CBP officer

[merlin436]

Another thing to consider about the 71 officers leaving per payperiod is the fact that in many locations CBP hired a great deal of people in the 55+ age range...especially in 02-04. These folks came in looking to only work 3...5...10 years at the most. They were/are leaving regardless of CBP's problems.

With the new retirement virtually no one comes in over the age of 36. Nearly all will be looking to do 20+ and out. Things will have to change just to accomadate the fact that the over 36 crowd is unavailable to hire, IMO.

[WFM1125]

Is there ANY way to get an update on status after receiving my scores? This waiting game is driving me insane!

[barnaj]

Is there ANY way to get an update on status after receiving my scores? This waiting game is driving me insane!

Have you recieved a t.o. packet in the mail yet? If not the only way would be to check cass and if you show up in there, that means a t.o. is on the way.

[shawal16]

Is there ANY way to get an update on status after receiving my scores? This waiting game is driving me insane!

You have a long way to go..if waiting is already driving you insane. I tested in March (see my timeline) I'm still waiting to EOD.

[barnaj]

Is there ANY way to get an update on status after receiving my scores? This waiting game is driving me insane!

Also, have you recieved your NOR's? I notice in your timeline that you didnt list a test score.

[barnaj]

You have a long way to go..if waiting is already driving you insane. I tested in March (see my timeline) I'm still waiting to EOD.

Your drug test still hasnt come back? Did you take it along with your medical? That seems like a long time not to have your results yet.

[shawal16]

Your drug test still hasnt come back? Did you take it along with your medical? That seems like a long time not to have your results yet.

I never took my drug test. I assumed that the medical and drug test were separate entities. I thought they occurred at different times, and the drug test is random. I'm not stressing to much about the drug test because from what I heard it clears fast after its administered, and because I haven't even met with my BI yet. I am more anxious about getting the interview completed. Those that received interims have already received. At this point, I doubt an interim is in my future.

[barnaj]

I never took my drug test. I assumed that the medical and drug test were separate entities. I thought they occurred at different times, and the drug test is random. I'm not stressing to much about the drug test because from what I heard it clears fast after its administered, and because I haven't even met with my BI yet. I am more anxious about getting the interview completed. Those that received interims have already received. At this point, I doubt an interim is in my future.

Hard to say. i took my dope test the same day as my medical and physical. As far as an interim goes, i had a girl in my FLETC class who went through the whole academy without having ever met her investigator. He actually called her to set up a meeting and she's like "well im at FLETC right now". You can't figure out the ways of the Gov't no matter how hard you try.

[Barbrady]

I took the exam over a year ago. I put North Carolina and have never received a thing. Scored 91. Any suggestions on what locations I should change to??

[barnaj]

I took the exam over a year ago. I put North Carolina and have never received a thing. Scored 91. Any suggestions on what locations I should change to??

Thats tough, i know those southeast coast stations can be hard to get. It all depends on if and when you are willing/able to relocate. I know places like Detroit, Washington state, Chicago O'hare and the southwest border locations are usually hiring pretty steady.

[WFM1125]

Also, have you recieved your NOR's? I notice in your timeline that you didnt list a test score.

Yeah, received my scores. Need to update that. :eek: Received my score 08/01 (or about).

[shawal16]

Hard to say. i took my dope test the same day as my medical and physical. As far as an interim goes, i had a girl in my FLETC class who went through the whole academy without having ever met her investigator. He actually called her to set up a meeting and she's like "well im at FLETC right now". You can't figure out the ways of the Gov't no matter how hard you try.

I would love to have an interim. I hope to be at FLETC before 09.

[shawal16]

I have received mixed answers for this question. But, I thought I would ask again.

Does shift differentials and holiday pay calculate into the OT cap?

[audi0xpl0de]

Any new TOs gone out since the July testing? I've only heard of MI so far.

[barnaj]

I would love to have an interim. I hope to be at FLETC before 09.

In theory interim is great because it gets you to the dirty south faster. But it can be a little stressful because you never know what might come up before you leave fletc, even if you think youre bi is clean. For example i had a guy in my class who was former tsa for a few years, assumed he was good, and got yanked and given a NOPA during the last couple weeks because his employer from pizza hut from years ago said he was lazy and unreliable. Stupid crap always seems to come up.

[shawal16]

In theory interim is great because it gets you to the dirty south faster. But it can be a little stressful because you never know what might come up before you leave fletc, even if you think youre bi is clean. For example i had a guy in my class who was former tsa for a few years, assumed he was good, and got yanked and given a NOPA during the last couple weeks because his employer from pizza hut from years ago said he was lazy and unreliable. Stupid crap always seems to come up.

Oh wow, so if your at FLETC and receive a NOPA they automatically yank you out of class, or do you have time to respond. I don't think my background is sqeaky clean; however, I think I can explain everything to show I will not be a security concern. I think that's what responding to NOPA's are all about. Just reassurance that you will not be a problem down the line.

[bronze01]

Proof is in the pudding...we can only improve??? :)

Overall Index Scores for Employee Satisfaction and Engagement
The overall index score measures the performance of agencies and agency subcomponents related to employee satisfaction and engagement.

Rank Agency Name 2007 Score 2005 Score Percent Change
1 Nuclear Regulatory Commission 76.2 74.8 1.9%
2 Government Accountability Office 72.1 74.6 -3.4%
3 Securities and Exchange Commission 71.9 73.1 -1.6%
4 National Aeronautics and Space Administration 69.7 69.9 -0.3%
5 Department of Justice 69.0 64.5 7.0%
6 Department of State 67.9 66.6 2.0%
7 Social Security Administration 66.5 60.6 9.7%
8 General Services Administration 65.7 69.6 -5.6%
9 Environmental Protection Agency 65.5 67.8 -3.4%
10 Department of the Army 64.8 64.9 -0.2%
11 Department of the Air Force 63.8 62.6 1.9%
12 Department of Commerce 63.5 64.0 -0.8%
13 All Department of Defense 62.9 63.1 -0.3%
14 Department of the Treasury 62.7 58.6 7.0%
15 Department of Veteran Affairs 61.9 66.2 -6.5%
15 Department of Labor 61.9 61.4 0.8%
17 Department of Agriculture 61.6 62.7 -1.8%
18 Department of Health and Human Services 61.3 62.1 -1.3%
19 Department of the Navy 61.1 62.5 -2.2%
20 Department of Energy 60.9 67.0 -9.1%
21 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation 59.5 54.5 9.2%
22 Department of the Interior 59.1 62.8 -5.9%
23 Department of Housing and Urban Development 57.2 60.3 -5.1%
24 Equal Employment Opportunity Commission 57.1 57.9 -1.4%
25 Office of Personnel Management 54.9 54.2 1.3%
25 National Archives and Records Administration 54.9 56.5 -2.8%
27 Department of Transportation 52.9 59.8 -11.5%
28 Department of Education 52.1 54.0 -3.5%
29 Department of Homeland Security 49.8 49.1 1.4%
30 Small Business Administration 43.4 45.4 -4.4%

[barnaj]

Oh wow, so if your at FLETC and receive a NOPA they automatically yank you out of class, or do you have time to respond. I don't think my background is sqeaky clean; however, I think I can explain everything to show I will not be a security concern. I think that's what responding to NOPA's are all about. Just reassurance that you will not be a problem down the line.

Yeah, when you see the big shot with the full bird on his shoulders sneak into the back of the classroom, you know someones coming out of the class. But yes, you would get a letter or whatever stating what came up, and get a certain amount of time to reply to it. We had guys who'd been arrested for marijuana, credit probs, etc. get pulled out and basically signed a form that acknowledged they'd been warned and could screw up anymore. That kinda stuff.

[shawal16]

Proof is in the pudding...we can only improve??? :)

29 Department of Homeland Security 49.8 49.1 1.4%
30 Small Business Administration 43.4 45.4 -4.4%

Atleast we're not last...That should say something. lol

[shawal16]

Barnaj (or anyone else),

How long after your credit was pulled did you meet with the Background Investigator?

[merlin436]

I have received mixed answers for this question. But, I thought I would ask again.

Does shift differentials and holiday pay calculate into the OT cap?

Get used to getting mixed answers. There are few absolutes in this job and things change often.

My understanding is that all premium pay is included in the 35K cap. That's what I've been told, at least.

However, since neither I nor anyone I personally know of has ever came close enough to capping out that this would come into play, it's more or less an academic question in my CBP circles.

[barnaj]

Barnaj (or anyone else),

How long after your credit was pulled did you meet with the Background Investigator?

Well, i didnt check into it before i met with my investigator. When we met she pulled it out and asked me to verify it. Did you get a notice that yours had been pulled?

[shawal16]

Well, i didnt check into it before i met with my investigator. When we met she pulled it out and asked me to verify it. Did you get a notice that yours had been pulled?

I use True Credit to monitor my credit. It emails me whenever there is a change to my Credit Report. US Customs pulled my credit twice once on the 13 and once on the 20. I wonder if they loss the first one they pulled. Which isn't a good sign at all.

[barnaj]

I use True Credit to monitor my credit. It emails me whenever there is a change to my Credit Report. US Customs pulled my credit twice once on the 13 and once on the 20. I wonder if they loss the first one they pulled. Which isn't a good sign at all.

Well, it's always a good sign that they are doing anything with your file. You never know when it could be sitting in a pile on some overworked ex-fbi agents desk. I cant imagine that if you never defaulted on a govt loan or filed bankruptcy, that credit will be an issue or a long process during the overall b.i.

[shawal16]

I have no credit problems. When I saw Customs pulled my credit I was so excited. But after the time of no other movement my excitement deflated.

[deyosurf19]

Get used to getting mixed answers. There are few absolutes in this job and things change often.

My understanding is that all premium pay is included in the 35K cap. That's what I've been told, at least.

However, since neither I nor anyone I personally know of has ever came close enough to capping out that this would come into play, it's more or less an academic question in my CBP circles.

So are we still getting double time for OT?

[barnaj]

I have no credit problems. When I saw Customs pulled my credit I was so excited. But after the time of no other movement my excitement deflated.

I see by looking at my credit report that they pulled it about a month before my personal interview.

[bronze01]

So are we still getting double time for OT?


Yes you do. But not for the month of September :( That's the way it's looking here @ SFO anyways. "No Money" :eek:

All the Officers are working "Shifts" recently.

I can't wait till October to start earning that extra change again. ;)

[nordy racer]

question.. for the guys that stated a couple pages back about knowing the amount of passing people that tested with them.. how did you guys find that information out?

[deyosurf19]

question.. for the guys that stated a couple pages back about knowing the amount of passing people that tested with them.. how did you guys find that information out?

They gave us the results the same day of the test. People that didn't pass had to leave. All of us others stayed and they gave us our TO.

[nordy racer]

They gave us the results the same day of the test. People that didn't pass had to leave. All of us others stayed and they gave us our TO.

man i wish they did that on my test day.. i hate not knowing how many people passed on my day..

[sap123]

man i wish they did that on my test day.. i hate not knowing how many people passed on my day..

I've done the compressed testing for a PA spot and done a normal testing routine for the CBPO gig. One should much prefer the compressed testing because it cuts out a decent amount of time from taking the test, getting your NOR, and then eventually getting the TO. Take all of that time in between and condense it to a day.

Did CBPO ever do compressed testing? I'm curious, I think I've heard of it happening before but I dunno.

[shawal16]

Did CBPO ever do compressed testing? I'm curious, I think I've heard of it happening before but I dunno.

I heard they experimented with it in Cali.

[miramarnelson]

Can someone answer this question? Could a BI take longer to clear due to the fact that I'm the only member of my family who is an American Citizen? The rest of my family are all legal with green cards and they haven't become citizens mostly because of financial reasons or stupidity like they'll do it whenever they get to it. I don't have a large family in USA it's about 15 family members, Also I'm petitioning for my mother to come and live with me to the states. The reason I ask is because I'm going on 10 months since I tested on NOV 2007 and I still haven't clear BI. I have a clean record, my credit is good, and I've been living in my house since 1996. So I was wondering if some of those factors come into play when it comes to Federal BI.

[Goosell]

Barnaj (or anyone else),

How long after your credit was pulled did you meet with the Background Investigator?

My credit was pulled about 2 weeks before I met with my investigator. She contacted me, I met with her and a week later I had passed the BI in CASS. Then a few days after that I got the call.

Im really surprised the process went this fast, I had kind of figured I would start in Nov. or Dec. I had no idea I would be starting in Sept. I'm not complaining though

[merlin436]

Just about anything can influence your BI, including having aliens in you family.
Friends, jobs, residencies, family, etc. all come into play, along with your criminal record and credit.

