few other law enforcement agencies offer front-line opportunities to defend against terrorist intrusion, apprehend fugitives and other dangerous criminals, and stop criminal activities such as drug smuggling, money laundering, undocumented entry of individuals, weapons trafficking, smuggling of prohibited goods, and a host of other violations.

Applicants seeking information about the position will be able to talk with CBP recruiters and apply on-line at the event.

These are full-time, uniformed positions starting at the GS-5 to GS-7 level with starting pay approximately $30,772 - $38,117 annually that enjoy non-competitive promotions to the GS-11 level, earning $56,411. CBP officers have the opportunity of making up to an additional $35,000 in overtime. The position requires regular qualification and carrying of firearms as well as successful completion of the CBP Academy at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Ga.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens under 37-years-old and have at least three years of general experience that demonstrate the ability to meet and work with people. Positions are contingent upon a background investigation and are subject to random drug testing. The employment opportunity includes a generous benefits package and 15 weeks of paid training.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.