Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE Careers

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is an agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security. The agency is responsible for enforcing federal laws governing border control, customs, trade, and immigration. ICE also investigates and prosecutes violations of civil and criminal immigration laws, including terrorism, human trafficking, and financial crimes.

You can apply for a job with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) by visiting the official website, USAJobs.gov. On the website, you can search for current job postings related to ICE. After finding a job that interests you, follow the instructions to create an account and submit an application.

To work for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree, and for some positions, a master’s degree may also be required. In addition, applicants should meet the physical, medical, and background requirements of the position they are seeking. Candidates must also pass a written exam, drug test, and polygraph test.

1. Special Agent 2. Detention Enforcement Officer 3. Law Enforcement Technician 4. Immigration Officer 5. Intelligence Research Specialist 6. Cyber Security Analyst 7. Data Analyst 8. Administrative Support Specialist 9. Legal Assistant 10. Financial Analyst

Yes, a background check is required to work for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). ICE requires that all applicants undergo a thorough background investigation prior to employment. This includes a review of criminal, credit, and employment history.

Yes, there are physical and medical requirements for working for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE. These requirements are detailed in the job announcement and vary depending on the position for which you are applying. Generally, applicants must pass a physical fitness test, a medical examination, and a drug screening. Applicants must also meet vision, hearing, and physical agility standards.

Yes, you may apply for multiple jobs with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE. However, you must submit a separate application for each job you are interested in.

The processing time for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE applications depends on the specific type of application being submitted and the individual's circumstances. Generally, it can take several months or more for a decision to be made.

The salary range for jobs with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) varies depending on the position. Entry-level positions start at around $37,000 per year, while highly experienced agents can make up to $100,000 per year.

Yes, there are a number of benefits associated with working for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE. These benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families, flexible spending accounts, access to retirement programs, paid time off, and educational assistance. Additionally, ICE offers employee assistance programs, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, and other benefits.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE provides a variety of training to its employees. This includes basic and in-depth training on ICE operations, such as investigations and enforcement actions, as well as specialized training in areas such as immigration law, intelligence analysis, and terrorism and homeland security issues. ICE also provides specialized training to its personnel in areas such as search and seizure law, the use of firearms, and responding to hazardous materials and terrorism incidents. Additionally, ICE provides language training to personnel assigned to foreign language-speaking posts.

The length of training with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE varies depending on the specific position being trained for. Generally, new hires will go through a period of classroom training that lasts between two and four weeks, followed by on-the-job training.

The amount of travel required for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE jobs depends on the job. Some positions may require travel to other locations in the United States or abroad. This could include travel to investigate cases, participate in conferences or training, and to attend court hearings.

Yes, relocation assistance is provided for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE employees. The relocation assistance will vary based on the employee's individual situation and will be discussed in detail with their HR representative.

The probationary period for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE is one year.

Yes, there are career advancement opportunities with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE. Employees are eligible for promotions, transfers, and other career advancement opportunities. ICE encourages employees to continue their education and training, and offers tuition assistance and other programs to help employees pursue their educational goals. ICE also offers specialized training courses in a variety of areas, such as intelligence analysis, law enforcement, and investigative techniques.

Yes, ICE offers several special programs, including the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), and the U Visa Program.

The security clearance required to work for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE will depend on the individual position. Most positions require applicants to hold a current Top Secret or higher security clearance.

Yes, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-ICE employees must follow the standard Department of Homeland Security dress code. This includes professional attire such as suits and ties for men, and skirts or pantsuits for women. Additionally, employees must wear appropriate footwear and clothing that is free of logos, slogans, and other forms of advertising.

The work schedule for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) jobs typically follows a 40-hour workweek, Monday through Friday. However, ICE employees may be required to work overtime, holidays, and weekends depending on the position and job requirements.