CBP Launches Reemployment Initiative for Recent Retirees Amid Staffing Challenges

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is actively seeking to rehire former officers and Air and Marine Operations (AMO) agents who retired between July 2020 and July 2024. This initiative aims to leverage the extensive experience of retired personnel to bolster the agency's operational capabilities and address ongoing staffing needs.

Andrea Bright, CBP’s Human Resources Assistant Commissioner, stated in a recent announcement, “CBP is dedicated to leveraging the expertise and experience of our retired personnel to strengthen our mission.” She emphasized that the knowledge and skills of these retired individuals are invaluable for the agency's mission. The program offers a unique opportunity for eligible annuitants to return to service.

A key component of this reemployment drive is the potential for a Dual Compensation Waiver. This waiver allows retired federal employees to receive both their full federal retirement benefits and a full salary concurrently, without the usual offset. This provision, often granted under authorities like the National Defense Authorization Act for situations of "exceptional difficulty in recruiting or retaining qualified candidates" or "other unusual circumstances," makes the offer particularly attractive.

CBP has faced persistent staffing challenges, with reports indicating that the agency has struggled to meet its hiring targets for several years. Data from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) shows that attrition has at times outpaced hiring, leading to understaffing across various sectors. A significant number of law enforcement personnel are also projected to become eligible for retirement around 2028, further highlighting the urgency of recruitment and retention efforts.

The reemployment of experienced personnel is seen as a strategic move to quickly fill critical roles and maintain operational effectiveness. The agency seeks to capitalize on the institutional knowledge and on-the-ground expertise of those who have recently left, providing a rapid solution to immediate workforce gaps. This program is part of CBP's broader strategy to enhance border security and facilitate trade and travel amidst evolving challenges.