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Customs Attorney Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Percy Towers

Customs Broker

Washington, DC

$140K - $160K/yr

Collaborating with attorneys, specialists, and clients to deliver accurate, timely, and strategic outcomes Qualifications Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university Customs ...

Attorney | ICE

General Attorney

Washington, DC

$85K/yr

S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA ... attorneys, and agency senior leadership, and must be able to tailor communications to a particular ...

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 Jul 17, 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, and why are they important?

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 are customs attorneys?

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,369 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Customs Broker

Percy Towers

Washington, DC

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Customs Specialist / International Trade Compliance Professional

(Title and compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications)

Location: Washington, DC (with international travel)

Schedule: 1,800 - 2,000 hours per year

Salary Band:

  • $140,000 - $160,000 (non-licensed)
  • $160,00-$190,000 (licensed broker)
  • $200,000+ (licensed attorneys)


This law firm is home to highly motivated professionals distinguished by intellectual rigor, technical excellence, and a shared commitment to superior client service. The Customs Specialist plays a critical role in advising clients on complex import and trade compliance matters while contributing to a collaborative, high-performance environment focused on continuous improvement.


Highly preferred to have a Licensed U.S. Customs Broker or licensed practitioners of Law.


Key Responsibilities

The Customs Specialist will provide substantive analysis and practical guidance across a broad range of customs and trade matters, including:

  • Tariff classification, customs valuation, country-of-origin determinations, and entry requirements
  • Identification of duty drawback opportunities and duty/fee savings strategies
  • Advising on CBP automated systems, including ACE, post-entry audits, and focused assessment audits
  • Supporting the design and implementation of compliance solutions, with an emphasis on automation and process optimization
  • Assisting with due diligence reviews, privilege reviews, and audits of client records and files
  • Conducting legal and factual research related to customs laws, regulations, markets, and industry standards
  • Coordinating filings and communications with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other government agencies
  • Collaborating with attorneys, specialists, and clients to deliver accurate, timely, and strategic outcomes


Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university

Customs Broker License strongly preferred. Trade Compliance Specialists or Import Specialists will be considered.


Substantial experience in customs and international trade compliance, including roles such as:

  • Licensed Customs Broke
  • U.S. Customs Auditor
  • Hands-on experience with CBP’s ACE Portal
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly and precisely
  • Strong research capabilities, including regulatory and factual analysis
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Access
  • Willingness to travel as required, internationally.


This role rewards precision, judgment, and intellectual stamina. It suits someone who enjoys living at the intersection of law, logistics, and systems—where a single classification decision can ripple across global supply chains.