10 months is chicken feed compared to some who've gone through the process. You well might be hanging in there for upwards of 3 years...or more.

[Goosell]

Can someone answer this question? Could a BI take longer to clear due to the fact that I'm the only member of my family who is an American Citizen? The rest of my family are all legal with green cards and they haven't become citizens mostly because of financial reasons or stupidity like they'll do it whenever they get to it. I don't have a large family in USA it's about 15 family members, Also I'm petitioning for my mother to come and live with me to the states. The reason I ask is because I'm going on 10 months since I tested on NOV 2007 and I still haven't clear BI. I have a clean record, my credit is good, and I've been living in my house since 1996. So I was wondering if some of those factors come into play when it comes to Federal BI.

I would think that would be a major factor. When my BI talked with me, my references, and my family one of the questions she asked the most was if I knew anyone that lived in another country or if I had ties with anyone in another country. From my understanding they want to know if anyone (in a different country) can hold ransom against you,threaten you,etc. So I would imagine if most of your family/friends live in Mexico they would have to check everyone out with a fine toothed comb.

[merlin436]

So are we still getting double time for OT?

OT= base pay x 2
Eve.diff.= base pay x 1.15
Night diff.= base pay x 1.20
Sun. diff.= base pay x 1.50
Holiday pay= 8 hours of base pay


To revisit your OT cap question, most ports and most officers do not have the opportunity to cap out. That's not to say YOU won't, but don't count on it.

[tmonge518]

I was told the background check can take 6 months to 1 yr from the time the security office recieves the paperwork. My paperwork has been in the security office for 2 months and I have not heard from an investigator.

I cleared all the other criteria. I just recieved a letter that I qualified as a GS 7 after they reviewed my work history and experience.

I am concerned about the background check because my home went into foreclosure and my wife and I are in the process of filing chapter 7 bankruptsy.

Does anyone know if this will prevent me from obtaining a a position as a CBP officer?

[BullGatorTitan]

Finally got approved on here. I tested back in late July, got my score in early August, which was 104 with 10pts veterans preference. My geo preference is for Maine (even though I am from Florida), but I have yet to hear anything from them. I am hoping that when the new fiscal year starts in October that some positions will be funded up there.

The only thing I am worried about taking a while is my BI. I lived in Germany for two years while in the Air Force, so I am thinking that will take some time to get in touch with people over there. Oh, and I will probably have to get Lasik but we will see how things go with the medical. I am used to this waiting game though, hurry up and wait is all it is!

[Goosell]

OT= base pay x 2
Eve.diff.= base pay x 1.15
Night diff.= base pay x 1.20
Sun. diff.= base pay x 1.50
Holiday pay= 8 hours of base pay


To revisit your OT cap question, most ports and most officers do not have the opportunity to cap out. That's not to say YOU won't, but don't count on it.

Do you get paid every two weeks or every week. Also if anyone knows, what are the normal pay checks for a first year gs 5?? (based off my base pay it will be about 600 a week before taxes, but i imagine it is higher than that with the ot, eve,night, sun diff.)

[merlin436]

Do you get paid every two weeks or every week. Also if anyone knows, what are the normal pay checks for a first year gs 5?? (based off my base pay it will be about 600 a week before taxes, but i imagine it is higher than that with the ot, eve,night, sun diff.)

Paychecks come every two weeks. As far a gs-05 net pay goes, that'll all depend on your location, your deductions, and what you'll see for diffs and OT.

[ladyta18]

I have news people! Remember how I've been just waiting and waiting for the adjudicator to make my final decision for the last couple of weeks ( Since July 29th to be exact)? After the lady that suppose to go over my files has been telling me since then that she made her determination and that she turned my files over to her superior to make his/her final determination and that it has not been an update with it since she turned it over? Comes to find out today after I ask to speak with her supervisor, she told me that she never did make her final determination and she never told me she did. She still had my files there and that she sent me a letter of response about my credit and that I RELIED back to it. I told her I never received such a thing and she pulled out my files and we went over my debt. She told me you cannot pass $5,000 in old debt (meaning closed accounts). I was close by the mark. She told me she will pull up my credit report again to see the progress and give me a call back. She told me that my debt was cut in half from the amount she got before, which is good. She said now she has to review the notes from the BI and go from there. Funny enough I have credit monitoring and I receive alerts with changes on my report and I have not received an alert about my credit being pulled but im going to give it 24 hours to see if i receive it. So basically my files has been sitting up there since June. It sat there for a month before I have to call her and then she went and got my files. Now she gave me the run around and she still has it. IF YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING MORE THAN TWO MONTHS FOR YOUR BI TO CLEAR AND ITS AT INTERNAL AFFAIRS, YOU GUYS NEED TO GET ON THE BALL AND HANDLE IT! SOME OF THE ADJUDICATORS ARE SLACKERS! STAY ON TOP OF THINGS! THIS IS WHY PEOPLE HAVE TO KEEP CALLING IA BUGGING THEM CAUSE SITUATIONS LIKE THIS! AT THE RATE HOW THE PROCESS IS GOING, IT SHOULD NOT TAKE MORE THAN THE MAX TWO MONTHS, IF THAT MUCH!

[ST84]

Hey everyone I'm new to the post and I just have a couple questions. I applied for a CBPO position on 8/4/08. I got my NOR about two weeks later and received an 88 (no vet) on my test. I was wondering if this score is high enough to receive a TO my GEO is NJ. And if anyone else is any further along in the process that also has a GEO in NJ. Thanks for any info this forum is extremely helpful.

[youngpup]

A bit off topic but utterly important, well to me anyways. Does anyone know anything medical waivers for the hearing portion of the medical test? I have a hearing loss and want to have my ducks in a row if I need a waiver or qualify for one. Any info on where to find information on waivers, what qualifies and so forth is much appreciated.

[JReaper]

I'm curious as well. Seeing as they're not accepting applicants anymore, and the extended announcement were for other GEO's, I wonder if my GEO is even hiring or if it's going to wait until sometime next year.
Tested 08/01/08
NOR: 08/07/08 - Scored: 93 (no vet)
GEO Mn. all.
Anyone else apply for same GEO and heard anything?

[Gabbanelli911]

[QUOTE=merlin436;1394198]OT= base pay x 2
Eve.diff.= base pay x 1.15
Night diff.= base pay x 1.20
Sun. diff.= base pay x 1.50
Holiday pay= 8 hours of base pay


What's the hours for evening diffential and for night differential?

Let's say that I'm a GS-7 making $17.64 per hour and I'm working the night shift (12am to 8am), does that mean that I'll be making $21.16 per hour (17.64 x 1.20)?

How much will I'll make then if I work on a Sunday night? What about if I work overtime on Sunday night or any day on the night shift?

[DD214]

Do you get paid every two weeks or every week. Also if anyone knows, what are the normal pay checks for a first year gs 5?? (based off my base pay it will be about 600 a week before taxes, but i imagine it is higher than that with the ot, eve,night, sun diff.)

Here is a link to the Office of Personnel Management website. It has all of the pay grades broken down by area...

http://www.opm.gov/oca/08tables/indexGS.asp

[Hound77]

Hey all, I just wanted to finally post and say thanks to all the posters for answering questions. I've been lurking for most of the year but never had to post b/c most of the questions I had were already asked.

I took the test in Jan 07, scored like 93 or there abouts, but backed out of the process in summer 07 due to life events. I reapplied when they opened the position back up in the last quarter of 07.

Since then it went like this.

TO: January
Medical/PT: Early Feb
Drug test: Laste Feb
Started BI: March
Got flagged for a bs problem with my depth perception (their machine said I had almost none, my eye doc's exam said it was perfectly normal.)
Medical finally cleared: July
BI: Late August
GS-7 Application: Late August.

I've since been told that my file is in the scheduling office and I'll be getting a EOD within 30-60 days. It's been 35 days since I got that (give or take a minute). I keep trying to put it out of my mind, but ugh I just want this process to be over already.

So my first question is, do they inform you of your start date via phone or mail? I thought it was via phone but I see someone mentioned about getting a letter.

Just curious, thanks again to all the great info.

[qixfeet]

Hey all, I just wanted to finally post and say thanks to all the posters for answering questions. I've been lurking for most of the year but never had to post b/c most of the questions I had were already asked.

I took the test in Jan 07, scored like 93 or there abouts, but backed out of the process in summer 07 due to life events. I reapplied when they opened the position back up in the last quarter of 07.

Since then it went like this.

TO: January
Medical/PT: Early Feb
Drug test: Laste Feb
Started BI: March
Got flagged for a bs problem with my depth perception (their machine said I had almost none, my eye doc's exam said it was perfectly normal.)
Medical finally cleared: July
BI: Late August
GS-7 Application: Late August.

I've since been told that my file is in the scheduling office and I'll be getting a EOD within 30-60 days. It's been 35 days since I got that (give or take a minute). I keep trying to put it out of my mind, but ugh I just want this process to be over already.

So my first question is, do they inform you of your start date via phone or mail? I thought it was via phone but I see someone mentioned about getting a letter.

Just curious, thanks again to all the great info.

First you get your call and then you get your letter.

[fedpolice]

I have news people! Remember how I've been just waiting and waiting for the adjudicator to make my final decision for the last couple of weeks ( Since July 29th to be exact)? After the lady that suppose to go over my files has been telling me since then that she made her determination and that she turned my files over to her superior to make his/her final determination and that it has not been an update with it since she turned it over? Comes to find out today after I ask to speak with her supervisor, she told me that she never did make her final determination and she never told me she did. She still had my files there and that she sent me a letter of response about my credit and that I RELIED back to it. I told her I never received such a thing and she pulled out my files and we went over my debt. She told me you cannot pass $5,000 in old debt (meaning closed accounts). I was close by the mark. She told me she will pull up my credit report again to see the progress and give me a call back. She told me that my debt was cut in half from the amount she got before, which is good. She said now she has to review the notes from the BI and go from there. Funny enough I have credit monitoring and I receive alerts with changes on my report and I have not received an alert about my credit being pulled but im going to give it 24 hours to see if i receive it. So basically my files has been sitting up there since June. It sat there for a month before I have to call her and then she went and got my files. Now she gave me the run around and she still has it. IF YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING MORE THAN TWO MONTHS FOR YOUR BI TO CLEAR AND ITS AT INTERNAL AFFAIRS, YOU GUYS NEED TO GET ON THE BALL AND HANDLE IT! SOME OF THE ADJUDICATORS ARE SLACKERS! STAY ON TOP OF THINGS! THIS IS WHY PEOPLE HAVE TO KEEP CALLING IA BUGGING THEM CAUSE SITUATIONS LIKE THIS! AT THE RATE HOW THE PROCESS IS GOING, IT SHOULD NOT TAKE MORE THAN THE MAX TWO MONTHS, IF THAT MUCH!

Calm down, take a deep breath and...........welcome to the government hiring process!!!!

HOW DO YOU GET A HOLD OF IA??

Most applicants do not have that option unless there was something that IA felt was issue for suitability and they were issued a NOPA.

"AT THE RATE HOW THE PROCESS IS GOING, IT SHOULD NOT TAKE MORE THAN THE MAX TWO MONTHS, IF THAT MUCH!"

How do you know it shouldn't take longer than two months? People have been in this process for a lot longer. You have to remember that this is the government, which operates slowly. I do understand your frustration, I have been waiting A LOT longer. Just for FYI my first BI with the government took 9 months just to meet with the Investigator.

You hear several applicants backgrounds clearing quickly. The answer for that is an "interim clearance", which means they look good on paper only. As a result, they background is marked "complete" in CASS and they are sent on their way through the process.

I know it sucks, but honestly what's is the rush!!! It will happen if it is going to happen. One last note, if everyone was to take your advice and bug IA then all that does is slow them down even more. I am not trying to be insensitive, but realistic you are 1 applicant out of 1000's, what makes you special???

[Goosell]

[QUOTE=merlin436;1394198]OT= base pay x 2
Eve.diff.= base pay x 1.15
Night diff.= base pay x 1.20
Sun. diff.= base pay x 1.50
Holiday pay= 8 hours of base pay


What's the hours for evening diffential and for night differential?

Let's say that I'm a GS-7 making $17.64 per hour and I'm working the night shift (12am to 8am), does that mean that I'll be making $21.16 per hour (17.64 x 1.20)?

How much will I'll make then if I work on a Sunday night? What about if I work overtime on Sunday night or any day on the night shift?

