1

Customs Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Customs Brokers on staff, supported by an experienced compliance team that includes former CBP inspectors. In terms of customs entry volume, we rank 67th out of more than 7,000 customs brokerage ...

Customs Brokers on staff, supported by an experienced compliance team that includes former CBP inspectors. In terms of customs entry volume, we rank 67th out of more than 7,000 customs brokerage ...

Customs Brokers on staff, supported by an experienced compliance team that includes former CBP inspectors. In terms of customs entry volume, we rank 67th out of more than 7,000 customs brokerage ...

Customs Brokers on staff, supported by an experienced compliance team that includes former CBP inspectors. In terms of customs entry volume, we rank 67th out of more than 7,000 customs brokerage ...

Customs Brokers on staff, supported by an experienced compliance team that includes former CBP inspectors. In terms of customs entry volume, we rank 67th out of more than 7,000 customs brokerage ...

Customs Brokers on staff, supported by an experienced compliance team that includes former CBP inspectors. In terms of customs entry volume, we rank 67th out of more than 7,000 customs brokerage ...

Customs Brokers on staff, supported by an experienced compliance team that includes former CBP inspectors. In terms of customs entry volume, we rank 67th out of more than 7,000 customs brokerage ...

VP of Trade Compliance

Sunnyvale, CA

$147K - $197K/yr

Lead government audits, inquiries, and inspections related to customs and export controls. * Oversee voluntary disclosures and corrective actions in coordination with Legal, Outside Counsel, and ...

Safety Clerk

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

... Customs identifications • Ensure all State inspections, registrations and Insurance ID's for trucks are current • Responsible for ensuring all drivers adhere to A-1 Inspection procedures • ...

$25 - $32/hr

... Customs identifications • Ensure all State inspections, registrations and Insurance ID's for trucks are current • Responsible for ensuring all drivers adhere to A-1 Inspection procedures • ...

Showing results 41-60

Customs Inspector information

See California salary details

$12

$26

$51

How much do customs inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for customs inspector in California is $27.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a customs inspector?

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 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 relevant work experience, physical fitness, and passing written exams or assessments. Certification or knowledge of customs laws and procedures can also be beneficial.

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 salary of customs inspector?

The salary of a customs inspector typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and government agency. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced inspectors or those in higher-ranking roles can earn more. Benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay.

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.

What cities in California are hiring for Customs Inspector jobs?

Cities in California with the most Customs Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Customs Inspector job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,159 per year, or $27 per hour.

Account Executive

ClearFreight

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description:

ClearFreight is looking for a dynamic sales professional who will help us continue to build our freight forwarding and customs brokerage business. At ClearFreight, you'll do more than sell logistics services—you'll build lasting partnerships helping customers navigate the choppy waters of international trade. As an Account Executive, you'll be responsible for developing new business, growing existing accounts, and delivering customized freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and supply chain solutions. Why ClearFreight?

  • A great opportunity to join a growing sales organization with strong operational, customs brokerage, compliance, and technology support.
  • Protected book of business: your business will never become a house account. What you build remains yours throughout your career with us.
  • You are not restricted by territory, commodity, mode of transportation, trade lanes or anything else! Pursue international logistics business wherever you find it.
  • ClearView, our proprietary cargo visibility platform, provides customers with real-time shipment tracking, documentation, and analytics across ocean and air carriers—giving our sales team an excellent tool for winning and retaining business.
  • More than 25 licensed U.S. Customs Brokers on staff, supported by an experienced compliance team that includes former CBP inspectors. In terms of customs entry volume, we rank 67th out of more than 7,000 customs brokerage businesses in the US.
  • CTPAT-certified and validated, representing a high level of recognition under CBP’s trusted-trader program. Trusted by many major global brands across different industries.
  • An international footprint, with our own offices in Europe, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan, Taiwan, Canada, Chile, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Mexico, and Panama.

What You'll DoSales & Customer Solutions

  • Introduce customers to ClearFreight's technology and visibility tools to enhance their supply chain experience.
  • Prepare proposals, quotations, and presentations while negotiating competitive, profitable pricing.
  • Work cross-functionally to resolve customer challenges and deliver timely, effective solutions.

Business Development

  • Develop and grow your portfolio of clients through strategic prospecting, networking, referrals, and relationship building.
  • Identify, pursue, and close new business opportunities while expanding existing customer relationships.
  • Partner with the Marketing team to turn qualified leads into long-term customers.

Account Management

  • Act as your customers' advocate by working closely with Operations, IT, Finance, and Customer Service to ensure an exceptional customer experience.
  • Monitor accounts receivable and partner with customers to maintain healthy account performance.
Requirements:

What You'll Bring

  • Location: Candidates must reside near one of ClearFreight's US office locations, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, Miami, or New York
  • Experience: You have 4-5 years of sales experience in freight forwarding, logistics, and/or customs brokerage services.
  • Creative: You can identify customer challenges and develop solutions they may not have realized were possible.
  • Engagement: You communicate effectively and bring strong presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Industrious: You're self-motivated, results-driven, and you wake up every day ready to achieve and exceed sales goals.

What you need

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, experience with CRM systems and CargoWise is a plus.
  • A high school diploma or GED; a bachelor's degree is preferred.
  • Fluency in additional languages is a plus.