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Customs Agent Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Expeditors

Customs Brokerage Agent

Brisbane, CA

Ensure the proper and timely movement and clearance of freight, while providing exceptional customer service within the Customs Brokerage department. Key Responsibilities: * Ensure smooth and timely ...

Expeditors

Customs Brokerage Agent

Brisbane, CA · On-site

$24 - $31/hr

Ensure the proper and timely movement and clearance of freight, while providing exceptional customer service within the Customs Brokerage department. Key Responsibilities: * Ensure smooth and timely ...

American Fruits & Flavors

Be Seen First

Regulatory Affairs Supervisor

San Fernando, CA · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

Generate draft documents and responses to customs agent's requests for information related to AFF products. (For manager review.) * Communicate approved information to customers, certification ...

Unifi

Airport Customer Service Agent - LGB (PT)

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Airport Customer Service Agent - LGB (PT) Unifi Aviation, LLC is seeking an Airport Customer ... Direct passengers through Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine. * Assist ramp agents to ensure that ...

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All JobsCustoms Agent JobsCustoms Agent Jobs in California

Customs Agent information

See California salary details

$35K

$111.9K

$134.7K

How much do customs agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs agent in California is $111,921.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $132,700.00 and $133,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a customs agent?

Customs Agents are government officials responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to the import and export of goods across international borders. Their duties include inspecting shipments, verifying documentation, assessing duties and taxes, and preventing illegal goods such as drugs or contraband from entering or leaving a country. Customs Agents help ensure compliance with trade regulations, protect national security, and facilitate lawful international trade. They may work at airports, seaports, border crossings, or other points of entry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a customs agent?

To thrive as a Customs Agent, you need strong knowledge of import/export regulations, attention to detail, and a background in law enforcement or criminal justice, often supported by relevant government training. Familiarity with customs management systems, X-ray scanning equipment, and document verification tools is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and integrity help agents manage high-pressure situations and interact effectively with travelers and colleagues. These skills are crucial for ensuring legal compliance, maintaining border security, and facilitating smooth international trade.

What challenges do customs agents face when processing shipments?

Customs Agents often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, complex documentation requirements, and the need to stay updated with frequently changing regulations. New hires can prepare by developing strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and a willingness to continuously learn about trade laws and international agreements. Building good communication skills is also essential, as Customs Agents regularly collaborate with importers, exporters, and other government agencies to resolve issues and ensure compliance.

What is the difference between Customs Agent vs Customs Broker?

AspectCustoms AgentCustoms Broker
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some certifications may be preferredRequires licensing and certification, such as a customs broker license
Work EnvironmentWorks for government agencies or import/export companies, inspecting shipments and ensuring complianceWorks for private companies or independently, handling customs clearance and documentation
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, import/export firmsFreight forwarders, import/export companies, customs brokerage firms

While both Customs Agents and Customs Brokers deal with customs procedures, Customs Agents primarily work for government agencies inspecting shipments, whereas Customs Brokers assist private clients with customs clearance and documentation. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service provider.

How do you become a customs agent?

To become a customs agent, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete specialized training provided by customs agencies. Some positions may require knowledge of customs laws, security procedures, and proficiency with relevant tools or technology; additional certifications or exams may also be necessary depending on the jurisdiction.

How much money do customs agents make?

Customs agents typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced agents or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented with benefits and overtime opportunities.

Is it hard to become a customs agent?

Becoming a customs agent typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, passing a background check, and completing specialized training or certification. The process can involve passing written exams and physical assessments, and some positions may require prior experience in law enforcement or security. Overall, it requires dedication and meeting specific qualifications, but it is achievable with proper preparation.

What are popular job titles related to Customs Agent jobs in California?

For Customs Agent jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Customs Agent jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Customs Agent jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Customs Agent jobs?

Cities in California with the most Customs Agent job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Customs Agent jobs in CA?

For Customs Agent jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Customs Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Customs Agent job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,921 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Customs Brokerage Agent

Brisbane, CA

Expeditors

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 366 rated logistics

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents

Learn more about Expeditorsexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Company Description

“We’re not in the shipping business; we’re in the information business” -Peter Rose, Expeditors Founder

We take care of our employees, and they take care of our customers!

Become a member of a global community! The international logistics industry is an integral piece of the global trade puzzle; we make the world go round. Global supply chain management is what we do, and at the heart of Expeditors you will find professionalism, leadership, and a friendly environment, all of which foster an innovative, customer service-based approach to logistics. Expeditors is a global logistics company headquartered in Seattle, Washington. As a Fortune 500 company, we employ over 19,000 trained professionals in a worldwide network of over 350+ locations across six continents. Expeditors satisfies the increasingly sophisticated needs of international trade through customized solutions and seamless, integrated information systems.

Our Mission

We recruit, train, and retain the very best logistics and technical experts the world over. We love to promote from within - more than 50 percent of our employees have been at Expeditors for five years or more. Our high retention rate is influenced by a unique compensation program for positions that are more than just jobs - they're chances to grow, do what you love and build a career with us!

www.expeditors.com

Job Description

Scope of Position: 

Ensure the proper and timely movement and clearance of freight, while providing exceptional customer service within the Customs Brokerage department. 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Ensure smooth and timely shipment process flow
  • Ensure accurate and timely data entry into our operational system based on defined metrics
  • Track and trace shipments
  • Provide proactive and clear communication to internal and external customers
  • Ensure accurate and timely client billing, including dispute resolution
  • Understand customer expectation to ensure all the elements of the SOP and KPI’s are met
  • Ensure compliance to company policies and external regulations
  • Complete cross training in order to support team coverage 
  • Professionally represent Expeditors to our customers, service providers, and government agencies

Expectations:

  • Continually identify areas to improve efficiency
  • Embrace and adopt technology to optimize their ability to complete their work
  • Achieve standard of 52 hours training per year, including all mandatory trainings
  • Drive and develop customer relationship in order to exceed their expectations
  • Have a sense of urgency, be willing to help by offering solutions

***MUST BE LOCAL***

Qualifications
  • Have knowledge and/or prior experience of industry specific qualifications
  • Effective interpersonal skills, including proven abilities to listen, comprehend, effectively communicate clearly and concisely to obtain positive results 
  • Pro-active, strong organizational skills 
  • Good computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Technical Skills

  • Strong understanding of software development principles.
  • Experience with automation platforms such as Power Automate.
  • Experience with Microsoft Copilot and M365 technologies.
  • Familiarity with data structures, APIs, integrations, and system architecture.
  • Basic understanding of AI, machine learning, LLMs, and prompt engineering.
  • Ability to troubleshoot technical issues independently.

 Business Skills

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to understand complex operational processes.
  • Experience translating business requirements into technical solutions.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills. 
     

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience developing automations, applications, or digital solutions.
  • Experience leading cross-functional projects.
  • Experience working in operations, logistics, finance, or enterprise shared services environments.
  • Certifications in Microsoft Power Platform, Azure AI, Microsoft Copilot, or related technologies.

Additional Information

Expected Hourly Range: $24.00 – $31.00 

Expeditors offers excellent benefits:

  • Paid Vacation (first year prorated based off month of hire then eligible for 15 days)
  • Holidays (10)
  • Flexible Days (2)
  • Paid Sick Time (accrual rate of 1 hour of sick time per 30 hours paid)
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with employer match
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental & Vision Coverage
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave (additional eligibility criteria)
  • Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (DC FSA)
  • Commuter Benefit
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Learning & Development Program
  • Educational Assistance and Reimbursement

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO Guidelines.

May be eligible for bonus following first year of continuous employment in position.

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