1

Customs Associate Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Just ask any of our over 27,000 associates who work at Five Below and they'll tell you there's no ... Five Below is seeking a Specialist, Customs & Global Trade to join our Customs & Global Trade Team.

New

Job Summary The Associate Counsel, Cable Legal Compliance, role is responsible for building and ... Provide guidance and legal advice on US customs and import law, export controls (EAR), and OFAC ...

Job Summary The Associate Counsel, Cable Legal Compliance, role is responsible for building and ... Provide guidance and legal advice on US customs and import law, export controls (EAR), and OFAC ...

Job Summary The Associate Counsel, Cable Legal Compliance, role is responsible for building and ... Provide guidance and legal advice on US customs and import law, export controls (EAR), and OFAC ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Customs Associate information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Customs Associate?

To thrive as a Customs Associate, you need a solid understanding of import/export regulations, customs documentation, and trade compliance, usually supported by relevant education or certifications in logistics or international trade. Familiarity with customs clearance software, tariff classification tools, and government trade portals is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing complex documentation and client interactions. These competencies ensure efficient clearance processes, minimize compliance risks, and maintain smooth global supply chain operations.

What are some common challenges a Customs Associate may face when ensuring compliance with international shipping regulations?

Customs Associates often encounter challenges such as staying up to date with frequently changing import/export regulations, managing complex documentation requirements, and addressing discrepancies in shipment information. Navigating these issues requires strong attention to detail and effective communication with both internal teams and external agencies. Additionally, Customs Associates must work efficiently under time constraints to prevent shipment delays and avoid costly penalties for non-compliance.

What is the difference between Customs Associate vs Customs Clerk?

AspectCustoms AssociateCustoms Clerk
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may prefer certifications in customs proceduresHigh school diploma; familiarity with customs documentation often preferred
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, shipping docks, import/export officesCustoms offices, shipping facilities, import/export departments
Employer & Industry UsageLogistics companies, freight forwarders, import/export firmsCustoms agencies, freight companies, import/export businesses
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Customs Associates and Customs Clerks both handle customs documentation and compliance, often working in similar environments within logistics and import/export industries. While their roles overlap, Customs Associates may have broader responsibilities, including customer service and coordination, whereas Customs Clerks typically focus on processing customs paperwork. Both roles require familiarity with customs regulations and documentation, making them closely related in the supply chain process.

Is it hard to get a job with customs?

Getting a job as a Customs Associate can vary depending on the employer and location, but generally requires relevant experience, knowledge of customs regulations, and sometimes certifications. Entry-level positions may be accessible with basic training, while more advanced roles may require specialized skills and experience in logistics or international trade.

What does a customs associate do?

A customs associate is responsible for processing and reviewing shipments to ensure compliance with import and export regulations. They handle documentation, coordinate with customs authorities, and use tracking systems to facilitate the clearance of goods through customs. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of customs laws are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Customs jobs in Pennsylvania?

The most popular types of Customs jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Customs Associate jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Customs Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Customs Associate job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Tax Experienced Associate, Customs & International Trade

BDO

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


BDO USA rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 22 rated bookkeepers and accountants


Job description

Job Summary:

The Tax Experienced Associate, Customs & International Trade will begin to utilize basic research skills and apply their educational background to identify potential trade issues and opportunities.  This role provides advice to clients in a variety of industries on import and export matters.

Job Duties:

  • Technical Duties
    • Researches and assists in writing, and reviewing international trade advice in areas relating to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, customs federal regulations, NAFTA, entry processes and customs valuation
    • Researches U.S. and international import and export trade matters 
    • Ability to formulate ideas and delivers possible trade savings opportunities
    • Works with other Firm specialists and client service teams on client and proposal work 
    • May collaborate on organizing and conducting effective internal CPE training sessions in the area of specialization
    • Ability to establish relationships with BDO customs experts in jurisdictions throughout BDO International
    • Ability to identify opportunities for and assists in drafting tax alerts in international customs and global trade tax matters
    • Assists in managing client expectations
  • Other duties as required

Supervisory Responsibilities:

  • May acts as mentor to Interns, as appropriate

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics or other related field, required 
  • Juris Doctorate degree, LLM, and/or MBA, preferred

Experience:

  • One (1) or more years of experience in tax, legal, customs or import/export trade required 
  • Experience as either a customs attorney, customs broker, industry trade specialist, US Customs auditor or import specialist, preferred

License/Certifications:

  • CPA and/or JD, preferred

Software:

  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel and PowerPoint, required
  • Experience utilizing RIA, BNA, Lexis Nexis, required 

Language:

  • N/A

Other Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong analytical skills and basic legal and tax research skills including building models and analysis of financial and numerical data
  • Solid organizational skills, especially ability to meet project deadlines with a focus on details
  • Ability to successfully multi-task while working independently or within a group environment
  • Capable of working in a deadline-driven environment 
  • Capable of effectively managing a team of tax professionals and delegating work assignments as needed
  • Capacity to build and maintain strong relationships with client personnel
  • Ability to successfully interact with professionals at all levels
  • Basic understanding of the technical and practical issues and opportunities regarding one or more areas of taxation and law

Individual salaries that are offered to a candidate are determined after consideration of numerous factors including but not limited to the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and geography.

National Range: $63,000 - $115,500
Maryland Range: $63,000 - $115,500
NYC/Long Island/Westchester Range: $63,000 - $115,500
Washington DC Range: $63,000 - $115,500

At BDO, how we show up matters. We build strong relationships by supporting one another, our clients, and our communities with care, curiosity, and a commitment to helping one another grow and succeed. Here, you'll find meaningful work, leaders invested in your success, and opportunities to build a career around what matters most to you.

Our purpose is to be the people our clients count on to grow with confidence and achieve what matters most. Our values guide how we bring that purpose to life each day. Together, they shape how we work with one another, serve our clients, and create meaningful impact.

BDO provides assurance, tax, and advisory services to clients across the U.S. and around the world. No matter your role, you'll be part of a team helping clients navigate complexity and move forward with clarity.

We are proud to be an ESOP company, offering participants a stake in the firm's success through beneficial ownership and a unique opportunity to enhance their financial well-being. As a qualified retirement plan, the ESOP is a meaningful addition to our comprehensive compensation and Total Rewards benefits* offerings. It also reinforces an ownership mindset that strengthens our connection to one another, our clients, and the future we're building together.

Learn more about our benefits: BDO Total Rewards encompass more than traditional benefits. Click here to find out more!

*Benefits may be subject to eligibility requirements.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets
Click here to find out more!


What BDO USA employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


BDO logo

About BDO

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At BDO, culture is the first order of business. We succeed when we cultivate a conscious and caring corporate culture that puts people at the center of everything we do. In essence, the business of our business is to help people thrive every day. This mindset powers our growth by supporting the development of our people, the success of our clients, and the betterment of our communities. It means taking an expansive view of what’s possible, and committing ourselves to achieving exceptional outcomes. At BDO, we are cultivating a culture where our professionals thrive in their work of providing middle market leaders with insight-driven perspectives and assurance, tax and advisory services, helping companies take business as usual to better than usual.

Industry

Administrative assistance services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US