I'm wondering the same thing

[yoda]

OK,
First for those who just started the whole process last month......
YOU GUYS NEED TO CHILL!... Check out my timeline then complaint if you have been waiting longer....:cool:
My last post I told you guys about my file apparently being in the pile since January, the lady told me they had sent me a NOPA recently, meaning maybe the week before....., I gave it a week since I spoke with her and nothing came in the mail. I called again today and I got the run around from her, telling me that sometimes they mark a letter sent days before they actually send it....lol...then she tells me that the system that had that information was down at the moment... bureaucracy is great :D gotta love it!

So in my case me calling IA began the ball rolling for me once again, but for you guys that have just met with your investigator, if six months go by with nothing from them then you need to worry...

Good luck to all of the new guys and gals in the process...
welcome to the waiting game ;)

[ladyta18]

Calm down, take a deep breath and...........welcome to the government hiring process!!!!

HOW DO YOU GET A HOLD OF IA??

Most applicants do not have that option unless there was something that IA felt was issue for suitability and they were issued a NOPA.

"AT THE RATE HOW THE PROCESS IS GOING, IT SHOULD NOT TAKE MORE THAN THE MAX TWO MONTHS, IF THAT MUCH!"

How do you know it shouldn't take longer than two months? People have been in this process for a lot longer. You have to remember that this is the government, which operates slowly. I do understand your frustration, I have been waiting A LOT longer. Just for FYI my first BI with the government took 9 months just to meet with the Investigator.

You hear several applicants backgrounds clearing quickly. The answer for that is an "interim clearance", which means they look good on paper only. As a result, they background is marked "complete" in CASS and they are sent on their way through the process.

I know it sucks, but honestly what's is the rush!!! It will happen if it is going to happen. One last note, if everyone was to take your advice and bug IA then all that does is slow them down even more. I am not trying to be insensitive, but realistic you are 1 applicant out of 1000's, what makes you special???

Since you want to put me out on blast, let me answer your questions. For your information, the people im talkin about DID NOT get an interim clearance. Down hear in Miami, we are in the expedited process. These people went thru their background investigation with their BI and their files was turned into internal affairs and received responses if anything was wrong and got there offer all within two months. And I did my BI before some of them. If you havent read what I posted that the lady gave me false information and gave me the run around. I didnt know that was apart of the GOVERNMENT HIRING PROCESS! And if you have been waiting that long they probably holding you up too. Any I have cowokers that did exceed the two months with their BI and found out either their papers was lost or they was being hold up due something in IA that has nothing to do with them. I guess you havent read the previous message about the guy who took the test when I did and when his BI was in IA he waited for 9 months and when he got ahold of them they told him that his files was just sitting in IA and was not touched because the person who was assigned to it was not there anymore. If you havent realized, the process is shorter now. So I'm not going to sit and wait for nothing and I know other members on this forum feel the same way. IM not saying Im special, Im bein realistic. So does that answer your inquiry? ;)

Tested: 08/07
TO: 03/08
Medical: 04/08 (Cleared)
Fitness: 04/08 (Cleared)
Qualifications: 05/08 GS-7 (Cleared)
Drug: 04/08 (Cleared)
Pre-employment Forms: 05/08 (Cleared)
VBT: 05/08 (Cleared)
BI: Met with BI 6/08 (Pending)

[tori]

I got the call also! I start On Sep 15 at Lax port..then its off to FLETC on OCT 13. Im so happy.

[yoda]

ladyta18:

The BI takes 3 to 6 months to go through, and that's from your meeting date with the investigator. I myself went through the expedited version of the process (actually we were the first group) and they told us that from test date to hire it would be 6 months, here I am a year later still waiting. Those that have been cleared in no time at all, some are interim and some are actually cleared because of who knows what.... Now we are all on the same boat, and we don't need to start a flaming war within the thread, I know this whole thing is very frustrating, especially when you've been waiting for as long as I have and you see people go from application to hire in 4 months!, but we all get different investigators and have very different backgrounds :D so the process is different for everyone. At this point after so long all you want is a YES or NO, and be done with the waiting game!...but alas it is what it is :o

I have let other opportunities slip by while waiting, and really need the job ASAP, if you are currently employed you should just chill IMO, the call will come in time unless like I said before, more than 6 months go by since your meeting and you have no word. The other thing I have read here that when you reply to a NOPA they take 3 to 6 weeks to make a determination... so I am waiting for my NOPA to arrive and then I'll have to wait for it go through to see if it's accepted :cool: awesome right???

good luck to all of you guys once again:D

[fedpolice]

ladyta18:

The BI takes 3 to 6 months to go through, and that's from your meeting date with the investigator. I myself went through the expedited version of the process (actually we were the first group) and they told us that from test date to hire it would be 6 months, here I am a year later still waiting. Those that have been cleared in no time at all, some are interim and some are actually cleared because of who knows what.... Now we are all on the same boat, and we don't need to start a flaming war within the thread, I know this whole thing is very frustrating, especially when you've been waiting for as long as I have and you see people go from application to hire in 4 months!, but we all get different investigators and have very different backgrounds :D so the process is different for everyone. At this point after so long all you want is a YES or NO, and be done with the waiting game!...but alas it is what it is :o

I have let other opportunities slip by while waiting, and really need the job ASAP, if you are currently employed you should just chill IMO, the call will come in time unless like I said before, more than 6 months go by since your meeting and you have no word. The other thing I have read here that when you reply to a NOPA they take 3 to 6 weeks to make a determination... so I am waiting for my NOPA to arrive and then I'll have to wait for it go through to see if it's accepted :cool: awesome right???

good luck to all of you guys once again:D


Hi Yoda,

I agree I am not going to debate the process with lady18. I want this job just as bad as anyone else. I agree each applicant's process is different. I did not have the opportunity of an expedited hiring process. Yoda, If you don't mind me asking, it has been around 7 months since I met with my BI. How did you make contact with IA? I hope my file did not get lost or set aside, but after reading what lady18 posted she might be right.

[tori]

Hi Yoda,

I agree I am not going to debate the process with lady18. I want this job just as bad as anyone else. I agree each applicant's process is different. I did not have the opportunity of an expedited hiring process. Yoda, If you don't mind me asking, it has been around 7 months since I met with my BI. How did you make contact with IA? I hope my file did not get lost or set aside, but after reading what lady18 posted she might be right.

Fed police I was in your shoes.. I called my background investigator and asked him if there was anything I could do to expedite my BI? or where there any questions to my BI that I could help with? He told me everything looked good and he had sent my BI to the security office this was back in the beginning of march. IT took 7 months for them to call me. I had just been hired to an awesome job..who I just gave my two week notice to. They WILL CALL YOU...unless theres something really bad in your background or you have horrible credit. :)

[Goosell]

I got the call also! I start On Sep 15 at Lax port..then its off to FLETC on OCT 13. Im so happy.

congrats........ do you start fletc on oct 13th or is that when you are traveling?? Because for me Oct. 16th is the day i start FLETC. I think she said i was class 905 or something i think we will probably be in the same class

[mtlvs]

Hello everyone! I am new to the process from Los Angeles, CA. Anyone else from LA?

Here's my timeline:
CBPO
TESTED: 07/21/08
NOR: Score 82 (no vet points) 07/29/08
TO: 08/04/08
PRE-EMPLOYMENT FORMS - Pending, but sent them out 08/13/08
MEDICAL - Results Pending, but took it on 09/02/08 (going to get TB read 09/04/08)
FITNESS - Results Pending, but took it on 09/02/08
VBT - going to attend 09/04/08 at LAX
QUALS - pending
DRUG TEST - pending
BI - pending

Anyone else on the same boat as me?

[fedpolice]

Fed police I was in your shoes.. I called my background investigator and asked him if there was anything I could do to expedite my BI? or where there any questions to my BI that I could help with? He told me everything looked good and he had sent my BI to the security office this was back in the beginning of march. IT took 7 months for them to call me. I had just been hired to an awesome job..who I just gave my two week notice to. They WILL CALL YOU...unless theres something really bad in your background or you have horrible credit. :)

Thanks tori. Hopefully, the same will happen to me : )

[hitthelights]

Hello all,

I recently just joined the forums here, and everyone’s information has been quiet helpful! As per CBP officer, I was referred to the scheduling unit on July 14th, 2008. My selected location was Newark, NJ. I took my test back in November of 2007...went through the process since than, not sure the exact dates of all my tests and background check. The scheduling unit informed me there are no current openings at this moment? Has anyone else applied to this location, or is currently training for it?

Thanks!

[Barbrady]

So can some one confirm, Miami needs people badly? If so, is it because of the Spanish course requirement?

[merlin436]

[QUOTE=merlin436;1394198]OT= base pay x 2
Eve.diff.= base pay x 1.15
Night diff.= base pay x 1.20
Sun. diff.= base pay x 1.50
Holiday pay= 8 hours of base pay


What's the hours for evening diffential and for night differential?

Evening diff. = majority of work hours between 1500 and 2300

Night diff. = majority of work hours between 2300 and 0800

It's a bit more complicated than that in real life, but that covers about 95% of it.



Let's say that I'm a GS-7 making $17.64 per hour and I'm working the night shift (12am to 8am), does that mean that I'll be making $21.16 per hour (17.64 x 1.20)?

Yes.

How much will I'll make then if I work on a Sunday night? 1.5X base pay What about if I work overtime on Sunday night(2X base pay) or any day on the night shift?2X base pay

If you work a shift that has 2 or more possible premium pay differentials you'll only receive the largest possible applicable differential.(Exceptions apply here too)

[Hound77]

Hello all,

I recently just joined the forums here, and everyone’s information has been quiet helpful! As per CBP officer, I was referred to the scheduling unit on July 14th, 2008. My selected location was Newark, NJ. I took my test back in November of 2007...went through the process since than, not sure the exact dates of all my tests and background check. The scheduling unit informed me there are no current openings at this moment? Has anyone else applied to this location, or is currently training for it?

Thanks!

I'm waiting for EWR as well. Damn the date I was sent to scheduling was two weeks after you. Way to put a damper on my day, hah.

[barnaj]

I'm waiting for EWR as well. Damn the date I was sent to scheduling was two weeks after you. Way to put a damper on my day, hah.

Well check it out, you are actually in a great spot. While others are worried about "if", you just got to wonder "when". You'll get a call eventually, its just a matter of when a spot opens. Its a tough thing to do but just try and live your life and one day the phone will ring and it'll be your job offer. Just hope it isnt so long that your pre-employment processes dont start expiring!

[shawal16]

[QUOTE=Gabbanelli911;1394505]

If you work a shift that has 2 or more possible premium pay differentials you'll only receive the largest possible applicable differential.(Exceptions apply here too)

So that means if your drafted or decide willingly to work OT on a Sunday... you will lose out on the premium Sun pay because you are receiving the OT rate?

[Hound77]

Well check it out, you are actually in a great spot. While others are worried about "if", you just got to wonder "when". You'll get a call eventually, its just a matter of when a spot opens. Its a tough thing to do but just try and live your life and one day the phone will ring and it'll be your job offer. Just hope it isnt so long that your pre-employment processes dont start expiring!

Yeah I've actually gotten into a rhythm where I successfully ignore it and put it out of my mind for 5-10 days, then I have 2-3 days of sitting at work constantly thinking "will they just f-ing call already" then I slip back into my mellow state.

I figure Newark Seaport + EWR are so large that they have to have a decent amount of turn over, so it can't go on too long. That's what I keep telling myself anyways, heh.

[barnaj]

Yeah I've actually gotten into a rhythm where I successfully ignore it and put it out of my mind for 5-10 days, then I have 2-3 days of sitting at work constantly thinking "will they just f-ing call already" then I slip back into my mellow state.

I figure Newark Seaport + EWR are so large that they have to have a decent amount of turn over, so it can't go on too long. That's what I keep telling myself anyways, heh.

Yeah you will be there before you know it. Anything worth having is worth waitiing for. At least that's the b.s. thats always written on Hallmark cards! Hopefully they'll get on the horn and call you soon. Good luck!

[shawal16]

Yeah I've actually gotten into a rhythm where I successfully ignore it and put it out of my mind for 5-10 days, then I have 2-3 days of sitting at work constantly thinking "will they just f-ing call already" then I slip back into my mellow state.

I figure Newark Seaport + EWR are so large that they have to have a decent amount of turn over, so it can't go on too long. That's what I keep telling myself anyways, heh.

The delay with Newark isn't that they do not have available spots, the problem is funding. Once the new fiscal year starts I expect all those EWR TSU will receive the call.

[barnaj]

Well my quals updated via cass hotline. Just waitin on BI again.

