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Customs Inspector Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Customs Inspector information

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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 Texas is $25.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $29.33 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.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Customs Inspector jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Customs Inspector job openings:
Infographic showing various Customs Inspector job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,015 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
Customs and Border Protection Officer

Customs and Border Protection Officer

US Customs and Border Protection

Mansfield, TX • On-site

$51K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


U.S. Customs and Border Protection rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

125th of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO)

NEW RECRUITMENT INCENTIVES!

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers those interested in a career in law enforcement an exceptional opportunity to work with an elite team of highly trained professionals whose camaraderie, pride, and purpose are hallmarks of their daily mission of protecting America. You will be part of the Department of Homeland Security workforce, protecting American interests and securing our nation.

If you are looking for a rewarding career with great pay, benefits, and job stability, now is the time to make your move.

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE INCENTIVES – SEE SALARY SECTION BELOW

As a Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO), you will be part of our 60,000+ workforce that strives to protect the American people by safeguarding our borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation’s economic prosperity. Being a CBPO makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession.

Typical assignments include:

  • Enforcing customs, immigration, and agriculture laws and regulations.
  • Facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel.
  • Conducting inspections of individuals and conveyances.
  • Determining the admissibility of individuals for entry into the United States.
  • Preventing the illegal entry of individuals and prohibited goods and the smuggling of illegal drugs and other contraband.

Duty Locations – Incentives available for some locations

You will be asked to provide your preference for one of the following mission-critical locations: Anchorage, AK; Douglas, Lukeville, Nogales and San Luis, AZ; Calexico, Otay Mesa, San Francisco, San Ysidro, and Tecate, CA; Washington, D.C.; Key West and Miami, FL; Honolulu, HI; Chicago, IL; Calais, Eastport, Houlton, Jackman, Madawaska, Van Buren, and Vanceboro, ME; Detroit, Port Huron, and Sault Ste Marie, MI; Grand Portage and International Falls, MN; Raymond, Roosville, Sweetgrass, and Wild Horse, MT; Columbus and Santa Teresa, NM; Alexandria Bay, Champlain, Massena, and Trout River, NY; Dunseith, Pembina, and Portal, ND; Brownsville, Dallas, Del Rio, El Paso, Hidalgo, Laredo, Presidio, and Progreso, TX; Beecher Falls, Derby Line, Highgate Springs, Norton, and Richford, VT; Blaine, Oroville, and Sumas, WA.

The preference locations listed above are expected to have vacancies available in the future, however, if the duty locations do not have vacancies at the time of your final offer, you may be offered a duty location in another geographic location within the United States. Locations offered are based on operational and mission requirements and critical agency hiring needs for entry-level CBPOs as determined by the CBP Office of Field Operations (OFO).

Salary – and Duty Location Recruitment Incentives – and Benefits

**Recruitment Incentive** Newly appointed Customs and Border Protection Officers (as defined in 5 CFR 575.102) will be offered up to a $15,000 incentive per year, for a three-year service contract, in the following locations:
Arizona: Douglas, Lukeville, Nogales, San Luis
California: Calexico
Hawaii: Honolulu
Maine: Calais, Eastport, Houlton, Jackman, Madawaska, Van Buren, Vanceboro
Michigan: Detroit, Port Huron, Sault Sainte Marie
Minnesota: Grand Portage, International Falls
Montana: Raymond, Sweetgrass
New York: Alexandria Bay, Champlain, Massena, Trout River
North Dakota: Dunseith, Portal
Vermont: Beecher Falls, Derby Line, Highgate Springs, Norton, Richford
Washington: Blaine, Oroville
**Recruitment Incentive** Newly appointed Customs and Border Protection Officers (as defined in 5 CFR 575.102) will be offered up to a $15,000 incentive per year, for a four-year service contract, in the following locations:
California: Otay Mesa, San Francisco, San Ysidro, Tecate
Florida: Key West
North Dakota: Pembina

Annual Base Salary for newly appointed CBPOs varies as follows:

  • GS-5 and GS-7 $40,332 - $109,952 per year

Locality pay varies by duty location.

