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Customs Inspector Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), you will be responsible for leading user activity ... Inspector General (OIG) and Other Government Agencies in the investigation of CBP personnel ...

Service Logistics Manager

Sterling, VA · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

... optical inspection solutions, Rapiscan has over 100,000 scanning systems installed around the world to assist customs agencies, border security, aviation authorities, law enforcement, military ...

Forklift Operator I

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Inspect machinery to determine the need for repairs and guarantee safety by performing regular ... Knowledge of regulatory affairs, customs or other business areas of logistics. Knowledge of ...

Showing results 41-60

Customs Inspector information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$27

$51

How much do customs inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for customs inspector in Virginia is $27.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $31.20 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 relevant work experience, physical fitness, and passing written exams or assessments. Certification or knowledge of customs laws and procedures can also be beneficial.

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.
Infographic showing various Customs Inspector job openings in Virginia 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 $56,417 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Air Force, Foreign Clearance Program (FCP) SME

Noblis

Arlington, VA • On-site

$133K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Responsibilities
Noblis is seeking FCP SME to serve as the Government's primary POC and to provide overall guidance for all FCP requirements.
This will be an onsite position at the Pentagon. This position is part of a proposal effort and is contingent upon contract award.
Responsibilities:
  • You will be providing support to ensure compliance with USG policies on aviation related fees; aircraft and personnel clearance requirements to overseas locations; passport; visa requirements for DoD personnel and DoD-sponsored personnel; and, various international sovereignty issues.
  • Providing, at a minimum, the following types of support to the AF/A10P FCP: historical background and current and future foreign clearance issues to include entry and over flight requirements to foreign countries.
  • Providing written documentation on FCP policy and procedures, prepare briefings, and shall be prepared to discuss these issues in interagency forums.
  • Discussing USG FCP policy with AF, DoD, U.S. Embassies, and non-government organizations.
  • Responding to Government questions, problems, concerns, and comments on a wide range of FCP issues.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree & 8 years of relevant experience. Will also consider an Associates & 11 years of experience or an High School diploma 14 years of experience in lieu of a Bachelor's degree.
  • Must a US Citizen
  • Active Top Secret Clearance, with the ability to obtain TS/SCI.
  • Demonstrated experience evaluating inputs and interpreting information contained in the DoD FCG to insure the FCG complies with USG policy, customs, and practices on a variety of FCP issues.
  • Demonstrated experience and ability with determining entry requirements into foreign counties by DoD personnel and DoD-sponsored personnel.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of international sovereignty issues (aircraft boarding, customs and inspections, arctic sovereignty, etc.).
  • Demonstrated knowledge of AF foreign military and foreign operating rights.
  • Ability to address policy issues related to the APACS.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of international civil aviation issues and their relationship to military operations.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of AF freedom of navigation issues and the UN Convention on Law of the Sea.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of USAF special weapons over flight issues.
  • Demonstrated experience in planning, directing, and managing complex and extended projects and operations.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of Air Staff, JS, and OSD organization and documentation processes.

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience within the HAF/A10 community.

Overview
Overview
Noblis and our wholly owned subsidiaries, Noblis ESI and Noblis MSD, take on some of the nation's toughest challenges, delivering advanced solutions to our customers' most critical missions. We bring together leading scientific, engineering, and management expertise in a culture grounded in objectivity and collaboration, ensuring our work creates lasting impact across federal missions.
We work with a broad range of government agencies in the defense, intelligence, and federal civilian sectors. Learn more and find opportunities at careers.noblis.org
Why Work at Noblis
At Noblis, we share a passion for excellence and innovation, and we create an environment where people can do meaningful work while maintaining the balance that keeps them energized and fulfilled. We seek out individuals with a natural curiosity and desire to collaborate and learn. We believe our people are our greatest strength, and we consistently seek exceptionally skilled, mission-driven professionals who care deeply about doing work that enriches lives and makes our nation safer.
Noblis has earned numerous workplace awards for our culture, our commitment to employee well-being, and our dedication to meaningful, impactful work. We also maintain a drug-free workplace.
Remote/hybrid status is subject to change based on Noblis and/or government requirements.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, age, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability, pregnancy/childbirth and related medical conditions, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact us.
EEO is the Law | E-Verify | Right to Work
Total Rewards
At Noblis we recognize and reward your contributions, provide you with growth opportunities, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, and work-life programs. Our award programs acknowledge employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our service standards. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in our benefit programs. Other offerings may be provided for employees not within this category. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Benefits page on our Careers site.
Compensation at Noblis is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the combination of education, certifications, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, internal and external equity, location, clearance level, as well as contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements and applicable employment laws. The projected compensation range for this position is based on full time status. For part time or on-call staff, compensation is proportionately adjusted based on hours worked. While monetary compensation is important, it's just one component of Noblis' total compensation package.
Posted Salary Range
USD $132,900.00 - USD $207,750.00 /Yr.