Applied: July 24, 2008
T.O. : August 5, 2008 (michigan)
Med, phys, vbt, drug test: August 2008
Quals: September 4, 2008
BI: Pending

[shawal16]

Well my quals updated via cass hotline. Just waitin on BI again.

Applied: July 24, 2007
T.O. : August 5, 2007 (michigan)
Med, phys, vbt, drug test: August 2007
Quals: September 4, 2007
BI: Pending

Is your time line supposed to reflect 2008?

[nordy racer]

Hello everyone! I am new to the process from Los Angeles, CA. Anyone else from LA?

Here's my timeline:
CBPO
TESTED: 07/21/08
NOR: Score 82 (no vet points) 07/29/08
TO: 08/04/08
PRE-EMPLOYMENT FORMS - Pending, but sent them out 08/13/08
MEDICAL - Results Pending, but took it on 09/02/08 (going to get TB read 09/04/08)
FITNESS - Results Pending, but took it on 09/02/08
VBT - going to attend 09/04/08 at LAX
QUALS - pending
DRUG TEST - pending
BI - pending

Anyone else on the same boat as me?

well this gives me hope on my score being ok :) LAX or Port..

test: 8/16/08
NOR: a 81% (no vet points) 8/26/08
TO: nothing yet..

[twiy2008]

I'm new to this process. Just joined the waiting game. Anybody out there from Michigan got any word on what score they have reached. I have not recieved a TO yet.


TESTED: 8/5/08
NOR :87 no vet points 8/12/08

[barnaj]

Is your time line supposed to reflect 2008?

Oh yeah, it is 2008 isnt it? Thanks, what the heck was i thinking? I write my checks for my bills like that too!!

[shawal16]

I'm new to this process. Just joined the waiting game. Anybody out there from Michigan got any word on what score they have reached. I have not recieved a TO yet.


TESTED: 8/5/08
NOR :87 no vet points 8/12/08

I'm pretty sure they haven't pulled TO's since you've received your score. They usually issues TO's within 90 days of the test. I would predict new TO's being pulled in Oct. Just my prediction.

[Hound77]

I remember reading that FLETC had gone to six day weeks, is that still going on? I sure wouldn't mind that overtime starting out.

[grullj]

When the BI pulls up your credit report, what does it appear as on the inquiries in your credit report?

[imlikeaninja]

Hey guys long time lurker first time poster. I tested on Sept 18th in Philly,Geo preference NYC and got my NOR a couple of weeks ago (90 no extra points).I was just wondering if anyone knows what the physical is like all I was able to find was the kneeling lifting step thing they have on the CBP website. That cant be all there is to it is it? I'm a little out of shape as my current job mainly involves sitting at a computer so I'm training using the FBI requirements/point system just in case.

[barnaj]

When the BI pulls up your credit report, what does it appear as on the inquiries in your credit report?

Yes it does, it'll show up as CBP (something else too) -possible employment.
Also, "Hound" im not sure if FLETC is 6 days still or not. I'll tell ya when i went the first time it was 5 days a week and i really think id blow my brains out if we only had sundays off, overtime or not. Having that weeknd off to get drunk and blow off steam plus go shopping, do laundry, etc. really is nice

[barnaj]

Hey guys long time lurker first time poster. I tested on Sept 18th in Philly,Geo preference NYC and got my NOR a couple of weeks ago (90 no extra points).I was just wondering if anyone knows what the physical is like all I was able to find was the kneeling lifting step thing they have on the CBP website. That cant be all there is to it is it? I'm a little out of shape as my current job mainly involves sitting at a computer so I'm training using the FBI requirements/point system just in case.

Yeah thats it, but its not as easy as you may think. Im in pretty good shape and if your not somewhat fit, that 5 minute step to the porno music will knock the wind out of your sails!

[hitthelights]

I'm waiting for EWR as well. Damn the date I was sent to scheduling was two weeks after you. Way to put a damper on my day, hah.

I apologize...well hopefully we get the call the same time, so we can go through this together!

[grullj]

Thanks for the reply Barnaj,

Also, does anyone currently at FLETC know what the holiday schedule looks like this year, since Thanksgiving and Christmas fall on Thursdays? Would they give you Friday off also?

[shawal16]

I remember reading that FLETC had gone to six day weeks, is that still going on? I sure wouldn't mind that overtime starting out.

From what I've heard FLETC is 5 days. The last time it was 6 days it became a huge hassle for the instructors/students, and also was very expensive for the Agency.

When the BI pulls up your credit report, what does it appear as on the inquiries in your credit report?

I have True Credit and it appeared as "US Customs".

Hey guys long time lurker first time poster. I tested on Sept 18th in Philly,Geo preference NYC and got my NOR a couple of weeks ago (90 no extra points).I was just wondering if anyone knows what the physical is like all I was able to find was the kneeling lifting step thing they have on the CBP website. That cant be all there is to it is it? I'm a little out of shape as my current job mainly involves sitting at a computer so I'm training using the FBI requirements/point system just in case.

You can't be over prepared for the Fitness Test. However the FBI requirements may be a little much. I recommend practicing the step test. I'm in decent shape and at about the 4th minute my thighs felt like they were on fire. Practicing the step test will get your legs used to the repetitive nature of the ups and downs for the step test. I would also recommend practicing listening to the kneel/stand directions. Just so you'll be familiarized with it.

[CUJEN]

Hello All! I am new to the process as well but from San Diego. Here's my timeline:

CBPO
TESTED: 07/21/08
NOR: 07/28/08 Score: 85 no vet pts
TO: 08/04/08
PRE-EMPLOYMENT FORMS - Pending, but sent them out 08/18/08
MEDICAL - Results Pending, but took it on 09/03/08
FITNESS - Results Pending, but took it on 09/03/08
VBT - 09/04/08
QUALS - pending
DRUG TEST - Results Pending, but took on 09/03/08
BI - pending

Everything seems to be going smooth and timely, I hope it continues....

[barnaj]

Hello All! I am new to the process as well but from San Diego. Here's my timeline:

CBPO
TESTED: 07/21/08
NOR: 07/28/08 Score: 85 no vet pts
TO: 08/04/08
PRE-EMPLOYMENT FORMS - Pending, but sent them out 08/18/08
MEDICAL - Results Pending, but took it on 09/03/08
FITNESS - Results Pending, but took it on 09/03/08
VBT - 09/04/08
QUALS - pending
DRUG TEST - Results Pending, but took on 09/03/08
BI - pending

Everything seems to be going smooth and timely, I hope it continues....

So did you have your VBT today already or is it later? Good luck with that, it's akward but a piece of cake otherwise.

[CUJEN]

barnaj-

It is @ 2:30, not sure what to think. I am not nervous yet....

[shawal16]

So did you have your VBT today already or is it later? Good luck with that, it's akward but a piece of cake otherwise.


I second that. I thought I failed, and I passed. I haven't heard of many ppl failing to the VBT as long as you treat it as an interview. Dress and act as if you were going to an interview for Corporate America. The FTO that administered the test also graded my test.

[barnaj]

barnaj-

It is @ 2:30, not sure what to think. I am not nervous yet....

The nerves will get you when you stand in front of the video camera with the tape recorder strapped to your waist!! It's pretty odd, but ifyou ask me, much better than sitting in front of 2 or 3 people answering questions.

[DD214]

Just throwing this question out there again: Is anyone out there a CBPO in the Buffalo/Niagara area who knows what kind of openings there are at the bridges/airports?

[CUJEN]

The nerves will get you when you stand in front of the video camera with the tape recorder strapped to your waist!! It's pretty odd, but ifyou ask me, much better than sitting in front of 2 or 3 people answering questions.

Oh Yeah, I am sure that will get my nerves going. hm...tape recorder strapped to my waist, everyone I have spoke to must have conveniently left that part out :o

I am currently employed in good ol' Corporate America and have been interviewed and promoted through interviews....hopefully it will go well.

[CUJEN]

I second that. I thought I failed, and I passed. I haven't heard of many ppl failing to the VBT as long as you treat it as an interview. Dress and act as if you were going to an interview for Corporate America. The FTO that administered the test also graded my test.

Did you get your results the day of your test?

[merlin436]

[QUOTE=merlin436;1395146]

So that means if your drafted or decide willingly to work OT on a Sunday... you will lose out on the premium Sun pay because you are receiving the OT rate?

Well, yeah...if that's how you chose to look at it.

You'd 'lose' your base pay x 1.5 Sun. premium for base pay x 2 overtime premium.

[barnaj]

Did you get your results the day of your test?

I dont know about shawal16, but i didnt. Took about a week to get my results. Seriously, just dont say or do anything ridiculous or boneheaded for a half hour and it'll be over and you'll pass.

[CUJEN]

I dont know about shawal16, but i didnt. Took about a week to get my results. Seriously, just dont say or do anything ridiculous or boneheaded for a half hour and it'll be over and you'll pass.

Thanks I will try to refrain from embarrassing myself ;)

[shawal16]

Did you get your results the day of your test?

Nope, he said he was going to grade it later that day. The results were posted on the hot line within a week and a half.

[cargo82]

so is anyone else applying in miami? Like a month ago everything was cleared in cass except for my medical which I sent in the additional required info a month ago. Has anyone had to send in additional medical info? If so how long did it take to clear?

[tori]

congrats........ do you start fletc on oct 13th or is that when you are traveling?? Because for me Oct. 16th is the day i start FLETC. I think she said i was class 905 or something i think we will probably be in the same class

hey...we are in the same class. Im in 905 also. I messed up I thought my start date was on the 13th but its not. Its on the 16th. I had to check my letter again. woah thats cool. congratulations!

[Goosell]

hey...we are in the same class. Im in 905 also. I messed up I thought my start date was on the 13th but its not. Its on the 16th. I had to check my letter again. woah thats cool. congratulations!

Congrats to you too

[shopshop]

A bit off topic but utterly important, well to me anyways. Does anyone know anything medical waivers for the hearing portion of the medical test? I have a hearing loss and want to have my ducks in a row if I need a waiver or qualify for one. Any info on where to find information on waivers, what qualifies and so forth is much appreciated.

Did you find out any information about your situation, I also had some trouble of passing 4k-6k high pitch sound, I re-done the test again, it also turned out the same, I had allready sent my result, whose know what come next.

[Goosell]

i am in class 905 oct 16- feb 5

Awesome ill see you there congrats.

Tori is in 905 too

[imlikeaninja]

Ok lets pretend some of us have no Idea what is involved in the VBT. Can someone who has been through it explain exactly what it is.

[JRizEJ6]

new guy here checking in. i tested back in july and got my results in august. I passed with an 82. its pretty low and not as high as i would like to have scored but that math section killed me. has anyone gotten their NOR with a similar score? Anyway ive been lurking for the past few months and it took a really long time for the admins to verify my account so i could start posting. I selected San Diego as my location and if anyone has any info on the hiring status in the area or if you know anyone whose been recently selected for San Diego please feel free to share.

Well ill be checking in here often and just wanted to drop by and introduce myself. cheers :)

[Justin03]

I got a TO for Maine with a 76.

[audi0xpl0de]

I got a TO for Maine with a 76.

Recently? When did you test? I'm still waiting myself.

[audi0xpl0de]

Ok lets pretend some of us have no Idea what is involved in the VBT. Can someone who has been through it explain exactly what it is.

No one should go into great detail about it as they signed agreements not to. Look on their website for a good description of what it entails.

[imlikeaninja]

No one should go into great detail about it as they signed agreements not to. Look on their website for a good description of what it entails.

understood.

[Rolygsx]

Hello all,

I tested on August 15th in philly. I got my NOR one week later(88 no vet). I didn't notice that when i applied that the geographic location i chose by mistake was NY-and all other locations. I live in New York City and i do not want to work upstate, So i was sent a form by email to print and fill out with the location i preffered.So i then faxed the form over to change my geographic location to NYC-JFK Airport.

I have 2 questions. How long does it usually take to get another NOR when you change your geographic location? and does anyone know what the demand for CBPO's are in the NYC area?


Thanks alot.


Ro

[shawal16]

Hello all,

I tested on August 15th in philly. I got my NOR one week later(88 no vet). I didn't notice that when i applied that the geographic location i chose by mistake was NY-and all other locations. I live in New York City and i do not want to work upstate, So i was sent a form by email to print and fill out with the location i preffered.So i then faxed the form over to change my geographic location to NYC-JFK Airport.

I have 2 questions. How long does it usually take to get another NOR when you change your geographic location? and does anyone know what the demand for CBPO's are in the NYC area?


