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Customs And Border Protection Jobs in California

S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), customs brokers, clients, and internal departments. This position ensures timely delivery and retrieval of documents, assists with shipment processing, and ...

S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), customs brokers, clients, and internal departments. This position ensures timely delivery and retrieval of documents, assists with shipment processing, and ...

S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), customs brokers, clients, and internal departments. This position ensures timely delivery and retrieval of documents, assists with shipment processing, and ...

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Customs And Border Protection information

See California salary details

$39K

$117.9K

$156.4K

How much do customs and border protection jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs and border protection in California is $117,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $135,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Customs and Border Protection officers face during their shifts?

Customs and Border Protection officers often encounter challenges such as working long or irregular hours, adapting to rapidly changing situations at ports of entry, and maintaining vigilance in high-stress environments. Officers must be prepared to interact with diverse travelers, sometimes in tense or uncertain circumstances, while upholding laws and regulations. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and situational awareness are essential to overcome these daily challenges and ensure border security.

How to get a job with customs and border protection?

To work with Customs and Border Protection, applicants must meet eligibility requirements, pass background checks, and complete a series of assessments and interviews. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require specialized skills or certifications such as a security clearance. Applying through the official government job portal and preparing for physical and written tests are essential steps in the hiring process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Customs and Border Protection Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Customs and Border Protection Officer, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement principles, strong decision-making abilities, and typically must pass background checks and complete federal training programs. Familiarity with inspection technologies, surveillance equipment, and CBP databases is required to effectively monitor and process travelers and cargo. Outstanding interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and stress management set individuals apart in this demanding environment. These competencies are vital for ensuring border security, facilitating lawful trade and travel, and upholding national safety.

What kind of jobs are at CBP?

Jobs at Customs and Border Protection include roles such as Customs Officer, Border Patrol Agent, Transportation Security Officer, and Intelligence Analyst. These positions often require physical fitness, background checks, and specialized training, and involve enforcing laws related to border security, immigration, and trade.

What is the difference between Customs And Border Protection vs Customs Officer?

AspectCustoms And Border ProtectionCustoms Officer
Primary RoleEnforces laws at borders, manages immigration and trade complianceInspects goods and travelers, enforces customs regulations
Work EnvironmentBorder crossings, airports, ports, and inland facilitiesBorder checkpoints, ports, airports, and cargo areas
Required CredentialsU.S. citizenship, background check, sometimes specialized trainingU.S. citizenship, background check, training programs
EmployerU.S. Customs and Border Protection agencyU.S. Customs and Border Protection agency

Customs And Border Protection is a federal agency overseeing border security and immigration enforcement, while Customs Officers are frontline personnel working within this agency to inspect travelers and goods. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, but CBP has broader responsibilities including policy enforcement and border security management.

What does a Customs and Border Protection officer do?

A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer is responsible for protecting the United States’ borders by preventing illegal immigration, drug smuggling, human trafficking, and other threats. They inspect people and goods entering and leaving the country at ports of entry, such as airports, seaports, and land border crossings. CBP officers enforce customs, immigration, and agricultural laws, ensuring the safety and security of the nation while facilitating lawful international travel and trade.

Is it hard to get a job with CBP?

Getting a job with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can be competitive, as it requires meeting specific eligibility criteria, passing background checks, and completing training. Candidates often need relevant experience, security clearances, and physical fitness assessments, which can make the hiring process challenging but achievable with proper preparation.

How much does a CBP get paid?

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers typically earn a starting salary of around $52,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and rank. With experience and promotions, salaries can increase to over $80,000 annually, and benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay.
What job categories do people searching Customs And Border Protection jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Customs And Border Protection jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Customs And Border Protection jobs? Cities in California with the most Customs And Border Protection job openings:
Infographic showing various Customs And Border Protection job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,893 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

US Customs Entry Writer

RICHARD G FLEISCHER JR

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

 
We are seeking a detail-oriented US Customs Entry Writer to join our U.S. Customs Brokerage team. In this role, you will handle the preparation, filing, tracking, and management of  shipments and related documentation, while ensuring full compliance with U.S. Customs and CBP regulations. You’ll collaborate with carriers, port officials, and clients, as well as our internal brokerage and operations teams, to keep shipments moving smoothly and on schedule.
 
  • Prepare and file Entries 
  • Monitor and track shipments; ensure  movements are completed and/or closed out
  • Liaise with ports, carriers, inland terminals, and customs/CBP to troubleshoot bond issues or delays
  • Review and validate shipping documents, invoices, manifests, and supporting data
  • Ensure classification, valuation, tariff, and bonded transportation costs are accurate and compliant
  • Work with licensed brokers and internal teams to support audit readiness.
  • Maintain accurate records, filing systems, and databases
  • Keep up to date with relevant regulations, rulings, and policy changes impacting entry and transit shipments
  • Assist with related customs/entry writing tasks as needed
 
  • 1–3 years’ experience in customs brokerage, international trade, or logistics,
  • Working knowledge of U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) regulations (19 CFR)
  • Experience in preparing entry writing, transit movements, or bonded warehouse operations
  • Strong attention to detail and data accuracy
  • Good organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills
  • Ability to coordinate with multiple parties (carriers, ports, customs, internal)
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and CargoWise
  • Excellent communication (verbal and written)
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines
 
  • Prior experience in the Los Angeles / Southern California import environment
  • Familiarity with import/export systems and customs brokerage software (e.g., ACE / ABI, AMS, ACS)
  • Customs brokerage license or coursework
  • Prior exposure to CBP audits, CF28/CF29 responses, or customs compliance
  • Spanish / bilingual skills (helpful)Â