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Customs Agent Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

GEODIS

Senior Ocean Import Agent

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$20.75 - $27/hr

The Ocean Import Agent is responsible for handling international ocean import shipments, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and providing timely and accurate service to clients. This role ...

GEODIS

Senior Ocean Import Agent

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$20.75 - $27/hr

The Ocean Import Agent is responsible for handling international ocean import shipments, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and providing timely and accurate service to clients. This role ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsCustoms Agent JobsCustoms Agent Jobs in Chicago, IL

Customs Agent information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$116.8K

$140.6K

How much do customs agent jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs agent in Chicago, IL is $116,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $138,600.00 and $139,100.00 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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Customs Agent jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Customs Agent jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Customs Agent jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Customs Agent job openings:

Customs Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Customs Agent job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,825 per year, or $56.2 per hour.

Air Cargo Office Agent ORD

Worldwide Flight Services

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Prepare flight documents, review, organize, and distribute them prior to flight arrival or departure.

  • Interface with U.S. Customs, process import and export documentation, and accept/distribute cargo in accordance with regulations.

  • Assist customers with retrieving documents and freight, collect charges, and process customs proof of delivery.

Worldwide Flight Services rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 68 rated aviation services

Job description

Air Cargo Office Agent ORD

About WFS

Join our Worldwide Flight Services family and contribute to the timely delivery of cargo shipment, business to customer delivery, and on-time flights while operating safely and securely. We perform at the highest level for our customers every day, and strive to be an exceptional leader in our industry with our teams of cargo, passenger, ramp handling, and technical service experts in 227 airport locations in 27 countries on 5 continents. Are you ready to take off on your next career with us?

Job Summary

The work of  Cargo Office Agent includes computer data entry; prepares all flight documents; interfaces with U.S. Customs; prepares all import and export documentation, and accepts/distributes cargo in accordance with applicable air carrier and Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.  Complies lists of customers for use as sales leads.  Solicits orders or talks with customers to complete sales.  Quotes prices and terms and prepares sales contracts for orders obtained.  Estimates date of delivery to customer, based on knowledge of company's delivery schedules.  Moves cargo up to 70lbs.  Comply with WFS site security procedures for assigned warehouse and other operations.  Remain cognizant of WFS staff, security contractors, and visitors' activities and report security breaches, suspicious occurrences, or non-compliance with the site security plan to managers or via the WFS whistleblower program. 

Curious to learn more about what we do, please click the link below:

https://jobs.wfs.aero/content/Day-In-The-Life-Cargo/?locale=en_US

Responsibilities

  • Ability to handle the stress of a fast-paced eight-hour shift.
  • Ability to drive all cargo handling equipment.
  • Prepare documentation prior to flight arrival or flight departure, review, organize, make copies and distribute accordingly.
  • Travel to Airport Operational Area (AOA) to meet flight upon arrival or departure of flight to retrieve or drop off flight documents.
  • Notify Broker or Freight Forwarder on the Master Airway Bill (MAWB) of shipment's arrival at warehouse facility or on hold.
  • Provide assistance to customers arriving to retrieve their documents and freight.
  • Collect appropriate charges and document method of payment.
  • Process "Customs Out" (proof of delivery) for every transaction before the customer's departure.
  • Assist in completion of MAWBS for over-the-counter shipments.
  • Confirm all bookings are accepted
  • Confirm TSA mandatory screening.
  • Data capture AWB information into airline system(s).
  • Manifest flight based on information received from the warehouse.
  • Print flight manifest, cargo pallet message, deadload and NOTOC and deliver to the aircraft.
  • Verify post flight inventory with documents on hand.
  • File maintenance of all pertinent documents and records.
  • Prepare various reports (Irregularity, Weekly Import and/or Export Statistics)
  • Answer incoming calls and responds to emails.
  • Demonstrate diligence required to maintain security under the Airport Police, TSA and United States
  • Retrieve import/deliver export documents to and from aircraft.

Minimum Requirements

  • HS Diploma, GED or Equivalent
  • Must have a valid driver's license
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Ability to work rotating shifts including weekends (i.e., Friday, Saturday and Sunday), holidays and days off.

Preferred Skills

  • Ability to read, write, fluently speak and understand the English language.
  • Minimum typing speed of 50 WPM.
  • Ability to concentrate on detail.
  • Ability to learn PC skills and apply knowledge.

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. No exceptions.

Perks & Benefits

  • Want your pay in advance?  Access your pay when you need it through DailyPay app!
  • Are you a top performer who thrives on recognition?  On the spot awards offered through the Awardco Platform including gift cards and more!
  • Need quality medical care?   Multiple options for both full and part-time employees!
  • Want WFS Employee Extras? Travel Discounts, Pet insurance, Discount Shopping & More!
  • Looking to stay healthy and improve your life?  Wellness Programs offered to all employees!
  • Want to invest in your future?  401k program offered!
  • Looking to grow and have a career with us?  Opportunity for Internal Mobility and transfers available!

WFS is an equal opportunity employer committed to employment equity and inclusion. We accept applications from all qualified individuals.

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