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Customs Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

ICF International, Inc.

Mail Services Associate

Reston, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Coordinate with customs and shipping vendors to clear international shipments as required. * Maintain strong working relationships with shipping partners, including FedEx, USPS, and DHL. Customer ...

ICF

Mail Services Associate

Reston, VA

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Coordinate with customs and shipping vendors to clear international shipments as required. * Maintain strong working relationships with shipping partners, including FedEx, USPS, and DHL. Customer ...

L3HHCM20

Senior Specialist, Trade Compliance

Arlington, VA · On-site

$73K - $135K/yr

S. customs compliance requirements, including import classification, valuation, country of origin, duty treatment, broker coordination, and entry-document review. * Familiarity with customs audit ...

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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 does a Customs Associate do?

A Customs Associate is responsible for ensuring that goods imported to or exported from a country comply with all relevant customs laws and regulations. They prepare and review shipping documents, classify goods according to tariff codes, and communicate with customs officials to facilitate the smooth movement of cargo. Their work helps prevent delays at borders and ensures that shipments are processed efficiently and lawfully. Customs Associates also stay updated on changes to customs regulations and may assist with audits or resolve compliance issues.

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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.
International Shipping Specialist

International Shipping Specialist

Fibertek, Inc

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

$20.25 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title
International Shipping Specialist
Location
Fort Belvoir, VA - Fort Belvoir, VA 22060 US (Primary)
Job Description
Fibertek, Inc. currently seeking a logistician familiar with international shipping to join our team at Fort Belvoir supporting the Humanitarian Demining Program. As a logistician with specialized experience in shipping heavy equipment, hazardous goods, and electronics to international destinations, the position requires responsibility for ensuring the efficient and secure transportation of critical goods around the world. Competence with international shipping regulations, customs procedures, and compliance will be essential in successfully executing complex logistics operations for the HD Program. Applicant must have or be able to obtain a Secret clearance.
Essential Job Duties:
  • Plan and coordinate the shipping of military-grade equipment, hazardous goods, electronics, and heavy machinery to international destinations, ensuring adherence to all relevant laws, regulations, and security protocols.
  • Collaborate with internal teams, suppliers, freight forwarders, and carriers to optimize transportation routes and ensure timely delivery of goods.
  • Prepare and manage preparation of shipping documents, including customs forms, export licenses, and other compliance documentation required for international shipments.
  • Monitor and track shipments in real-time, proactively resolving any logistical issues or delays to ensure seamless delivery.
  • Maintain accurate records of all logistics activities, including shipment details, costs, and delivery confirmations.
  • Stay informed about changes in international shipping regulations and adapt logistics processes accordingly.
  • Oversee the safe handling and packaging of hazardous goods, adhering to industry-specific safety standards and guidelines.
  • Provide expertise and guidance to internal teams regarding logistics best practices and cost-saving opportunities.
  • Manage and optimize inventory levels to ensure sufficient stock availability for international orders.
  • Continuously seek opportunities to improve efficiency in logistics operations and reduce shipping costs.
  • Support other general admin support tasks as they are presented.

Job Requirements
Experience and Expertise Required:
  • Associate or bachelor's degree or 1-2 of relevant job experience in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
  • Competent with shipping heavy equipment, hazardous goods and electronics, to international destinations. Certifications in handling hazardous goods is desirable.
  • Knowledge of international shipping regulations, customs procedures.
  • Ability to select an appropriate freight forwarder, coordinate pickup and monitor progress of shipments to delivery.
  • Export-import compliance (desired but not required to begin). Familiarity with the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), HAZMAT regulations /requirements, licensing procedures via the Bureau of Industry and Security, and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) as they apply to items on the US Munitions List.
  • Understanding of different modes of transportation, including air, sea, and land freight.
  • Proficient in using logistics management software and tools for tracking and monitoring shipments.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with diverse teams and external partners.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail to ensure accurate documentation and record-keeping.
  • Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team, with a focus on achieving common goals.
  • Experience in negotiating contracts with carriers and freight forwarders is a plus.
  • Certifications in shipment of hazardous goods is desired not initially required.
  • Experience with the Microsoft suite of tools (MS Office, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.).

FIBERTEK, Inc. is a recognized leader in advanced lasers, lidars and laser communication systems providing our DoD, NASA and aerospace customers discriminating capabilities. We pride ourselves in our innovation and customer success focused culture enabled by a creative and relaxed work environment. Fibertek fosters a progressive learning environment that values inspiration, promotes professional challenge and encourages personal growth. We offer a competitive and incentivized compensation package with excellent benefits.
Fibertek, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and experience. Fibertek does not engage in nor permits any discrimination in the workplace.

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