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Customs Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

$109K/yr

Customs Inspector, GS-1890; Immigration Inspector, GS-1816; Canine Enforcement Officer, GS-1801; or CBP Officer, GS-1895 . You must: * Meet all qualification requirements, including education if ...

US Department of Homeland Security

$109K/yr

Customs Inspector, GS-1890; Immigration Inspector, GS-1816; Canine Enforcement Officer, GS-1801; or CBP Officer, GS-1895 . You must: * Meet all qualification requirements, including education if ...

Align Technology

Lead Customs Specialist, US

San Jose, CA · On-site

$110K - $151K/yr

... or inspections and take action to support resolution. • Support multi leg parcel shipments and coordination with carriers and customs brokers. • Apply sound judgment to resolve complex or ...

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How much do customs inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for customs inspector in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in customs?

The highest paying roles within customs agencies are typically senior positions such as Customs Director or Chief Customs Officer, which require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often specialized certifications. These roles oversee operations, policy implementation, and enforcement, and can earn significantly higher salaries compared to entry-level inspector positions.

What are Customs Inspectors?

Customs Inspectors are government officials responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to the import and export of goods at borders, airports, and seaports. They inspect luggage, cargo, and vehicles to detect illegal or restricted items such as drugs, weapons, and undeclared goods. Customs Inspectors also verify documentation, collect duties and taxes, and help prevent smuggling and trafficking. Their work helps ensure national security and compliance with trade laws.

What does a customs inspector do?

A customs inspector is responsible for examining travelers' luggage, cargo, and shipments to enforce import and export laws, prevent illegal items from entering or leaving a country, and collect duties or taxes. They use inspection tools and may require certification or training to perform security screenings and identify prohibited goods.

What qualifications do I need for customs?

To become a customs inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require a college degree or relevant experience. Applicants must pass background checks, drug tests, and physical assessments, and often need to complete specialized training or certification related to customs procedures and security protocols.

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

To thrive as a Customs Inspector, you need a solid understanding of customs regulations, investigative techniques, and often a bachelor's degree or relevant law enforcement experience. Familiarity with customs processing systems, X-ray scanners, and risk assessment tools is typically required, along with any necessary government certifications. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective interpersonal communication are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the accurate enforcement of laws, facilitate efficient border control, and help prevent illegal activities such as smuggling.

How do you become a customs inspector?

To become a customs inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete specialized training provided by the hiring agency. Some positions may require prior law enforcement or security experience, and applicants often must pass written exams and physical assessments.

What are some common challenges Customs Inspectors face during their daily inspections?

Customs Inspectors often encounter challenges such as identifying concealed or improperly declared items, managing high volumes of travelers or shipments, and staying current with constantly changing regulations. They must balance efficiency with thoroughness, ensuring that they do not disrupt trade or traveler flow while still preventing illegal activities. Additionally, working in diverse environments—from airports to shipping docks—requires strong adaptability and communication skills, especially when collaborating with other agencies or handling stressful situations.

What is the difference between Customs Inspector vs Customs Officer?

AspectCustoms InspectorCustoms Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training; sometimes certifications in inspection proceduresSimilar credentials; often includes training in customs laws and inspection techniques
Work EnvironmentBorder crossings, airports, ports; inspecting goods and travelersBorder stations, customs offices; enforcing customs regulations
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies at ports, airports, border crossingsSame as Customs Inspector, often overlapping roles

Customs Inspectors and Customs Officers share similar credentials and work environments, primarily focusing on inspecting goods and travelers at borders and ports. While their roles may differ slightly in scope or specific duties, they are often employed interchangeably within government agencies to enforce customs laws and regulations.

More about Customs Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Customs Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Customs Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Customs Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Customs Inspector jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Customs Inspector jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Customs Inspector jobs are:
Customs Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Customs Inspector job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,905 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Operations Rail Clerk - CN Customs & Transborder

International Bulk Services

Ranier, MN • On-site

$22.98/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Summary:
The Transborder Operations Clerk positions is responsible to facilitate the train reports to US and Canada customs, assist to present cargo for Customs inspection, and secure the fluidity of cargo across the border. This full time position will require the successful candidate to fulfill product transfer orders in accordance with company policy and safety regulations in all related physical inventory management and quality control activities in the safest, most efficient way possible.
Main Job Responsibilities including but not limited to:
  • Generate train consists and work orders for train crews
  • Communicate with rail crews via radio to facilitate rail movements
  • Coordinate clearances of international train traffic with Customs
  • Review intermodal trains for release loading opportunities and Custom's holds
  • Ability to communicate with customers/customs brokers regarding customs holds
  • Labourer duties; loading and unloading of goods for Custom's inspections
  • Use of forklift, intermodal crane, shunt truck, terminal tractor and other equipment
  • Spot released containers to have accessible when train arrives
  • Investigate proper pad and spotting order for the conductor
  • Assess flat car weights and train's HPT to maintain TSP
  • Perform live lift inspection with Customs
  • Load containers to chassis and truck to warehouse for customs inspections
  • Complete required training and certifications necessary to perform duties safely and effectively
  • Abide safety regulations, PPE requirements, terminal processes and procedures, and accurately complete all required paperwork

Minimum Requirements:
  • High school or GED equivalent;
  • Valid driver's license;
  • Working proficiency with MS Office applications.
  • Labourer, Logistics and/or Railway experience an asset;
  • Equipment operation experience an asset (Forklift, Crane, Terminal Tractor/Tractor trailer);
  • Able to lift up to 75 lbs;
  • Experience loading trailers/railway cars an asset.

Ideal Candidate Profile:
  • Strong team player and able to maintain positive interactions with others;
  • Dedicated to getting the job done effectively while meeting established standards of quality, safety and client satisfaction;
  • Have reliable transportation;
  • Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions;
  • Able to work shift work, holidays, and weekends;
  • Able to pass pre-employment Drug screening & Criminal Background Check.

What We Offer:
  • The opportunity work and learn;
  • Development and growth opportunity for individuals looking to establish their careers;
  • A fun, exciting fast-paced environment within a growing company;
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits: Medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability and 401K program.

Stellar Distribution Services is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation. Only qualified candidates under consideration will be contacted.

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