Thanks alot.


Ro

I used the email that was provided. It usually took less than a day.

[Rolygsx]

I used the email that was provided. It usually took less than a day.

You emailed the form back to them? and then recieved an email notifying your change in less then a day?

If so, I think i will email them back also. I sent my fax more then a week ago and i am hoping they recieved it.

[imlikeaninja]

hold on a sec just noticed my NOR says NY all other locations,NY when I wanted NY JFK.who did you guys e mail to correct it?

[JRizEJ6]

its on your NOR.
fax 612-727-2225
email deu.cbpo.nhc@dhs.gov with the heading "Attn: REX-CBPO"

they responded in less than a day and i was emailed a new NOR that same day.

[Rolygsx]

its on your NOR.
fax 612-727-2225
email deu.cbpo.nhc@dhs.gov with the heading "Attn: REX-CBPO"

they responded in less than a day and i was emailed a new NOR that same day.


I'm going to email it back to them also. I tried to fax it but i still have not recieved an email or letter with my new Geo. location.

Thanks for the info.

Ro

[sap123]

I'm going to email it back to them also. I tried to fax it but i still have not recieved an email or letter with my new Geo. location.

Thanks for the info.

Ro

Be patient. I changed my Geo pref and it took a couple of days for them to get back to me, but they just sent another NOR via email with my desired changes. It will work out.

[Rolygsx]

Be patient. I changed my Geo pref and it took a couple of days for them to get back to me, but they just sent another NOR via email with my desired changes. It will work out.

It's been over a week.

[Justin03]

Recently? When did you test? I'm still waiting myself.

I tested in March and got my TO at the end of June.

[LASD_or_BUST]

So I'm taking the 4hr EXAM on Sept. 22 at the Ontario Convention Center, is anyone else going as well?

Also.. how is the ALT part of the test. I keep hearing that it is very difficult, anyone have any tips or tricks...

-T

[tori]

So I'm taking the 4hr EXAM on Sept. 22 at the Ontario Convention Center, is anyone else going as well?

Also.. how is the ALT part of the test. I keep hearing that it is very difficult, anyone have any tips or tricks...

-T

4 hours it felt like 5....But to answer your question yes the ALT part is hard if you dont study. Make sure you study it will help you a lot!

[shawal16]

So I'm taking the 4hr EXAM on Sept. 22 at the Ontario Convention Center, is anyone else going as well?

Also.. how is the ALT part of the test. I keep hearing that it is very difficult, anyone have any tips or tricks...

-T

ALT...Sounds like BPA

[imlikeaninja]

Yeah I just tested on 8/18 and there was no ALT.I was told the language part is just for Border Patrol which sucks for me cause I'm fluent in spanish.

ALT...Sounds like BPA

[shawal16]

Yeah I just tested on 8/18 and there was no ALT.I was told the language part is just for Border Patrol which sucks for me cause I'm fluent in spanish.

If your equally good in Math, it shouldn't have been a problem. Both CBPO and BPA have pro's and con's to the job. However, as a CBPO you won't have to relocate to an obscure border town.

[vic1218]

Hey guys,

I tested back on August 1st and received my NOR about a week later with a rating of 90 with no Vet points for the Michigan area. Has anybody else tested recently for Michigan and received a TO?

[barnaj]

Yeah I just tested on 8/18 and there was no ALT.I was told the language part is just for Border Patrol which sucks for me cause I'm fluent in spanish.

well being fluent wont suck if you chose a southern location. You wont have to stay at FLETC an extra 6 weeks for spanish training.

[barnaj]

Hey guys,

I tested back on August 1st and received my NOR about a week later with a rating of 90 with no Vet points for the Michigan area. Has anybody else tested recently for Michigan and received a TO?

Applied for Michigan on July 24 and got a t.o. on August 6. Scored a 90 on the test. Im a veteran but didnt meet the standars for vet points.

[Barbrady]

well being fluent wont suck if you chose a southern location. You wont have to stay at FLETC an extra 6 weeks for spanish training.

Six weeks?? Can you really learn Spanish in six weeks? That Spanish course must be demanding? Does a lot of people fail? If so, what happens then?

[vic1218]

I sent an email to the hiring center and just got a response saying that they still haven't sent out TO's for Michigan. Hopefully they will soon though!

[shawal16]

Six weeks?? Can you really learn Spanish in six weeks? That Spanish course must be demanding? Does a lot of people fail? If so, what happens then?

After the course, its highly unlikely you will be fluent in Spanish. They hope that you will leave atleast have learned the basic composition of Spanish.

[barnaj]

I sent an email to the hiring center and just got a response saying that they still haven't sent out TO's for Michigan. Hopefully they will soon though!

Well whenever they send out the next round of t.o.'s, you should get one right quick. 90 is usually a score that will get you a first round t.o.
Not to be confused with a first round t.k.o.

[vic1218]

Well whenever they send out the next round of t.o.'s, you should get one right quick. 90 is usually a score that will get you a first round t.o.
Not to be confused with a first round t.k.o.

LOL, yeah I hope so. When I applied they listed Michigan as a critical need area and the process would move along faster than the other areas so hopefully that's the case.

[barnaj]

LOL, yeah I hope so. When I applied they listed Michigan as a critical need area and the process would move along faster than the other areas so hopefully that's the case.

Yeah well like i said i got my t.o. with a 90 in less than two weeks. The first time i applied with the same score it took like 7 months to get one. So things must be moving a little faster for Michigan right now. Im suprised you didnt go for chicago o'hare. I know like 10 CBPO's who are there.

[vic1218]

Yeah well like i said i got my t.o. with a 90 in less than two weeks. The first time i applied with the same score it took like 7 months to get one. So things must be moving a little faster for Michigan right now. Im suprised you didnt go for chicago o'hare. I know like 10 CBPO's who are there.

I didn't put in for O'hare because it wasn't a critical need area like Michigan. So I put in for the closest location. I just went to get out of TSA as quickly as possible.

[shawal16]

Is it possible or beneficial to call the security center even though I haven't met with an investigator? I received a TO in May, the way time lines been going I expected to met with the investigator in Aug. It's now Sept and nothing. I'm just afraid that they may be waiting on something for me. I noticed they started sending NOPA's out before the investigation. I also noticed that you will not be interviewed until the NOPA is cleared. Is it likely that I received a NOPA but never physically received it?

[twiy2008]

To Vic1218:

I also tested for Michigan on Aug 5th; I got a 87 with no vet points.
But, I have not yet recieved a TO. Please post again when get yours. And I'll do the same.

[vic1218]

To Vic1218:

I also tested for Michigan on Aug 5th; I got a 87 with no vet points.
But, I have not yet recieved a TO. Please post again when get yours. And I'll do the same.

Will do!

[imlikeaninja]

Ok so this morning I emailed to correct my geo preference (wanted JFK but my NOR says NY other) and the nice lady at the hiring office told me that when I applied JFK was not option even though I applied through USAJobs and was responding specifically to a vacancy for JFK.

"Vacancy Ann.#: CBPO 08-03
Who May Apply: Public
Pay Plan: GS-1895-05/07
Appointment Term: Permanent
Job Status: Full-Time
Opening Date: 6/30/2008
Salary: From 29,726.00 to 47,864.00 USD per year

Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection US-NY-New York City and JFK Airport 29,726.00+ "

So basically I'm waiting for a TO for a job that in all likelihood I wont be able to accept just so I can turn it down and go back to the bottom of the list. Rolygsx did you have the same problem or did they fix it for you? I dont mind commuting a little longer but I have a family that I cant relocate right noe even if I wanted to. What should I do I was really got my hopes up and am a bit discouraged right now.

Hello all,

I tested on August 15th in philly. I got my NOR one week later(88 no vet). I didn't notice that when i applied that the geographic location i chose by mistake was NY-and all other locations. I live in New York City and i do not want to work upstate, So i was sent a form by email to print and fill out with the location i preffered.So i then faxed the form over to change my geographic location to NYC-JFK Airport.

I have 2 questions. How long does it usually take to get another NOR when you change your geographic location? and does anyone know what the demand for CBPO's are in the NYC area?


Thanks alot.


Ro

[imlikeaninja]

Also does anyone have any Idea what they mean by NY(all other locations) All the DHS lady could tell me was that it was NY but not NYC or Buffalo. Do they have ports anywhere in Westchester or Long Island?

[barnaj]

Also does anyone have any Idea what they mean by NY(all other locations) All the DHS lady could tell me was that it was NY but not NYC or Buffalo. Do they have ports anywhere in Westchester or Long Island?

check this list of land border crossings:

http://apps.cbp.gov/bwt/

[merlin436]

However, as a CBPO you won't have to relocate to an obscure border town.

Well, maybe...maybe not.

Virtually every location where there's a need for BP Agents there is also a need for CBP Officers.
Along the northern border at least, there's likely more CBPO's in obscure border towns than BPA's.

[Hound77]

Ok so this morning I emailed to correct my geo preference (wanted JFK but my NOR says NY other) and the nice lady at the hiring office told me that when I applied JFK was not option even though I applied through USAJobs and was responding specifically to a vacancy for JFK.

"Vacancy Ann.#: CBPO 08-03
Who May Apply: Public
Pay Plan: GS-1895-05/07
Appointment Term: Permanent
Job Status: Full-Time
Opening Date: 6/30/2008
Salary: From 29,726.00 to 47,864.00 USD per year

Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection US-NY-New York City and JFK Airport 29,726.00+ "

So basically I'm waiting for a TO for a job that in all likelihood I wont be able to accept just so I can turn it down and go back to the bottom of the list. Rolygsx did you have the same problem or did they fix it for you? I dont mind commuting a little longer but I have a family that I cant relocate right noe even if I wanted to. What should I do I was really got my hopes up and am a bit discouraged right now.

Is Newark an option? I know the commute would be hell if you're coming from LI, but otherwise it might be workable.

[DaBonk112]

Did anyone apply or receive a TO for Hawaii? My score seems to be high enough (94), but I don't know if there are many vacancies.

[Hound77]

check this list of land border crossings:

http://apps.cbp.gov/bwt/

If I'm not mistaken Newark and JFK cover all the downstate airports like Stewart and that one out on Long Island. I work in the maritime industry and I can't think of another port outside of NY/NJ... well there are some small bulk ports down the NJ coast but I'd be amazed if they had their own dedicated CBPO contingents.

I'm guessing it's gotta be up on the northern border.

[merlin436]

LOL, yeah I hope so. When I applied they listed Michigan as a critical need area and the process would move along faster than the other areas so hopefully that's the case.


You do realize that with the possible exception of being issued a TO sooner, the processes of hiring on in a 'critical need area' are going to go no faster than applications for anywhere else?

[shawal16]

Imlikeaninja,

Below are the choices for ports:

234 - New York City/JFK Airport, NY

263 - New York-Buffalo (includes but not limited to Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse)

264 - New York-All Other Locations (includes but not limited to Albany, Alexandria Bay, Champlain, and Ogdensburg)

Did you ask to work in New York City or JFK? I would try again and ask to change your preference to "New York City", and see what happens. I would recommend trying this email... deu.cbpo.nhc@dhs.gov

You may not be able to change your preference because when you applied the vacancy was only open for certain locations.

[barnaj]

Imlikeaninja,

Below are the choices for ports:

234 - New York City/JFK Airport, NY

263 - New York-Buffalo (includes but not limited to Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse)

264 - New York-All Other Locations (includes but not limited to Albany, Alexandria Bay, Champlain, and Ogdensburg)

Did you ask to work in New York City or JFK? I would try again and ask to change your preference to "New York City", and see what happens. I would recommend trying this email... deu.cbpo.nhc@dhs.gov

You may not be able to change your preference because when you applied the vacancy was only open for certain locations.

Facilities And Crossings
Name: Buffalo/Niagara International Airport
Phone: (716) 632-4727
Operational Hours: 8:00 AM-4:00 PM(Eastern)
Saturday
8:00 AM-4:00 PM(Eastern)
Sunday
8:00 AM-5:00 PM(Eastern)
Weekdays (Monday-Friday)


Name: Lewiston Bridge Complex
Phone: (716) 282-1500
Operational Hours: Twenty Four (24) Hours A Day
Seven Days A Week (7)


Name: Niagara Falls Airport
Phone: (716) 282-1400
Operational Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM(Eastern)
Seven Days A Week (7)


Name: Peace Bridge
Phone: (716) 881-5225
Operational Hours: Twenty Four (24) Hours A Day
Seven Days A Week (7)


Name: Rainbow Bridge
Phone: (716) 284-5174
Operational Hours: Twenty Four (24) Hours A Day
Seven Days A Week (7)


Name: Whirlpool Bridge
Phone: (716) 278-0200
Operational Hours: 7:00 AM-11:00 PM(Eastern)
Seven Days A Week (7)

[merlin436]

NY-all other locations will most likely put you in A-Bay or Champlain.