Note: A fully trained CBPO is eligible for up to $45,000 in overtime pay in addition to the starting salary.

Grade level eligibility and salaries vary depending upon background, including experience and education, and duty location of the opportunity. This is a career ladder position with a grade level progression of GS-5, GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, and GS-12. You will be eligible for a promotion to the next higher grade level (without re-applying) once you successfully complete 52 weeks in each grade level. Promotions are at the discretion of the agency.

Officers are eligible to select from an array of federal employment benefits that include health, dental and other insurance plans, a generous annual and sick leave program, and participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, a retirement plan akin to a traditional and ROTH 401(k) offering.

Qualifications:

You qualify for the GS-5 grade level if you possess one of the following:

Experience: A minimum of three (3) years full-time general work experience that demonstrates the ability to meet and deal with people and the ability to learn and be able to apply a body of facts; OR

Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree or successful completion of a full four (4)-year course of study in any field leading to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university; OR

Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of successfully completed college education AND general work experience. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial college transcripts submitted with your application.

You qualify for the GS-7 grade level if you possess one of the following:

Experience: A minimum of one (1) year of specialized full-time work experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level that includes:

  • Performing physical inspections of people, documents or goods for criminal activity, fraud, and/or illegal operations.
  • Utilizing observational techniques, evaluating facts, and reviewing documentation while applying Federal, State, or local laws and regulations.
  • Making determinations in compliance with laws and regulations that may lead to arrests, seizure of property, fines, and/or penalties based on findings.

OR for the GS-7 grade level:

Education Substitution: A bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average (3.0 or higher), or (3) honor society membership; OR one (1) full year of graduate-level education. This education must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work; OR

Combination of Experience and Education: A combination of specialized work experience equivalent to the next lower grade level AND graduate level education from an accredited college or university. This will be calculated using your resume and official or unofficial transcripts submitted with your application.

If you have previous or current law enforcement or military law enforcement experience, you may qualify at the GS-9 grade level. See the GS-9 Job Opportunity Announcement (JOAs) at USAJOBS, the federal government’s official employment site to determine if you qualify.

Other Requirements:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this position.

Residency: You must have had primary U.S. residency (includes protectorates as declared under international law) for at least three (3) of the last five (5) years.

Age Restriction: In accordance with Public Law 100-238, this position is covered under law enforcement retirement provisions. Candidates must be referred for selection to the Customs and Border Protection Officer position before reaching their 40th birthday in accordance with Department of Homeland Security Directive 251-03. The age restriction may not apply if you are currently serving or have previously served in a federal civilian law enforcement (non-military) position covered by Title 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) or Title 5 U.S.C. 8412(d).

Veterans’ Preference: You may also be eligible for an excepted service Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA). The age restriction does not apply if you are Veterans' Preference eligible.

Formal Training: You will be required to complete a paid pre-academy orientation for approximately two (2) weeks at your home port. You will then attend a 101-day training program – CBP Field Operations Academy – conducted at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) located in Glynco, GA. This training consists of basic law enforcement skills, immigration laws, firearms training, examination of cargo/bags/merchandise, physical fitness, etc. Candidates assigned to the southern border, Miami, or Puerto Rico duty locations must attend and pass an online Spanish training program, which will be completed at their home port. Successful completion of the Academy is required for this position.

How to Apply:

Click the Apply button on this site. You will be linked to the CBP Talent Network page. For Position of Interest, select Customs and Border Protection Officer.

You’ll then receive a link(s) to the CBPO JOA(s) on USAJOBS to complete your application. Be certain to review ALL details of the job opportunity announcement and follow all instructions in the application process, including items (resume, transcripts, etc.) to submit. You will be evaluated based on your resume, supporting documents, and the CBPO Entrance Exam.

As a subscriber to the CBP Talent Network, you’ll receive monthly emails with information about webinars, career expos, and future opportunities with OFO and CBP.

Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO)

NEW RECRUITMENT INCENTIVES!

