🟢 Status: OPEN — Closes September 30, 2026 | Washington, DC (25 Field Offices Nationwide) | Source: USAJOBS.gov
ICE Deportation Officer Jobs 2026 — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement | Up to $50K Signing Bonus | Apply USAJOBS
If you have been searching for ICE deportation officer jobs 2026, this is the post you need before applying. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) — under the Department of Homeland Security — is actively recruiting Deportation Officers nationwide through an open continuous announcement that runs until September 30, 2026. This is a rare federal law enforcement career that starts at the GL-5 entry level, requires no college degree, and offers up to $50,000 in signing and retention bonuses. If you want to serve in federal law enforcement without a four-year degree and earn a competitive government salary, this is one of the best opportunities available right now.
The position sits within ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) division across all 25 ICE Field Office Areas of Responsibility. The career ladder runs from GL-5 all the way to GS-12, and with Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) or Administratively Uncontrollable Overtime (AUO) on top of base salary, total first-year compensation for a GL-7 officer in a major metro area can easily reach $65,000–$80,000 — before any bonus.
Job Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Deportation Officer |
| Agency | U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) — Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) |
| Department | Department of Homeland Security (DHS) |
| Job Series | GS-1801 General Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement, and Compliance |
| Location | Washington, DC (positions assigned across 25 ERO Field Offices) |
| Work Schedule | Full-Time, Permanent |
| Appointment Type | Career / Career-Conditional |
| Pay Scale & Grade | GL-5 to GL-9 |
| Salary Range | $33,878 – $84,277 per year (base, before AUO/locality) |
| Signing Bonus | Up to $50,000 (5-year service commitment required) + student loan repayment |
| Opening Date | Open Continuous |
| Closing Date | September 30, 2026 — Apply Now |
| Who May Apply | U.S. Citizens — Open to the Public |
| Security Clearance | Secret (required) |
| Drug Test | Required |
| Fitness Test | Required — 3-part PFT (kneel/stand, push-ups, 5-min cardio step test) |
| Apply Now | Click Here to Apply on USAJOBS |
About the Role
A Deportation Officer works within ICE's Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) — the core enforcement arm responsible for locating, arresting, detaining, transporting, and removing individuals who violate U.S. immigration law. This is a frontline federal law enforcement career with real authority: Deportation Officers carry firearms, execute civil and criminal arrests, manage immigration court cases, coordinate removals to foreign countries, and conduct legal research to support removal proceedings in federal immigration courts.
Unlike many federal positions that require years of experience or advanced degrees, deportation officer USAJOBS postings are open to the general public. U.S. citizens with a high school diploma and a commitment to public service can qualify at the GL-5 entry level. The role spans everything from detention facility management and court escorts to fugitive operations and international deportation coordination.
ICE has dramatically expanded its hiring in 2025 and 2026 as part of DHS's enforcement surge. If you are considering ICE jobs 2026 open to public, the Deportation Officer role is the most accessible and fastest-growing position in the agency right now.
