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Customs Attorney Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Immigrants First PLLC

Immigration Attorney

Manassas, VA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Board of ... Additionally, the Attorney represents clients before USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration ...

Immigrants First PLLC

Immigration Attorney

Manassas, VA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Board of ... Additionally, the Attorney represents clients before USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration ...

Offices, Boards and Divisions

Trial Attorney

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$121K - $197K/yr

... and customs laws, cheat our tax system, or threaten the financial integrity of the United States or its citizens. Through our rigorous training and development program, attorneys assigned to the ...

Immigrants First PLLC

Immigration Attorney

Manassas, VA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Board of ... Additionally, the Attorney represents clients before USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration ...

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All JobsCustoms Attorney JobsCustoms Attorney Jobs in Washington

Customs Attorney information

See Washington salary details

$45.9K

$111.4K

$217.5K

How much do customs attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs attorney in Washington is $111,369.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $135,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Customs Attorney vs Customs Broker?

AspectCustoms AttorneyCustoms Broker
Required CredentialsLaw degree, bar admission, specialized knowledge of customs lawsLicense issued by customs authorities, knowledge of import/export regulations
Work EnvironmentLegal firms, government agencies, corporate legal departmentsFreight forwarders, import/export companies, customs brokerage firms
Employer & Industry UsageLegal advice, compliance, litigation related to customs lawsFacilitating import/export clearance, documentation, tariff classification

While both Customs Attorneys and Customs Brokers work within the customs and import/export industry, Customs Attorneys focus on legal advice, compliance, and litigation, requiring a law degree and bar admission. Customs Brokers handle the practical aspects of customs clearance, requiring a license and knowledge of regulations. They often collaborate but serve different roles in international trade compliance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a customs attorney?

To thrive as a Customs Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, admission to the bar, and expertise in customs law, trade regulations, and import/export compliance. Familiarity with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) procedures, Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), and trade databases is essential, and certifications like Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, negotiation skills, and attention to detail, along with the ability to communicate complex regulations clearly, distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are vital to ensure clients remain compliant with evolving trade laws, avoid costly penalties, and navigate the complexities of international commerce.

What are some common challenges customs attorneys face when navigating international trade regulations?

Customs Attorneys often encounter challenges such as keeping up with frequently changing import/export regulations, interpreting complex tariff classifications, and resolving disputes between clients and customs authorities. The role requires a strong attention to detail and the ability to quickly analyze new trade agreements or regulatory updates. Additionally, Customs Attorneys must effectively communicate with government agencies, clients, and sometimes foreign counsel to ensure compliance and resolve issues efficiently.

What is a customs attorney?

Customs attorneys are legal professionals who specialize in laws and regulations related to the import and export of goods across international borders. They assist businesses and individuals in complying with customs regulations, resolving disputes with customs authorities, and representing clients in cases involving customs violations or penalties. Their expertise includes tariff classifications, duty assessments, trade agreements, and import/export documentation. Customs attorneys help clients navigate complex customs laws to avoid costly delays, fines, or legal issues. They may also advise on matters of international trade compliance and supply chain management.
What are popular job titles related to Customs Attorney jobs in Washington? For Customs Attorney jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Customs Attorney jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Customs Attorney jobs in Washington are:
Customs Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Customs Attorney job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $111,369 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

International Trade & Regulatory Compliance Staff Attorney (Customs & Import Compliance)

Direct Counsel

Washington, DC • On-site

$135K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Direct Counsel is seeking an International Trade & Regulatory Compliance Staff Attorney to join a highly regarded International Trade practice in Washington, DC. This is an outstanding opportunity for an attorney interested in customs law, import compliance, and international trade regulations while working alongside experienced practitioners on sophisticated cross-border compliance matters.

The ideal candidate will have experience advising on customs and import compliance issues or a strong background in import/export regulations through government, corporate, law firm, or customs brokerage experience.

Location
  • Washington, DC
Responsibilities
  • Advise clients on U.S. customs and import compliance matters.
  • Assist with regulatory compliance issues involving imports and international trade.
  • Support clients with customs-related filings, audits, and compliance reviews.
  • Research and analyze U.S. customs laws, regulations, and agency guidance.
  • Prepare legal memoranda, correspondence, and client advisories.
  • Collaborate with partners and counsel on complex international trade matters.
  • Monitor developments in customs and trade regulations affecting client operations.
Qualifications
  • J.D. from an accredited law school.
  • Active membership in the District of Columbia Bar.
  • Strong academic credentials.
  • Excellent legal research, analytical, and writing skills.
  • Interest in international trade, customs law, and regulatory compliance.
Preferred Qualifications

Experience in one or more of the following:

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • Corporate import/export compliance
  • Law firm international trade or customs practice
  • Customs brokerage or trade compliance
  • Import/export regulatory compliance
  • Foreign language proficiency is a plus.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary: $135,000–$170,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Life and disability insurance.
  • Flexible spending accounts.
  • 401(k) and profit-sharing plan.
  • Generous paid time off.
  • Wellness program.
  • Mentorship, professional development, and long-term career growth.
Why This Opportunity

This is an excellent opportunity to build a specialized international trade practice while working on sophisticated customs and import compliance matters for a diverse client base. Attorneys receive direct mentorship, meaningful responsibility, and the opportunity to develop deep expertise in a collaborative environment with one of the country's premier international trade practices.

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal talent with premier legal employers and fostering inclusive hiring practices.