[ifoCBP]

If you really want this job you should apply to a airport or port with "many vacancies" If you apply to one of the cities with "few vacancies" you will be waiting a long time. Some airports and ports post "critical need" that's your best chance of being hired. You have to be willing to move if you really want to get in. Atleast that's my experience here in Ca. When the CBP position opens up here they post for all cities, however, Some smaller cities like Sacramento or Fresno are hiring 1-2 officers while cities along the southern Border, L.A. area and San Francisco are hiring 40-60 officers (give or take) I am not sure if this applies to the rest of the country. Here in Ca, people really want the smaller city, but 100's of people are applying for one or two positions. Better chance with the bigger city.

[barnaj]

Did you get your results the day of your test?

Well, how did your VBT go?

[Scorp58]

Does anybody know the locations for the East TX GEO

[merlin436]

"Critical needs" is more or less a crap shoot as well.
Critical needs has always been more about the hiring center's need for more applications for various locations than for any real world need to fill particular job openings.

[barnaj]

Does anybody know the locations for the East TX GEO

http://apps.cbp.gov/bwt/

[ifoCBP]

"Critical needs" is more or less a crap shoot as well.
Critical needs has always been more about the hiring center's need for more applications for various locations than for any real world need to fill particular job openings.

I didn't know that. What I do know if that Calexico, L.A. , Long Beach, San Francisco, are always hiring. Also, the hiring process for these cities are much shorter (around 6 months) However, these same cities can't keep people. They are always hiring because people are always leaving.

[yoda]

I didn't know that. What I do know if that Calexico, L.A. , Long Beach, San Francisco, are always hiring. Also, the hiring process for these cities are much shorter (around 6 months) However, these same cities can't keep people. They are always hiring because people are always leaving.

I've been in the process for a year now.... LA/Long Beach... and have seen a couple of other people here that tested at the same time I did take almost a year!... So, as to how many people they were looking for in these ports it was 100 for LAX and 50 for Long Beach (that was Sept. 07'). Maybe the other way around though...lol... it's been a freaking year already can't really remember that detail... But, I do know they were looking for 150 people to fill the spots.
:cool:

[CUJEN]

Well, how did your VBT go?

Oh very interesting! I got the hang of it after the first two scenarios, but seriously the beginning was very nerve racking I wasn't sure what to expect.

The officers afterwards said that "it sounds like you used good judgment", I am keeping my fingers crossed that I passed.

:cool:

[Scorp58]

Thanks barnaj but it only shows the border locations., I know East TX covers Houston, Galveston, but I was wondering what other locations are included.

[barnaj]

Thanks barnaj but it only shows the border locations., I know East TX covers Houston, Galveston, but I was wondering what other locations are included.

Oh i thought it should every Mexico/Texas border locale. Not sure what you are looking for.

[barnaj]

Oh very interesting! I got the hang of it after the first two scenarios, but seriously the beginning was very nerve racking I wasn't sure what to expect.

The officers afterwards said that "it sounds like you used good judgment", I am keeping my fingers crossed that I passed.

:cool:

Your fine, thats all they are looking for is good and mature judgement. I think avoiding pointing your finger like a gun and saying "bang" is pretty much all it takes to pass!

[williamssd]

Well, I got the "call" today (actually, I called TSU inquiring about how soon they'd call because I'm supposed to be in a wedding... lady stated I was the second file on her desk and offered me the job).

I get to choose from Piegan, Sweetgrass, or Raymond (Montana). I'm leaning towards Piegan because I like the outdoors. Anyone in Montana have any opinions?

Everyone... keep you heads up. The lady at TSU seemed very busy so I'm guessing they are calling people as fast as they can get them into an academy slot.

- Steve

[imlikeaninja]

Imlikeaninja,

Below are the choices for ports:

234 - New York City/JFK Airport, NY

263 - New York-Buffalo (includes but not limited to Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse)

264 - New York-All Other Locations (includes but not limited to Albany, Alexandria Bay, Champlain, and Ogdensburg)

Did you ask to work in New York City or JFK? I would try again and ask to change your preference to "New York City", and see what happens. I would recommend trying this email... deu.cbpo.nhc@dhs.gov

You may not be able to change your preference because when you applied the vacancy was only open for certain locations.

Tried that already e mailed them this morning but the lady told me that when I applied NY/JFK was not an option even though the vacancy announcement I was responding to was specifically for JFK. I wouldn't have applied otherwise relocating my family is not an option at this point. I live in Queens (5 mins from JFK) but am open to commuting further within reason. I am open to Newark but its currently not an option either. Its just really frustrating because i was looking forward to this but I guess this is the end of the road for me. If all they can offer me is upstate (4-10 hrs away) then I may as well withdraw my application and leave a spot open for someone else.

P.S. here is the vacancy announcement I responded to from usajobs.gov applied 8/1 tested 8/18

Vacancy Ann.#: CBPO 08-03
Who May Apply: Public
Pay Plan: GS-1895-05/07
Appointment Term: Permanent
Job Status: Full-Time
Opening Date: 6/30/2008
Salary: From 29,726.00 to 47,864.00 USD per year

Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection US-NY-New York City and JFK Airport 29,726.00+

P.P.S. Here are my only options to change my geo preference right now(don't understand why they cant just put me on the bottom of the list for JFK)

Arizona, Maine, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, East Texas, California (San Francisco/Oakland), California (Los Angeles/Long Beach), California (Calexico/Andrade), California (Southwest border), Washington (all other), Washington (Northern Border), New York (other), Pennsylvania, Virginia, Texas (Presidio), St. Thomas, St. Croix, Florida-Key West, New Mexico (Columbus), Puerto Rico, and Vermont.

[deyosurf19]

Well, I got the "call" today (actually, I called TSU inquiring about how soon they'd call because I'm supposed to be in a wedding... lady stated I was the second file on her desk and offered me the job).

I get to choose from Piegan, Sweetgrass, or Raymond (Montana). I'm leaning towards Piegan because I like the outdoors. Anyone in Montana have any opinions?

Everyone... keep you heads up. The lady at TSU seemed very busy so I'm guessing they are calling people as fast as they can get them into an academy slot.

- Steve

Congrats man, that is pretty good timing. She was probably going to call you within the day anyway.

Any other members here for Class 906?

[williamssd]

She was probably going to call you within the day anyway.

Any other members here for Class 906?


Thanks. She did say I was going to be getting the call from her within the hour or so, so I beat her to it.

I haven't looked/figured out what class I'll be in... Apparently it's 906?

Hopefully others here will be there. I won't have my car (unfortunately)... it's a hellavu drive from Northwestern Montana to Southeastern Georgia!

[shawal16]

Imlikeaninja,

If being a CBPO is want you really want don't withdrawal. If you get a TO for an place you don't want accept it and go with the steps. Eventually they will issue a new vacancy announcement and you will be able to change geo preferences at that time. All the steps you have already completed will transfer over, and you will a few steps ahead of the game when you receive a new TO. Just my opinion. But you should do whats best for you and your family.

[imlikeaninja]

Imlikeaninja,

If being a CBPO is want you really want don't withdrawal. If you get a TO for an place you don't want accept it and go with the steps. Eventually they will issue a new vacancy announcement and you will be able to change geo preferences at that time. All the steps you have already completed will transfer over, and you will a few steps ahead of the game when you receive a new TO. Just my opinion. But you should do whats best for you and your family.

Really? If I get a TO and accept don't I have to take it. At what point will they get ****ed at me for bailing? How often do vacancies get announced? Thanks for the help guys I really want this but I don't wanna waste anyones time or hold a spot that someone else can use.

[shawal16]

Really? If I get a TO and accept don't I have to take it. At what point will they get ****ed at me for bailing? How often do vacancies get announced? Thanks for the help guys I really want this but I don't wanna waste anyones time or hold a spot that someone else can use.

People do it all the time. They go through the steps and decide they no longer want to relocate and wait for a new vacancy announcement to reapply. Don't fall into the assumption that if you take a position somewhere you don't want to be you can transfer. So far there were 2 vacancy announcements in 2008. (February, and the past announcement)

[matyoka]

I get to choose from Piegan, Sweetgrass, or Raymond (Montana). I'm leaning towards Piegan because I like the outdoors. Anyone in Montana have any opinions?


You should be at "home" in Montana if you are from Wisconsin. I came uphere from Jersey on a transfer and I am near but not at Piegan. Summers are great, winters suck ballz. You will have absolutely no personal life whatsoever... work, work and more work. There are a couple of towns in the area on both sides, but nothing significant. Overtime will be pleasantly more than other ports, but then again you are in the middle of nowhere. Sweetgrass politics is baaad, Raymond is again far from intelligent life... so Piegan is a good choice in Montana :)

[Tarheel1]

Well, I got the "call" today (actually, I called TSU inquiring about how soon they'd call because I'm supposed to be in a wedding... lady stated I was the second file on her desk and offered me the job).

I get to choose from Piegan, Sweetgrass, or Raymond (Montana). I'm leaning towards Piegan because I like the outdoors. Anyone in Montana have any opinions?

Everyone... keep you heads up. The lady at TSU seemed very busy so I'm guessing they are calling people as fast as they can get them into an academy slot.

- Steve

Congrats man and good luck.

[Tarheel1]

"Critical needs" is more or less a crap shoot as well.
Critical needs has always been more about the hiring center's need for more applications for various locations than for any real world need to fill particular job openings.

Applied to one of these locations and they tell me "no vacancies" right now! yikes. oh well, just keep on waiting.

[Rolygsx]

imlikeaninja We are both in the same boat. I'm just going to wait and reapply when there are vacancies in NYC or NJ. In the meantime i will change my GEO location to PA.

I just moved from Queens, where i also lived real close to JFK(lived in Far Rockaway).
But i wouldn't mind working in philly, It's about an hour and a half drive from me.


Where do i check the Announcements for available locations?


Ro

[barnaj]

Applied to one of these locations and they tell me "no vacancies" right now! yikes. oh well, just keep on waiting.

Stay positive. They dont spend money and make you do all the steps just to not hire you. You'll get a call, maybe later, but hopefully sooner!

[ifoCBP]

I've been in the process for a year now.... LA/Long Beach... and have seen a couple of other people here that tested at the same time I did take almost a year!... So, as to how many people they were looking for in these ports it was 100 for LAX and 50 for Long Beach (that was Sept. 07'). Maybe the other way around though...lol... it's been a freaking year already can't really remember that detail... But, I do know they were looking for 150 people to fill the spots.
:cool:

That's a long time. Sorry. I know a few people who have been hired in or around 6-8 months. You should contact someone.

[juststartedthis]

Are there any CBPO candidates out there that know if any T.O.s have been sent out for VT? Especially from anyone that tested in August.

[nasapso234]

Anyone apply for the SF, Oakland, San Jose area? About to start backgrounds wondering if anyone else applied?

[Orleanian84]

"Critical needs" is more or less a crap shoot as well.
Critical needs has always been more about the hiring center's need for more applications for various locations than for any real world need to fill particular job openings.

That is so true. At one point new orleans became a critical needs area and i had been in scheduling for a month with no call. When i called scheduling, the beautiful sounding lady's voice told me that there was still no open vacancies for louisiana, but not worry that many people weren't waiting for louisiana and I was very close on the list.

So far its been three months now and still no call. I've become more patient now thanks to the help of people on this forum. I figured some cities that a person would rather work in may take longer to get. Im also hoping that its a funding problem and that October fy '09 would open some of these closed vacancy spots up? I want to call scheduling to ask them, but I think I may have called them too many times because now they don't even have to look my file up to answer my question, lol!

[vic1218]

How difficult is it to try and change a geographic location if their isn't an announcement open?

[barnaj]

How difficult is it to try and change a geographic location if their isn't an announcement open?

As long as you didnt get your t.o. yet, you can change your geo. The address should be on you NOR's.

[vic1218]

As long as you didnt get your t.o. yet, you can change your geo. The address should be on you NOR's.

barnaj, I am going to change it to O'Hare. It's probably gonna be extremely competitive but hopefully a 90 is good enough. We'll see.

[barnaj]

barnaj, I am going to change it to O'Hare. It's probably gonna be extremely competitive but hopefully a 90 is good enough. We'll see.