“As a deportation officer with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, you will uphold U.S. immigration law at, within, and beyond our borders. Your work is critical to the enforcement of immigration law against those who present a danger to our national security, are a threat to public safety, or who otherwise undermine the integrity of our immigration system.” — ICE Official Careers Page
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Locate, arrest, and process individuals who violate U.S. immigration laws under civil and criminal authority
- Manage immigration enforcement cases from initial arrest through final removal order
- Coordinate and escort detainees to immigration courts, detention facilities, and deportation flights
- Conduct legal research to support removal proceedings and assist U.S. attorneys in court actions
- Initiate both criminal and civil prosecutions related to immigration violations
- Transport and escort criminal and non-criminal detainees under secure custody protocols
- Manage custodial operations within ICE detention facilities and contract facilities
- Interface with foreign government consulates to arrange travel documents for removal cases
- Conduct surveillance, interviews, and field investigations to identify immigration violators
- Use ICE case management systems to document, track, and update enforcement actions
- Serve as a testifying officer in immigration court proceedings
- Collaborate with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies on joint operations
Qualifications and Requirements
Here is the full breakdown of ICE deportation officer requirements by entry grade level:
| Grade | Salary Range (Base) | Education / Experience Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GL-5 | $33,878 – $44,039/yr | High school diploma/GED, OR 1 year general experience, OR 4-year college degree (any major) |
| GL-7 | $41,966 – $54,555/yr | 1 year specialized LEO experience at GL-5, OR bachelor's with Superior Academic Achievement, OR 1 year graduate education |
| GL-9 | $51,319 – $66,714/yr | 1 year specialized experience at GL-7 level |
💡 Note: Deportation Officers in positions certified for Administratively Uncontrollable Overtime (AUO) receive up to 25% of base salary as an additional pay supplement — similar to the Law Enforcement Availability Pay (LEAP) paid to FBI, DEA, and ATF agents. GL-7 officers in major metro areas can earn $65,000–$80,000 total in their first year before the signing bonus.
Other Requirements:
- U.S. citizenship required
- Must enter on duty before 40th birthday (waivers for preference-eligible veterans and former federal LEOs)
- Valid U.S. driver's license
- Must be eligible to carry a firearm
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service
- Must pass a 3-part Physical Fitness Test (PFT): kneel/stand, push-ups, 5-minute cardiovascular step test
- Must pass a medical examination (ICE Form 30-048)
- Must obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test (ICE is a drug-free workplace)
- One-year probationary period upon appointment
Salary and Benefits
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | $33,878–$84,277/yr (GL-5 to GL-9, before locality) |
| ICE Deportation Officer Signing Bonus | Up to $50,000 for new hires with 5-year service agreement (ICE deportation officer signing bonus $50,000) |
| AUO / Availability Pay | Up to 25% of base salary for eligible positions |
| Locality Pay | Additional % based on assignment city — NYC, DC, LA add $10,000–$25,000+ |
| Student Loan Repayment | Available for eligible new hires |
| Paid Time Off | 26 days annual leave + 13 sick days per year |
| Federal Holidays | 11 paid federal holidays |
| Health Insurance | FEHB — government covers ~70% of premium |
| Dental & Vision | FEDVIP |
| Retirement | Law Enforcement FERS — retire at age 50 with 20 years of service |
| TSP (401k equivalent) | 5% government match on Thrift Savings Plan contributions |
| Paid Parental Leave | 12 weeks |
| Life Insurance | FEGLI |
How to Become a Deportation Officer — Step-by-Step Application Process
Here is exactly how to become a deportation officer in 2026, from application to first day on the job:
- Create a USAJOBS Profile — Go to usajobs.gov and create a free profile. Upload a federal-style resume (2–4 pages) emphasizing any law enforcement, military, security, or public safety experience.
- Find the Announcement — Search for deportation officer USAJOBS announcement #869616100 at ice.usajobs.gov or search Deportation Officer at USAJOBS.gov.
- Submit Your Application — Complete the occupational questionnaire and upload required documents: resume, DD-214 (if veteran), transcripts (if using education to qualify), and SF-50 (if current/former federal employee).
- Pass the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) — You will be scheduled for a 3-part fitness screening: kneel/stand test, push-ups, and a 5-minute cardiovascular step test. Prepare in advance.
- Medical Clearance — Complete ICE Form 30-048 with your healthcare provider and upload it as part of your application package.
- Background Investigation and Secret Clearance — Security vetting typically takes 2 weeks to 3 months but can extend up to one year. ICE will initiate this after a conditional offer.
- Attend BIETP at FLETC — New officers complete the ICE deportation officer training FLETC pipeline: approximately 47 days at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia, covering immigration law, use of force, firearms, and defensive tactics.
- Complete DOTP — The Deportation Officer Transition Program (DOTP) follows BIETP with ICE-specific case management, court procedures, and removal coordination training.
