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Customs Agent Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Prolog Inc.

Gate Agent - Part Time

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$20.91/hr

As a Gate Agent with ProLog, Inc., you will play a vital role in providing Air Mobility Command ... Safely escort unaccompanied minors through customs and immigration, managing their custody during ...

Unifi

Airport Customer Service Agent Bilingual-IAD

Sterling, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

Airport Customer Service Agent Bilingual-IAD Unifi Aviation, LLC is seeking individuals to join our ... Direct passengers through Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine. * Assist ramp agents to ensure that ...

Unifi

Airport Customer Service Agent Bilingual-IAD

Sterling, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

General information Job Title Airport Customer Service Agent Bilingual-IAD Date Monday, July 6, ... Direct passengers through Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine. * Assist ramp agents to ensure that ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsCustoms Agent JobsCustoms Agent Jobs in Washington

Customs Agent information

See Washington salary details

$40.2K

$128.4K

$154.6K

How much do customs agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs agent in Washington is $128,443.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $152,300.00 and $152,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 $60,000, with experienced agents or those in high-cost areas earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and certifications, and the job often involves working in security screening and inspection environments.

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 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 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.

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 be competitive and may involve physical and written exams, but with the right qualifications and preparation, it is achievable.
What are popular job titles related to Customs Agent jobs in Washington? For Customs Agent jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Customs Agent jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Customs Agent jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Customs Agent jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Customs Agent job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Customs Agent jobs in WA? For Customs Agent jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Customs Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Customs Agent job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,443 per year, or $61.8 per hour.

Customs Brokerage Customer Service

Expeditors

Elkridge, MD • On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Expeditors rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 359 rated logistics

Job description

Company Description
Expeditors is a leader in the international transportation industry and has opportunities for motivated team players who are looking for a challenging and rewarding place to work. Expeditors culture of organic growth and promotion from within, combined with a strong management team and unique compensation structure, continuously attracts the highest caliber employees.
By recruiting, motivating and retaining the best personnel in the business, we feel we will keep our leadership position in the marketplace. Our business is quality customer service and our people are what make that happen. We hire individuals based on attitude and train them for the skills it takes to make a successful career here. As part of their career development and overall job evaluation, our employees are required to take a minimum of 52 hours of training per year.
Job Description
Scope of Position:
Ensure the proper and timely movement and clearance of freight, while providing an exceptional customer service within the Customs Brokerage department.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Ensure smooth and timely customs process flow.
  • Ensure accurate and timely client billing.
  • Understand all the elements of the import and export customs DLSOP (Desk Level Standard Operating Procedure) and correctly interpret this information to fulfill our customers' instructions and expectations.
  • Ensure accurate and timely data entry into our operating system.
  • Transpose customs declaration information from documents, or other sources into the customs entry system to allow for the build of a valid customs declaration.
  • Assist with verification of customs declaration information and the submission of such to the customs authority.
  • Track and trace Customs files.
  • Interact with customs authorities to address any issues/questions that may arise during the clearing process.
  • Attend any customs inspections or present documents to customs authorities when such are requested.
  • Act as the liaison between the customs authorities (or other government agencies and customers)
  • Ensure timely customs clearance of cargo to customer for Import and Export shipments.
  • Verify documents received for Import and Export customs purposes are compliant and correct.
  • Interact with our customers in arranging their international shipments, meeting customer service standards.
  • Contribute to maintain strong relationships with customs officers.
  • Ensure compliance at all times to regulations. This includes internal policies and procedures such as Operational Process Standards (OPS) and external government regulations (eg. OEA) or customer policies / requirements.
  • Understand department process flow, constantly looking for areas of improved efficiency.
  • Keep up to date on all regulatory requirements governing the import and export of goods. This includes but is not limited to customs procedures for imports and exports, other government agency requirements i.e. health, agricultural, police and military, export controls and prohibited and restricted goods.
  • Meet KPI standards, as per the company's procedures.
  • Overseas communications, timely responses to emails and requests (internal and external)

Qualifications
  • 6 months to 1 year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Good knowledge of customs brokerage processes and systems
  • Good knowledge of customs legislation, especially with regards to classification, valuation and origin.
  • Understanding of ocean and air documentation process.
  • Knowledge of air, road and ocean transport.
  • Good knowledge of incoterms
  • Effective interpersonal skills, including proven abilities to listen, comprehend, effectively communicate clearly and concisely to obtain positive results.
  • Pro-active, strong organizational skills.
  • Computer skills
  • Fluent in English

Additional Information
Expected base salary $21-$24 per hour
May be eligible for bonus following first year of continuous employment in position.
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)
  • Training and Personnel Development Program
  • Educational Assistance and Reimbursement

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

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