Well there is a ton of cool people there, all my friends from FLETC were going there. Not to mention one super HOT chick! You might as well stay around home, the process will probably be the same amount of time.

[imlikeaninja]

How difficult is it to try and change a geographic location if their isn't an announcement open?

when I asked to change my geo preference yesterday they told me I could only pick from these places

Arizona, Maine, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, East Texas, California (San Francisco/Oakland), California (Los Angeles/Long Beach), California (Calexico/Andrade), California (Southwest border), Washington (all other), Washington (Northern Border), New York (other), Pennsylvania, Virginia, Texas (Presidio), St. Thomas, St. Croix, Florida-Key West, New Mexico (Columbus), Puerto Rico, and Vermont.

I want to change to NYC but they said I had to wait for a new announcement. Please let me know if you find out differently.

[freeagent305]

I finally got the call yesterday.
I was a November 07 test taker. I had selected Fl and all other locations(not miami). I had a choice of Orlando and Port Everglades..Picked Port Everglades.
I EOD on the 28th and academy on Oct 20 something.

Im a prior BP Agent chasing mexicans and driving an hour n a half to work and soon will be working with Customs!!! 20 Mikes from home!
God is GOOd

[Dfly123]

Week one down. So far so good here. Fletc isn't bad at all. And the majority of people are nice and helpful. Did not get stuck with a roomate, and got into the taj. If anyone is heading here soon, don't worry... Hardest thing is learning your way around (so far). LOL. The weather here is perfect and they are very prepared for a hurricane. But an umbrella is a must. Waiting for the bus in some places, when it's rainy is not fun.

[sandiego411]

Week one down. So far so good here. Fletc isn't bad at all. And the majority of people are nice and helpful. Did not get stuck with a roomate, and got into the taj. If anyone is heading here soon, don't worry... Hardest thing is learning your way around (so far). LOL. The weather here is perfect and they are very prepared for a hurricane. But an umbrella is a must. Waiting for the bus in some places, when it's rainy is not fun.


Hi, since you have your schedule, can you tell me which days you have for Thanksgiving? Also, are they giving Veterans day off as well? If you are there for Christmas and New Years please let me know which days they are giving you off as well. I'm curious because i'm scheduled for fletc on October 23 but I'm trying to see if i have enough time to fly home for holidays since i would be flying back to CA. Thanks!!

[matyoka]

How difficult is it to try and change a geographic location if their isn't an announcement open?

Did you try the Minnesota Hiring Center phone line yet?

[merlin436]

Well, I got the "call" today (actually, I called TSU inquiring about how soon they'd call because I'm supposed to be in a wedding... lady stated I was the second file on her desk and offered me the job).

I get to choose from Piegan, Sweetgrass, or Raymond (Montana). I'm leaning towards Piegan because I like the outdoors. Anyone in Montana have any opinions?

Everyone... keep you heads up. The lady at TSU seemed very busy so I'm guessing they are calling people as fast as they can get them into an academy slot.

- Steve

I spent a month at Chief Mt. on TDY a few years back. Chief is the summer port in Glacier Nat. Park that's run out of Piegan. Beautiful country, but empty as can be. The officers at Piegan were a good bunch then, but I think their port director retired a while back, so I'm not sure how things run there now.
Lots of busy work in the summer amd pretty much nothing all winter long. Given the choice of the 3, I'd take Piegan. Piegan isn't a 24 hour port though, so you lose out on pretty much all of the potential to work midnights. If night diff. matters to you.
Sweetgrass is the most busy of the 3. That's the place to go if you're looking for the greatest experiences.
Raymond is a small 24 hour port on the eastern side of the state. I haven't heard much about Raymond, good or bad. I've been to Scobey, which is right next door, empty, mostly flat and miles from nowhere.

[williamssd]

Given the choice of the 3, I'd take Piegan. Piegan isn't a 24 hour port though, so you lose out on pretty much all of the potential to work midnights. If night diff. matters to you.

Thanks Merlin. I'm leaning towards Piegan, too. Sweetgrass would be nice for the "busy-ness" but I'm not too concerned with money at this point. I'm checked over my financials carefully and can survive on GS-5 pay for a year. GS-7 pay is only a couple grand shy of WI state leo pay, so after 12 months I'll be sittin' pretty.

Do you know anything about available gov't housing at Piegan? I've heard they have it available -- or at least I hope it's available to me. From the maps I can tell it's pretty remote. I can always try to find housing in Blackfeet country. I wonder what the reservation folks think of CBPO's?

I'm curious to see how much snow will be waiting for me in mid-February when I return from FLETC. Apparently it doesn't get too cold up by the mountains, just lots of snow (I'm used nasty cold though, coming from northwestern Wisconsin).

Thanks again for the info!
- Steve

[matyoka]

Steve,

Just got off the phone with the PD and unfortunatelly there is no housing available at Piegan untill sometime next summer...

[shopshop]

Anyone apply for the SF, Oakland, San Jose area? About to start backgrounds wondering if anyone else applied?

I am located SF, I meet with BI since 08/25/08, but I am still pending for medical issue, so I don't expect to get call from them 3 months later if I am lucky, same to you.

[madchiken]

I will never understand why CBP does not have some type of English grammar test.

[williamssd]

I will never understand why CBP does not have some type of English grammar test.

Pollo Loco,

Hope you don't mean me... I actually had my very first practice memo at FLETC-Art come back with no errors or corrections -- only one that I know of in Class 710. :) And my instructor was a former English teacher.

I do know what you mean. I work in conjunction with clinical therapists now and you would not believe some of their therapy reports. And these are people with Master's degrees and some are close to their PhD's! Then there are the current part-time college students... I'm almost embarrassed for my alma mater.

[tsacbp]

Thanks for the info on FLETC im almost there, how are the tests hard? are they on computer or written.

[matyoka]

When I am here, the last thing I want to do is to sift the contents of my replies through a Word spell checker... I am sure many people do it, not me.

[mi562]

I will never understand why CBP does not have some type of English grammar test.

I second THAT!!!!! ;)

[madchiken]

Spelling mistakes are one thing. I mean the ones that you actually have to decode what they heck they are trying to say.

[matyoka]

LOL, yup but remember that most people asking questions are not CBP yet :D

[madchiken]

Hence my first statement that there should be a test during the hiring process.

[mi562]

Thanks for the info on FLETC im almost there, how are the tests hard? are they on computer or written.

Let's see.....where do I start with this one???????? I'm not even going to address the "sentence." I bet everyone is happy about that! What's up with your screen name? Why in the world would you put "tsa" with "cbp?" Is it an abbreviation for something other than the Transportation Security Administration???? :confused:

[merlin436]

Hence my first statement that there should be a test during the hiring process.

Heck...I think CBP ought to test current employees as well, with remedials for those folks that want/need them.

On a related issue, you think we'll ever get agency access to Rosetta Stone language programs? ICE and DoD have it.

Then again, who would ever use a second language in our lines of work?:rolleyes:

[DACP_BU]

Did anyone apply for PR? i am only two check marks away from FLETC hopefully by the end of nov.

[matyoka]

Heck...I think CBP ought to test current employees as well, with remedials for those folks that want/need them.

On a related issue, you think we'll ever get agency access to Rosetta Stone language programs? ICE and DoD have it.

Then again, who would ever use a second language in our lines of work?:rolleyes:

Not only that I used two foreign languages on a daily basis, I also got paid for it. Aren't you guys getting paid for a foreign language used more than 25% of your "on the clock" time? Also, CSI officers overseas use languages as well. The selection of a CSI CBPO is made based on language, experience and years on the job.

[NJKY85]

What happens if your injured after having the background investigation completed and while waiting for the call? When you do get the call are you able to delay accepting a position or no?

Lets say someone breaks their leg...or finds out they need surgery...what happens then?

[psychoticnemo]

Wow guys you are on top of everything. In all reality we are here to speak about our process and to help each other out with our inquiries. My BI came on Tuesday the 2nd and It went great, and from what I hear he has visited and interviewed everyone that I had put down as refferences. I am excited. That was all I was waiting for. My Quals and Pre Employment forms are the only things that I need to clear out.

[merlin436]

Aren't you guys getting paid for a foreign language used more than 25% of your "on the clock" time?

That depends.

A lot of NB guys who are fluent in Acadian French or Quebec French get passed over for the language award because the testing for French is usually done with European French trained testers.

[Orleanian84]

Not only that I used two foreign languages on a daily basis, I also got paid for it. Aren't you guys getting paid for a foreign language used more than 25% of your "on the clock" time? Also, CSI officers overseas use languages as well. The selection of a CSI CBPO is made based on language, experience and years on the job.

What are CSI officers?

[Gabbanelli911]

Not only that I used two foreign languages on a daily basis, I also got paid for it. Aren't you guys getting paid for a foreign language used more than 25% of your "on the clock" time? Also, CSI officers overseas use languages as well. The selection of a CSI CBPO is made based on language, experience and years on the job.

I'm going to be at a port of entry in the Arizona border and here Spanish is used at least 80% of the time. I'm fluent in the Spanish language, so does this mean that I'll get paid extra money for this, even if most of the CBP officers at this port of entry speak Spanish? If so, how much extra and is that included in the $35,000 cap?

In the military I was getting paid $100.00 extra every month for speaking Spanish, but they cancelled Spanish from proficiency language pay because "too many soldiers spoke Spanish."

[merlin436]

What are CSI officers?

Container Security Initiative.

Cargo pre-clearance in selected foreign ports located in Canada and elsewhere around the world.

There are also passenger pre-clearance foreign ports.

[matyoka]

If you pass the FLAP exam, and use a language 25% of the 8 hrs... you are eligible for a language allowance. Up on the Northern border where I am, there is no language compensation.

What is CSI?

Container Security Initiative. You are assigned to a port in Germany, Italy, Spain, England, Saudi... you name it, as a representative of the USCBP.

And the official language version:

Container Security Initiative (CSI)



The primary mission of the Container Security Initiative (CSI) is to prevent and deter terrorist use of maritime containers while facilitating the movement of legitimate trade. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers assigned to the CSI teams in foreign ports screen manifest information at the foreign ports before they are shipped to the United States. CSI officers at the foreign ports utilize the CBP Automated Targeting System (ATS) to identify containers that pose a potential threat for terrorism. CSI host government officers examine those containers identified as posing a potential risk at the foreign port while our CBP Officers observe. The examinations are conducted using technology, including both radiation detectors and large-scale radiographic imaging machines to detect potential terrorist weapons.

[matyoka]

You posted while I was writing it up :)

[will0861]

How difficult is it to get assigned to a foreign CSI port? I'm thinking it might be a good idea to be out of the country to ride out the impending Obama disaster.

[merlin436]

How difficult is it to get assigned to a foreign CSI port? I'm thinking it might be a good idea to be out of the country to ride out the impending Obama disaster.

Difficult to very difficult. Unless you're willing to work in someplace like Darfur in the Sudan.

Short answer...you'll likely need at least 3 years in on the job at a major port, plenty of KSA's, and lots of luck to be even remotely considered.

[matyoka]

Just as Merlin said.

[Orleanian84]

Difficult to very difficult. Unless you're willing to work in someplace like Darfur in the Sudan.

Short answer...you'll likely need at least 3 years in on the job at a major port, plenty of KSA's, and lots of luck to be even remotely considered.

Out of curiosity, how is the pay for CSI officers? Are there benifits like housing, per diem allowance, hazard pay, etc?

[antwatersx]

What kind of internet access is available at FLETC for personal computers?

[yoda]

What kind of internet access is available at FLETC for personal computers?

From what I've read here, there is non. There are some hot spots near that you might be able to tap into from what I've seen posted here. :cool:

[merlin436]

Out of curiosity, how is the pay for CSI officers? Are there benifits like housing, per diem allowance, hazard pay, etc?

To be honest, I don't know. I'm not one of the fortunate selected ones.

I have heard it offers many perks, both financial and career-wise.

As an applicant, CSI is likely 5 or so years down the road for you, if ever.
Not to be a wise-arse, but I'd focus myself on things closer to the here/now and the next month/year...if I was you.

[Goosell]

I had a question for people at FLETC or that have worked as a CBPO in a port where Spanish is required. I know some spanish but I'm no where close to fluent. From what i understand I have to take a Spanish test at FLETC. If I fail that test I have to take a 6 week Spanish course in South Carolina. So I have a couple of questions.

After six weeks im not going to be fluent in Spanish, so what will I do at my port, work with someone that knows spanish??

Is the Spanish teaching free for me?? Or will i have to pay for a hotel, food, etc. in S.C.?