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers those interested in a career in law enforcement an exceptional opportunity to work with an elite team of highly trained professionals whose camaraderie, pride, and purpose are hallmarks of their daily mission of protecting America. You will be part of the Department of Homeland Security workforce, protecting American interests and securing our nation.

If you are looking for a rewarding career with great pay, benefits, and job stability, now is the time to make your move.

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE INCENTIVES – SEE SALARY SECTION BELOW

As a Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO), you will be part of our 60,000+ workforce that strives to protect the American people by safeguarding our borders, deterring illicit activity, and enhancing the nation’s economic prosperity. Being a CBPO makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) profession.

Typical assignments include:

  • Enforcing customs, immigration, and agriculture laws and regulations.
  • Facilitating the flow of legitimate trade and travel.
  • Conducting inspections of individuals and conveyances.
  • Determining the admissibility of individuals for entry into the United States.
  • Preventing the illegal entry of individuals and prohibited goods and the smuggling of illegal drugs and other contraband.

Duty Locations – Incentives available for some locations

You will be asked to provide your preference for one of the following mission-critical locations: Anchorage, AK; Douglas, Lukeville, Nogales and San Luis, AZ; Calexico, Otay Mesa, San Francisco, San Ysidro, and Tecate, CA; Washington, D.C.; Key West and Miami, FL; Honolulu, HI; Chicago, IL; Calais, Eastport, Houlton, Jackman, Madawaska, Van Buren, and Vanceboro, ME; Detroit, Port Huron, and Sault Ste Marie, MI; Grand Portage and International Falls, MN; Raymond, Roosville, Sweetgrass, and Wild Horse, MT; Columbus and Santa Teresa, NM; Alexandria Bay, Champlain, Massena, and Trout River, NY; Dunseith, Pembina, and Portal, ND; Brownsville, Dallas, Del Rio, El Paso, Hidalgo, Laredo, Presidio, and Progreso, TX; Beecher Falls, Derby Line, Highgate Springs, Norton, and Richford, VT; Blaine, Oroville, and Sumas, WA.

The preference locations listed above are expected to have vacancies available in the future, however, if the duty locations do not have vacancies at the time of your final offer, you may be offered a duty location in another geographic location within the United States. Locations offered are based on operational and mission requirements and critical agency hiring needs for entry-level CBPOs as determined by the CBP Office of Field Operations (OFO).

Salary – and Duty Location Recruitment Incentives – and Benefits

**Recruitment Incentive** Newly appointed Customs and Border Protection Officers (as defined in 5 CFR 575.102) will be offered up to a $15,000 incentive per year, for a three-year service contract, in the following locations:
Arizona: Douglas, Lukeville, Nogales, San Luis
California: Calexico
Hawaii: Honolulu
Maine: Calais, Eastport, Houlton, Jackman, Madawaska, Van Buren, Vanceboro
Michigan: Detroit, Port Huron, Sault Sainte Marie
Minnesota: Grand Portage, International Falls
Montana: Raymond, Sweetgrass
New York: Alexandria Bay, Champlain, Massena, Trout River
North Dakota: Dunseith, Portal
Vermont: Beecher Falls, Derby Line, Highgate Springs, Norton, Richford
Washington: Blaine, Oroville
**Recruitment Incentive** Newly appointed Customs and Border Protection Officers (as defined in 5 CFR 575.102) will be offered up to a $15,000 incentive per year, for a four-year service contract, in the following locations:
California: Otay Mesa, San Francisco, San Ysidro, Tecate
Florida: Key West
North Dakota: Pembina

Annual Base Salary for newly appointed CBPOs varies as follows:

  • GS-5 and GS-7 $40,332 - $109,952 per year

Locality pay varies by duty location.

Note: A fully trained CBPO is eligible for up to $45,000 in overtime pay in addition to the starting salary.

Grade level eligibilit...


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About U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

U.S. Customs and Border Protection serves and protects America with a workforce of more than 60,000 law enforcement and support professionals. We're united by our mission to guard our borders from threats and illicit activities while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003