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Customs Agent Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Expeditors

Senior Customs Brokerage Agent

Auburn, WA · On-site

The Senior Customs Brokerage Agent is a key operational and technical resource within the U.S. Import Brokerage team. This role combines customer account management, customs brokerage expertise ...

Expeditors

Senior Customs Brokerage Agent

Federal Way, WA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

The Senior Customs Brokerage Agent is a key operational and technical resource within the U.S. Import Brokerage team. This role combines customer account management, customs brokerage expertise ...

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Customs Agent information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$39.6K

$126.6K

$152.4K

How much do customs agent jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs agent in Federal Way, WA is $126,644.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $150,200.00 and $150,800.00 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 Federal Way, WA? For Customs Agent jobs in Federal Way, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Customs Agent jobs in Federal Way, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Customs Agent jobs in Federal Way, WA are:
Customs Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Customs Agent job openings in Federal Way, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,644 per year, or $60.9 per hour.

Senior Customs Brokerage Agent

Expeditors

Auburn, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

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

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!

Job Description

Summary Description:

The Senior Customs Brokerage Agent is a key operational and technical resource within the U.S. Import Brokerage team. This role combines customer account management, customs brokerage expertise, mentoring, compliance support, and process improvement. The successful candidate will serve as a subject matter expert, trusted customer advisor, and mentor while helping drive operational excellence and a positive team culture.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage a portfolio of import brokerage accounts of varying size and complexity.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for customers on brokerage operations, compliance requirements, and service-related issues.
  • Support onboarding and implementation of new brokerage accounts.
  • Communicate with U.S. Customs and Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) regarding examinations, holds, releases, and regulatory requirements.
  • Act as a liaison between Compliance and Operations by translating regulatory requirements into practical operational guidance.
  • Mentor and train Customer Service Representatives on brokerage processes, customer service, and compliance-related procedures.
  • Partner with analysts and operational teams to drive process improvements, create templates, improve data quality, and increase efficiency.
  • Maintain and update SOPs, rate schedules, process documentation, and account-specific work instructions.
  • Support timely resolution of debits, credits, and other account financial activities.
  • Serve as a resource for troubleshooting complex brokerage transactions and operational challenges.

Position Allocation

  • 50-75% Customer Account Management and Brokerage Operations
  • 25-50% Mentoring, Training, Process Improvement, Customer Onboarding, and Departmental Leadership Initiatives

What Success Looks Like

The Senior Customs Brokerage Agent is recognized as:

  • A trusted advisor to customers.
  • A technical expert for complex brokerage matters.
  • A bridge between Compliance and Operations.
  • A mentor who develops future brokerage talent.
  • A collaborative leader who strengthens team culture and drives continuous improvement.
Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

  • Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible brokerage experience.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Current U.S. Customs Broker License
  • Certified Import Clearance Specialist (CICS) Certification
  • Dangerous Goods Certification
  • Previous mentoring, training, or leadership experience
  • Experience communicating directly with CBP and PGAs

Additional Information

Expected Salary Range: $40-$50/hour

Expeditors offers excellent benefits:

  • Paid Vacation (first year prorated based off month of hire)
  • 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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