ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Customs Agent Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Expeditors

Customs Brokerage Agent

Brisbane, CA · On-site

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 ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 26, 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.

How do I 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 or border protection agencies. Some positions may require passing written exams and demonstrating knowledge of customs laws, security procedures, and relevant software tools.

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.

What are Customs Agents?

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 are the most common challenges Customs Agents face when processing shipments, and how can new hires prepare for them?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Customs Agent, and why are they important?

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.

How much do US customs agents get paid?

US Customs Agents, also known as Customs and Border Protection officers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and rank. They often require background checks, training, and may work irregular hours or shifts. Salaries can increase with seniority, specialized skills, and additional certifications.

Is it hard to become a CBP agent?

Becoming a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent requires meeting specific eligibility criteria, passing written exams, physical fitness tests, background checks, and completing training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. The process is competitive and involves multiple steps, but with proper preparation and qualifications, it is achievable.

What does a customs agent do?

A customs agent is responsible for inspecting and clearing goods and travelers through customs at borders or ports of entry. They verify documentation, ensure compliance with regulations, and may use tools like scanners or databases to detect prohibited items or fraud. The role often requires knowledge of customs laws and attention to detail.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,921 per year, or $53.8 per hour.
Customs Brokerage Agent

Customs Brokerage Agent

Expeditors

Brisbane, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Expeditors rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 358 rated logistics

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) 

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.

What Expeditors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom