Resume for CBP Officer

First impressions matter, and your resume is the best place to impress. A clear, results-focused resume helps you stand out to hiring officers. After 18 years as a CBP officer, here are my top tips for writing a strong resume:

1. Use Keywords from the Job Announcement

Study the job posting and identify keywords that highlight what the agency wants. Use them naturally in your resume.

Example (from CBP duties: “conduct interviews of individuals”):

• Experienced in conducting interviews of passengers to prevent dangerous items from entering airlines, resulting in dozens of seizures.

2. Use Active Language

Avoid long, passive sentences. Use strong action verbs like Led, Organized, Directed, Accomplished.

Weak:

Able to report the need for cleaning supplies, equipment repair in advance and all other health and safety hazards noticed...

Improved:

• Led a 5-member staff in emergency drills, reducing workplace accidents by 25%.
• Managed reports on equipment needs and repairs, saving $12,000 in one fiscal year.

3. Show Results

Don’t just list duties—show impact. Hiring officers see hundreds of similar resumes. Stand out by quantifying results.

• Led a 5-member staff in emergency drills, reducing accidents by 25%.
• Managed reports on equipment needs and repairs, saving $12,000 in one fiscal year.

4. Be Genuine

Avoid clichés like “highly motivated individual.” Write statements that reflect your true motivation.

Example:

• With a strong interest in public service, I aim to support CBP’s mission by applying my skills in risk management and security operations.

5. Highlight Key Skills—Especially Leadership

Don’t list every task. Focus on transferable skills, especially leadership.

Weak:

Designated employees to work areas to ensure cleanliness and safety...

Improved:

• Led a 12-person workforce to achieve customer satisfaction goals.
• Created and managed supply reports, increasing productivity by 13%.

6. Proofread and Review

Even experienced professionals make writing mistakes. Ask a skilled colleague or friend to review your resume. Online communities can also provide free feedback.

7. Use AI Tools

If writing is difficult, use tools like ChatGPT or Gemini. Draft your ideas first, then ask the AI to edit as an expert in professional resumes. 

Final Thoughts

These 7 tips will help your resume stand out. I’ve used them to help others secure CBP positions, and they can work for you too. Share these with others—the goal isn’t just landing the job but building a strong workforce.

And once you’re in, the next step to keep climbing is mastering interview skills. Click here to learn free, field-tested interview techniques.