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Border Force officer
Border Force officers protect UK border entry points like ports and airports, by enforcing immigration and customs regulations.
Average salary (a year)
£26000
Starter
£32000
Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
38.0 to 42.0 hours
a week
Work Hours
evenings / weekends / bank holidays
on shifts
How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role
You can get into this job through:a college course; an apprenticeship; working your way up; applying directly
College
You could do a college course in public services which could help you to develop some of the skills and knowledge needed in this role.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
    Apprenticeship
    You could do a Public Service Operational Delivery Officer Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship with the Civil Service.
    This can take up to 1 year and 6 months to complete.
    Entry requirements
    To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
    • 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths
    More Information
    equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
    Civil Service apprenticeships|https://www.civil-service-careers.gov.uk/apprenticeships/
    guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide
    Work
    You could join the Civil Service as a Border Force assistant officer, then apply for an officer post when vacancies become available.
    Direct Application
    You could apply directly to become a Border Force officer. To enter at officer level, you'll need at least 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths, or equivalent qualifications.
    More Information
    Further Information
    You can find out more about working as a Border Force officer from:Home Office Careers, Border Force, Civil Service Careers
    What it takes
    Find out what skills you’ll use in this role
    Skills and knowledge
    You'll need:
      Knowledge of public safety and security
      Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
      The ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
      Excellent verbal communication skills
      The ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
      The ability to work well with others
      Knowledge of english language
      Customer service skills
    Digital Skills Level
    to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
    Related Restrictions
    be over 18 years of age
    be a UK citizen
    have lived in the UK for the last 5 years
    pass a medical check
    have a good level of fitness
    have a full driving licence
    What you will do
    Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role
    Day to day tasks
    As a Border Force officer, you would
    check travel documents and passports, question passengers about their reasons for visiting the UK, search people, luggage and vehicles, work with the police and immigration officials on operations, write case notes and reports, attend court as a witness
    Working environment
    You could work at a border post.
    You may need to wear a uniform.
    Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.
    Career Path & Progression
    Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities
    You'll get continuous training during your first 6 to 12 months. Once you've passed your probationary period, you'll have the full responsibilities of a Border Force officer.
    You'll get regular training throughout your career. With experience, you could become a senior Border Force officer, team leader or move into a management position. You could also use your skills to train and work with new staff.
    You may also be able to apply for roles in other departments of the Home Office or Civil Service.
    Job profile data provided by The National Careers Service.
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