And another question about FLETC. I read above that there aren't really any internet options. But is there decent/good cell phone coverage. I have a blackberry with a internet data plan and it would be great if i could get on the internet with that.

[dcc1864]

I'm new to the forum and I was wondering if anyone knew the phone number or email address for the security office. I was wanting to check on my background and quals they are still pending after three months.

Test: 02/08
TO: 03/08
Medical/Fitness: 04/08 PASSED
BI: 07/08 IN SECURITY OFFICE
Quals: 07/08 PENDING - Grade 7
VBT: 05/08 PASSED
Drug Test: 08/08 PASSED

[kc12]

There is WiFi access at the student center and there was a hotspot at the northwest corner of building 96. You also have the option of using dialup in your rooms or using a card for your laptop. I didn't find access remotely limited at all.

As far as going TDY to Charleston FLETC to learn a language it is all on Uncle Sam's dime. You don't pay anything. If you are required to stay at a hotel off center you will be reimbursed in your travel pay. From what I've been told the thing with learning a language is you will be learning the formal language. You will learn the actual street language when you get to your port. I used to work with a woman who had several years schooling in Spanish. She said she still had a hard time talking to many Mexicans because of the slang used. She didn't have anybody to talk in slang with so that caused problems on the street.

[barnaj]

From what I've read here, there is non. There are some hot spots near that you might be able to tap into from what I've seen posted here. :cool:

Last year, you could go wireless at the "G Bar", many people brought their laptops in there. Couldnt get a signal in my room in the Taj, but if you have aol or hotmail service you can simply use the phone line to dial up. It's slow, but does the job for checking your bills and email, etc. This was last year, so keep in mind things may have changed (but i doubt it).

[verbalkint4]

Out of curiosity, how is the pay for CSI officers? Are there benifits like housing, per diem allowance, hazard pay, etc?

There are two types of CSI assignments, TDY's and Permanent. TDY'ers are given a generous per diem and a substantial housing allowance. While TDY, your pay is whatever GS level your at plus locality pay for whatever stateside port your assigned to. TDY assignments vary in length from 6 months to a year (or less if you screw up and are sent back home). You used to be able to give your top three choices of where you wanted to go, but no longer. Your assignment is at HQ discretion.

Permanent assignments are posted via USAJobs and vary in length from two to five years. You put in for the port you want when it opens. While you aren't paid per diem, the state dept. pays for your utilities, your children's schooling as well as part of your housing costs. Your pay is the base GS scale. Another bonus to permanent is that, once done, HQ will try to get you into the stateside port of your choice.

In both cases, you need at least your 11 to get the assignment. I don't think selection for CSI makes you as elite as others here believe, but you need to be able to prove you act professionally and have at least a basic understanding of seaport ops. While I had about four years experience working at the LA/Long Beach seaport, I had next to zero targeting experience when I was selected. Definitely one of the most professionally and personally rewarding experiences of my career.

[vic1218]

This is a record for the Customs and Border Protection Officer examination you recently took. This is not a job offer.

Your score may be found under "Rating" below; "70.0" or higher is passing. Any changes to your record (i.e. address,

email address, telephone numbers, veterans preference claim, and/or geographic location code change) must be

submitted in writing. Please contact the REX Unit at the address above (Attn: REX-CBPO), or by fax at

612-727-2225, or by email at deu.cbpo.nhc@dhs.gov with your requested change(s).



ATTN VETERANS: If you passed the written examination and are claiming 5 or 10 points veterans' preference, the

points are included in your score. If you receive a tentative selection letter, you will be required to provide proof of

preference at that time.

Series - Position Title: 1895 - CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION OFFICER

Vacancy ID Number: 190623

Announcement Number: CBPO 08-03

Date of Availability: 08/06/2008

Full-time Employment: Yes

Geographic Availability:

Illinois, IL


I just changed my geographic location from Michigan to Chicago. This is directly from the email I received.

[imlikeaninja]

That is weird. So how come when I tried to change my GEO the other day the lady gave me a short list of which places I could change it to. NYC/JFK(what I wanted) was not on the list and neither was Chicago/Illinois. How did you go about changing it (email,phone fax,mail?) and do you know the name of the person who helped you? If so can you PM it to me so I can see if we dealt with the same person or if I should ask to speak to someone else.

[shawal16]

That is weird. So how come when I tried to change my GEO the other day the lady gave me a short list of which places I could change it to. NYC/JFK(what I wanted) was not on the list and neither was Chicago/Illinois. How did you go about changing it (email,phone fax,mail?) and do you know the name of the person who helped you? If so can you PM it to me so I can see if we dealt with the same person or if I should ask to speak to someone else.

Did you apply before or after the extension?

I would assume that if you applied before the extension you would be able to change your geo preference without limitations. If you applied after the extension you would be limited to only the critical need areas that the annoucement was extended for.

That's my reasoning, it could be completely wrong. But, that's the only explanation I can come up with.

Good Luck

[imlikeaninja]

as far as I can tell I applied to the same vacancy announcement as vic (the numbers all match up). My NOR also says Vacancy ID Number: 190623. I don't know anything about any extension. Here is the announcement I applied for.

Vacancy Ann.#: CBPO 08-03
Who May Apply: Public
Pay Plan: GS-1895-05/07
Appointment Term: Permanent
Job Status: Full-Time
Opening Date: 6/30/2008
Salary: From 29,726.00 to 47,864.00 USD per year

Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection US-NY-New York City and JFK Airport 29,726.00+

I don't wanna sound like a whiney B***h but I'm trying to figure out if I should pursue this with the hiring center or just hang tight and wait for a new announcement.

[gms632]

If I email the MHC will they well me a list of geographic preferences that I am available for?

[shawal16]

as far as I can tell I applied to the same vacancy announcement as vic (the numbers all match up). My NOR also says Vacancy ID Number: 190623. I don't know anything about any extension. Here is the announcement I applied for.

Vacancy Ann.#: CBPO 08-03
Who May Apply: Public
Pay Plan: GS-1895-05/07
Appointment Term: Permanent
Job Status: Full-Time
Opening Date: 6/30/2008
Salary: From 29,726.00 to 47,864.00 USD per year

Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection US-NY-New York City and JFK Airport 29,726.00+

I don't wanna sound like a whiney B***h but I'm trying to figure out if I should pursue this with the hiring center or just hang tight and wait for a new announcement.

Did you apply before or after July 21?

If I email the MHC will they well me a list of geographic preferences that I am available for?

I wouldn't see a problem with that. They are usually pretty helpful.

[imlikeaninja]

Did you apply before or after July 21?

after, but the vacancy announcement was open till August 3rd.

[shawal16]

after, but the vacancy announcement was open till August 3rd.

Unfortunately that answers the question. After July 21, the vacancy was only open for certain locations only.

[Hound77]

after, but the vacancy announcement was open till August 3rd.

Not for nothing, but have you considered maybe moving for a job to PA, if they put you in the eastern part of the state it's a short drive back to family and friends and it's just dirt cheap to live there (compared to our wonderful tri-state area).

The trick is getting a job out there but I know some people who live like kings on two GS 11 salaries (non CBP, or law enforcement for that matter.)

Moving is a huge decision, but PA definitely has a lot of upside to it if you have a definite job out there.

[GooseGunner10]

Hi. I took the CBP test back in March, received a 97 (no vet points), with a Geo. Pref. of Buffalo. Passed the VBT, Fitness, and Drug Testing in early June and just had my Medical cleared on August 29th. I have a question regarding the status of my background in CASS. It says that the background documentation to begin my investigation has not been received. Is this normal or is there something that needs to be completed on my part?

[shopshop]

Hi. I took the CBP test back in March, received a 97 (no vet points), with a Geo. Pref. of Buffalo. Passed the VBT, Fitness, and Drug Testing in early June and just had my Medical cleared on August 29th. I have a question regarding the status of my background in CASS. It says that the background documentation to begin my investigation has not been received. Is this normal or is there something that needs to be completed on my part?

considered you are lucky to clear your medical, I am still pending due to my lasik surgery for 3 months later, as far as I know, the investigator will contact you soon. so be patience and wait for additional weeks.

[triplejump]

Does anyone know what the start dates are for 2009. I'm trying to plan a wedding for Jan 3rd. and I have a feeling training starts Jan 19th. Passed everything, except retesting vision on November 15th (3 months post op for Lasik surgery).

[qixfeet]

Does anyone know what the start dates are for 2009. I'm trying to plan a wedding for Jan 3rd. and I have a feeling training starts Jan 19th. Passed everything, except retesting vision on November 15th (3 months post op for Lasik surgery).

If 2007 and 2008 are an indicator classes will be starting every week, maybe twice a week.

[Goosell]

What do you get paid while in FLETC? And do you get paid for 40 hrs?

I'm a little confused on my paper work it says my Series grade and step is GS-1895-5/1 and my base salary is 29,726. Now when go to the pay scales my 29,726 is under GS 5 level 1. (but locality is added) So from my understanding im hired at GS 5 lvl 1. But doesn't GS 5 lvl 1 mean you don't have a hs diploma??? or is that not true??

[shawal16]

What do you get paid while in FLETC? And do you get paid for 40 hrs?

I'm a little confused on my paper work it says my Series grade and step is GS-1895-5/1 and my base salary is 29,726. Now when go to the pay scales my 29,726 is under GS 5 level 1. (but locality is added) So from my understanding im hired at GS 5 lvl 1. But doesn't GS 5 lvl 1 mean you don't have a hs diploma??? or is that not true??

You'll receive your base salary plus locality pay while at FLETC.

GS5 is the lowest grade that an applicant can qualify for. I believe you do not need a High School Diploma for GS5. All you need is qualifying work experience.

[Goosell]

You'll receive your base salary plus locality pay while at FLETC.

GS5 is the lowest grade that an applicant can qualify for. I believe you do not need a High School Diploma for GS5. All you need is qualifying work experience.

So the 29,726 is my salary including locality pay at GS - 5 lvl 1. ( basically is the number that i was quoted my salary including locality pay.)

also how quickly will i go to a GS 7 lvl 1

[shawal16]

So the 29,726 is my salary including locality pay at GS - 5 lvl 1. ( basically is the number that i was quoted my salary including locality pay.)

also how quickly will i go to a GS 7 lvl 1

What locality are you in?

Grade increases occur 26 pp after your EOD.

[grullj]

Does anyone have the number to the security office?

[shawal16]

Does anyone have the number to the security office?

Wouldn't we all love to have that number. lol

It's hard to come across, since some people take the opportunity to stalk the security personnel.

[yoda]

Does anyone have the number to the security office?

May I ask what your timeline is?...:D

[cargo82]

once everything on CASS is completed, how long does it usually take to receive "the call" to start? Specifically for Miami...

[barnaj]

once everything on CASS is completed, how long does it usually take to receive "the call" to start? Specifically for Miami...

Kind of hard to say. Depends on the staffing needs and funding. I would venture to say expect a call soon, but after reading some peoples post, they've been in TSU status for quite a while.

[vic1218]

I was informed by someone at the hiring center that they will finish testing on 9-10-08 so they might be sending out to's some time soon.

[barnaj]

I was informed by someone at the hiring center that they will finish testing on 9-10-08 so they might be sending out to's some time soon.

You haven't gotten one for Chicago yet have you? I couldn't remember if you got a t.o. or just your NOR's.

[Goosell]

What locality are you in?

Grade increases occur 26 pp after your EOD.

Douglas az

[audi0xpl0de]

Still waiting on a TO. Tested in July for Maine.

[barnaj]

Still waiting on a TO. Tested in July for Maine.

what kind of score did you get on the test?

[Goosell]

once everything on CASS is completed, how long does it usually take to receive "the call" to start? Specifically for Miami...

It only took 10 days or so for me. Actually I never even had my medical "cleared" I had to get additional info because I had two shoulder operations. But after my background cleared I got the call 10 days later. Then my medical cleared lol.

[MilwaukeeBucks]

Hey guys. Took my test in July and scored a 90. Location I specified was Washington-Northern Border. Anyone else specify that locale? Or are currently there?

[audi0xpl0de]

what kind of score did you get on the test?

86.

[barnaj]

86.

Thats a good score, if there is any truth to the 100-90, 90-80, 80-70 t.o. rounds, you should be getting one before too long.

[triplejump]

CASS shows my background investigation has been completed as of 09-08-2008 however I just met with the investigator today. Has anyone else heard of this? I got the green check, however it just states your background investigation has been completed.

[vic1218]

You haven't gotten one for Chicago yet have you? I couldn't remember if you got a t.o. or just your NOR's.

I just got my NOR. No t.o. yet.