How to Become an Air and Marine Operations Agent (AMO)

Interested in joining federal law enforcement with a focus on aviation or marine patrol? Becoming an Air and Marine Operations (AMO) Agent with U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers a dynamic career guarding America’s borders from the sky and sea. Learn how to qualify, apply, and succeed in this elite role—whether you’re a licensed pilot, an experienced boat operator, or someone passionate about national security.

What Does an AMO Agent Do?

Air and Marine Operations Agents are part of CBP’s Office of Air and Marine (OAM). Their mission is to detect, intercept, and prevent unlawful movement of people, drugs, weapons, and other contraband across the U.S. border through aerial and maritime patrol.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate aircraft, boats, and surveillance systems to monitor U.S. borders
• Conduct air and marine-based law enforcement operations
• Intercept smugglers and illegal cross-border activity
• Support other agencies with homeland security missions
• Patrol coastal areas, rivers, lakes, and airspace

AMO Job Requirements

Before applying, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria:

Basic Requirements:

• U.S. citizenship
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to pass a background check and drug test
• Meet medical, physical fitness, and vision standards
• Willingness to travel and relocate

Specialized Requirements (Depending on Role):

• Air Interdiction Agent (Pilot): Commercial pilot license with instrument rating, flight hours
• Marine Interdiction Agent: Experience operating marine vessels, often in a law enforcement or military capacity

Education and Experience

There’s no specific degree required, but candidates with backgrounds in:

• Aviation or marine operations
• Criminal justice
• Law enforcement or military service

…may have an advantage. Prior experience in piloting or boat navigation is highly valuable.

The Hiring Process

Becoming an AMO Agent involves several steps to ensure you meet the agency’s high standards.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Submit Your Application
   Apply through USAJobs.gov when the AMO hiring announcement is open.
2. Take the Entrance Exam
   Depending on the position (air or marine), this may include assessments on judgment, reasoning, and technical knowledge.
3. Background Investigation
   Includes fingerprinting, a polygraph test, and a review of criminal, financial, and personal history.
4. Medical and Fitness Tests
   Vision, hearing, cardiovascular health, and physical readiness are tested.
5. Interview Process
   You may be interviewed by a panel of CBP officers or hiring officials.
6. Training at FLETC
   Selected candidates attend the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) in Glynco, GA. Specialized air or marine tactical training will follow.

Salary and Benefits

AMO Agents are federal employees and receive competitive pay and benefits.

• Starting Salary: GL-7 to GL-9, with a clear path to GL-11 and beyond
• Base Pay + Locality Pay + Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement benefits with early retirement options after 20 years of service
• Paid training, vacation, and sick leave

AMO vs Border Patrol or CBP Officer

Role	AMO Agent	CBP Officer	Border Patrol Agent
Primary Focus	Air and marine interdiction	Screening at ports of entry	Land border patrol
Work Environment	Aircraft, boats, tactical centers	Airports, seaports, land crossings	Outdoor, remote areas
Specialized Skills	Piloting, marine navigation	Public interaction, documentation	Tracking, surveillance
Training	FLETC + tactical air/marine training	FLETC Glynco	FLETC Artesia

FAQ: Becoming an Air and Marine Operations Agent

What is an AMO Agent?

An AMO Agent is a federal law enforcement officer with CBP who specializes in air and marine interdiction. They use aircraft, boats, and surveillance technology to prevent illegal border activity.

What are the qualifications to become an AMO Agent?

You must be a U.S. citizen, have a valid driver’s license, pass a background check and drug test, meet physical and vision standards, and complete specialized training. Pilots and marine operators also need relevant certifications and experience.

Do I need to be a pilot or boat operator to apply?

Yes, depending on the specific role. Air Interdiction Agents require a commercial pilot license with flight experience. Marine Interdiction Agents need hands-on experience operating marine vessels, often with law enforcement or military training.

Where do AMO Agents work?

They are stationed along the U.S. coastline, inland waterways, and border regions. Common duty stations include Florida, Texas, California, and Puerto Rico.

How long is the training for AMO Agents?

All agents attend the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC), followed by advanced tactical training specific to air or marine duties. Training can last several months.

What is the salary of an AMO Agent?

Starting salaries range from GL-7 to GL-9, with opportunities for promotion. Agents receive locality pay and Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP), along with full federal benefits.

How competitive is the AMO hiring process?

It’s highly competitive due to the specialized nature of the job. Prior military service, law enforcement experience, and technical skills in aviation or maritime operations can strengthen your application.

Is relocation required for AMO Agents?

Yes. New agents must be willing to relocate based on the needs of the agency. Duty assignments are determined after selection.

Final Thoughts

If you have a passion for aviation or marine operations and want to serve in a high-impact federal law enforcement role, a career as an Air and Marine Operations Agent may be your calling. With the right training, physical readiness, and dedication, you can help secure America’s borders from the air and sea.

Want to prepare for the AMO hiring process? Stay tuned to our blog for entrance exam tips, interview guidance, and agency insights to help you succeed.