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Customs Inspector Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Customs Entry Writer

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$39K - $52K/yr

Coordinate Customs examinations, agriculture inspections, and other government agency inspections , while communicating status updates to all stakeholders. * Maintain complete, accurate, and ...

Manage government agency holds and customs examinations, including CBP, FDA, CPSC, VACIS, CET, and Tailgate inspections * Serve as a trusted customs compliance expert, interpreting regulations and ...

Conducts construction inspections according to approved drawings and specifications. * Ensures ... Ability to obtain security clearance for air operations badging and Customs Border Protection (CBP ...

Conducts construction inspections according to approved drawings and specifications. * Ensures ... Ability to obtain security clearance for air operations badging and Customs Border Protection (CBP ...

Summary The Petroleum Inspector performs testing of bulk liquid or gaseous hydrocarbon or chemical ... Works in cooperation with client's representatives, US Customs, vessel personnel, government agents ...

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Customs Inspector information

See Florida salary details

$9

$20

$38

How much do customs inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for customs inspector in Florida is $20.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $23.51 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 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 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.

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.

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.

Is it hard to get into customs inspector?

Becoming a customs inspector typically requires passing written exams, background checks, and physical assessments. Candidates often need relevant education, such as a high school diploma or higher, and may need to complete training programs or obtain certifications. The hiring process can be competitive due to the specialized nature of the role and security clearance requirements.

What cities in Florida are hiring for Customs Inspector jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Customs Inspector job openings:

Infographic showing various Customs Inspector job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,524 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Customs Entry Writer

PLS Logistics Services

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

$39K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Prepare, review, and electronically transmit customs entries through the Automated Broker Interface (ABI) in accordance with CBP regulations.

  • Coordinate with customers, overseas agents, carriers, warehouses, terminals, truckers, and internal operations to facilitate timely customs clearance and cargo delivery.

  • Serve as the primary customer contact for assigned shipments by providing updates, requesting documentation, resolving clearance issues, and responding to inquiries.


Job description

Position Summary

The Entry Specialist is responsible for preparing, reviewing, and transmitting customs entries to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) while ensuring compliance with all applicable federal regulations.

This position manages import shipments from document receipt through customs release, serving as a primary point of contact for customers, carriers, government agencies, and internal departments to facilitate timely and compliant cargo clearance.


Essential Duties amp; Responsibilities
  • Prepare, review, and electronically transmit customs entries through the Automated Broker Interface (ABI) in accordance with CBP regulations.

  • Review commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, arrival notices, and supporting documentation to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance prior to submission.

  • Verify tariff classification, customs valuation, country of origin, admissibility requirements, and applicable duties, taxes, and fees.

  • Determine and process Partner Government Agency (PGA) requirements, including FDA, APHIS/USDA, EPA, Fish amp; Wildlife, and other applicable agency filings.

  • Monitor shipment arrivals, prioritize time-sensitive clearances, and track entry status through cargo release.

  • Coordinate with customers, overseas agents, carriers, warehouses, terminals, truckers, and internal operations to facilitate timely customs clearance and cargo delivery.

  • Serve as the primary customer contact for assigned shipments by:

    • Providing shipment updates

    • Requesting required documentation

    • Resolving clearance issues

    • Responding to customer inquiries professionally and promptly

  • Identify documentation discrepancies and compliance concerns and coordinate corrective actions with customers, vendors, or government agencies to prevent delays.

  • Coordinate Customs examinations, agriculture inspections, and other government agency inspections, while communicating status updates to all stakeholders.

  • Maintain complete, accurate, and organized electronic shipment files in accordance with company policies and CBP recordkeeping requirements.

  • Review customs duty calculations, brokerage charges, and billing information to ensure financial accuracy and proper invoicing.

  • Maintain compliance with CBP regulations, company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and internal quality standards.

  • Stay current on changes to customs regulations, tariff schedules, trade programs, and government agency requirements through ongoing training and professional development.

  • Recommend process improvements that enhance operational efficiency, service quality, compliance, and accuracy.

  • Assist with cross-training, departmental initiatives, special projects, and other duties as assigned.

Experience
  • 2–5 years of customs brokerage or import operations experience preferred.

  • Experience preparing customs entries using ABI.

  • Working knowledge of CBP regulations, customs entry procedures, and the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).

Knowledge, Skills amp; Abilities
  • Understanding of:

    • Customs valuation

    • Incoterms®

    • Country of origin rules

    • Import compliance requirements

  • Experience using ACE, ABI, and customs brokerage software.

  • Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Ability to prioritize multiple shipments and meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

  • High attention to detail with a strong commitment to accuracy.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Outlook, and Word.