- Report to Duty Station — Assignments are based on agency needs across 25 ERO Field Offices. You will be paid during all training phases at government expense.
⚠️ Important: This is an open continuous announcement — the next cut-off date for referral could be set at any time. Apply as early as possible. Always apply directly at USAJOBS.gov.
Veterans Preference
Veterans receive significant advantages when applying for ICE deportation officer jobs 2026. Five-point preference is available to honorably discharged veterans who served on active duty during a qualifying campaign or period. Ten-point preference is available to veterans with a service-connected disability or the Purple Heart. Preference-eligible veterans also receive an age waiver past the normal under-40 requirement.
Military experience in law enforcement, security, investigations, or detention — such as Military Police (MOS 31B), Criminal Investigation (MOS 31D), Security Forces (AFSC 3P0X1), or Master-at-Arms (Navy Rating MA) — is particularly strong qualifying experience for the GL-7 grade level. Include your DD-214 (Member Copy 4) and, if applicable, your VA disability rating letter with your application.
Federal Law Enforcement With No Degree — Why ICE Stands Out
For anyone searching for federal law enforcement jobs no degree 2026, ICE's Deportation Officer role is one of the strongest options available. The FBI, DEA, and ATF all require a bachelor's degree. ICE ERO accepts GL-5 applications with only a high school diploma — making it one of the most accessible federal law enforcement career paths in the country.
The combination of no degree requirement, ICE deportation officer signing bonus $50,000, federal pension with early retirement at age 50, and a career ladder reaching GS-12 makes this an exceptional long-term opportunity. With deportation officer GL-5 GL-7 hiring now open on a continuous basis through September 2026, the window to apply is wide open right now.
About U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is the principal investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the second-largest investigative agency in the federal government. ICE employs more than 20,000 law enforcement officers and staff across more than 400 offices in the U.S. and 50+ countries worldwide. The Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) division manages civil immigration enforcement through 25 field offices, 139 sub-offices, and more than 200 detention facilities. ICE's annual budget exceeds $8 billion, and the agency plays a central role in national security and border enforcement operations across the country.
Other Federal Jobs You May Need
Border Patrol Agent Jobs 2026 – GL-5 to GS-12 | Up to $20K Signing Bonus | Apply USAJOBS
Customs and Border Protection Officer Jobs 2026 – GS-5 to GS-12 | Apply on USAJOBS
Frequently Asked Questions — ICE Deportation Officer Jobs 2026
Q: Do I need a college degree to become an ICE Deportation Officer?
No. The GL-5 entry level requires only a high school diploma or GED. The GL-7 level can be met through 1 year of specialized experience without any degree.
Q: How much is the ICE signing bonus in 2026?
ICE is offering up to $50,000 in signing and retention bonuses for new hires who commit to a 5-year service agreement, funded under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act's $858 million recruitment allocation.
Q: Where will I be stationed as a Deportation Officer?
Assignments are made based on agency needs across 25 ICE ERO Field Office Areas of Responsibility spanning major cities including El Paso, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Chicago, and Dallas.
Q: How long does the ICE hiring process take?
Typically 3–12 months from application to start date, primarily depending on how quickly your Secret clearance investigation is completed.
Q: Can veterans apply past age 40?
Yes. Preference-eligible veterans and those who have previously served as federal civilian law enforcement officers are exempt from the under-40 age requirement.
Q: What is the GL pay scale vs GS?
GL (General Law enforcement) is a separate pay scale used specifically for entry-level federal law enforcement positions. GL positions carry AUO and overtime eligibility not available on the standard GS (General Schedule) scale.
FederalJobsAlert.us is an independent job notification website. This listing is sourced from USAJOBS.gov for informational purposes only. Always verify the latest details and apply directly at usajobs.gov/job/869616100. We are not affiliated with ICE, DHS, or any U.S. government agency.