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Customs Associate information

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Customs Associate, and why are they important?

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 is the highest paying customs job?

The highest paying customs-related roles are often senior positions such as Customs Manager or Customs Director, which require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of international trade regulations. These roles typically offer higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and expertise in compliance, logistics, and customs law.

Is it hard to get into customs?

Getting a Customs Associate position typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles may require knowledge of customs regulations or prior experience. The hiring process often involves background checks and may include training on customs procedures and compliance standards.

What does a customs associate do?

A customs associate is responsible for processing and reviewing shipments to ensure compliance with customs regulations, preparing necessary documentation, and coordinating with customs authorities. They often use specialized software and need knowledge of import/export laws to facilitate the smooth movement of goods across borders.

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.

Do customs brokers make a lot of money?

Customs brokers typically earn a moderate to high salary, with earnings influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of shipments handled. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced brokers with specialized knowledge can earn higher wages, often supplemented by commissions or bonuses. Overall, the profession offers competitive compensation within the logistics and import/export industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Customs jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Customs jobs in Washington are:
Customs Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Customs Associate job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
CBP Consultant (Associate Level)

CBP Consultant (Associate Level)

Eagle Hill Consulting

Arlington, VA • On-site

$72K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

About the Company
Eagle Hill is a nationally recognized, award-winning consulting firm, based in the Washington, DC area. We pride ourselves on our unconventional approach to solving business challenges, with a focus on delivering value above expectations. Our collective of talented consultants encourages each other to bring their unique perspectives and experiences to deliver impact-focused solutions for our clients. The result is a working environment that encourages bold thinking, collaboration and delivering client-centered solutions.
Job Description
Eagle Hill is proactively seeking Consulting Associate candidates to fill potential project roles for our U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) client. These projects will provide strategic, operational, and analytical support to enable CBP offices to modernize operations, enhance workforce programs, and improve mission delivery. Applicants must be willing and able to work on client sites within the Washington, DC metro area on a daily basis or as required by the client.
Anticipated project work may include Program and Project Management, Strategic Communications, Workforce Engagement, Data Analytics, Process Optimization, Change Management or other Eagle Hill service offerings.
At Eagle Hill, Associates grow their consulting skills through hands-on project delivery and client-facing work. They are expected to gain knowledge of clients and their business problems and contribute to team discussions, analysis, and solutions that help deliver impact for our clients.
Specific responsibilities will vary based on project role, but may include:
  • Supporting the development of client solutions through the full project lifecycle
  • Providing operational and/or project management support to clients
  • Developing and/or contributing to on-time and client-ready communications, presentations, and deliverables
  • Supporting data gathering, analysis and resulting recommendations
  • Facilitating the client's task management processes
  • Ensuring the timeliness and quality of task execution
  • Coordinating across departments and reviewing deliverables.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • A minimum of 3 years of work experience
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills and experience focused on achieving solution-based outcomes
  • Strong relationship-building and teamwork skills
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to be resourceful and take initiative
  • Proficient in MS Office Suite (including Excel and PowerPoint) and demonstrated ability to effectively use virtual collaboration tools (e.g., Microsoft Teams)
  • Technical aptitude; ability to quickly learn new technology platforms
  • Time management skills and the ability to meet deadlines across multiple priorities
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future
  • Ability to successfully obtain and retain a CBP Background Investigation (BI), as well as any other background investigations required to perform client work

Desired Qualifications
  • Active CBP BI or have held a CBP BI within the last two years
  • Data Analytics skills and experience with relevant platforms (e.g., PowerBI)
  • Strategic communications experience

Compensation: A reasonable expectation for a starting salary range is: $72-$85K. This range is based on the Washington, DC Metro area and varies based on geographic residence. Specific salary range will be based on experience, location, and the level at which an applicant is hired.
Benefits: Eagle Hill employees are eligible to participate in 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental and Vision plans, as well as in our 401(k) and commuter benefit programs. Employees may also be eligible for short- and long-term disability, life insurance, FSA, PTO, and annual bonus benefits. Employees are subject to the terms, conditions, and limitations of each benefit program and the applicable plan documents.
Application Process: We follow a competency-based and holistic interview approach designed to hire the most qualified candidates to join our team and position them for future success.
Eagle Hill Consulting, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
In compliance with the American with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request and accommodation in order to apply for a position with Eagle Hill Consulting, LLC, please call 703-229-8600 or e-mail careers@eaglehillconsulting.com.
Eagle Hill Consulting, LLC is an award-winning consultancy that provides management consulting services in the areas of strategy and performance, talent and change management. Eagle Hill works with a range of public, private, and non-profit organizations in the Washington, DC, Seattle, and Boston metropolitan areas and across the nation. A recognized leader, Eagle Hill has earned awards from the Washington Business Journal and Washingtonian as a top place to work. More information is available at www.eaglehillconsulting.com.

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