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Customs Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Cavalier Logistics

Cavalier Logistics is seeking a full-time licensed Customs Broker to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of import operations. Duties for this position ...

Harry F. Long, Inc.

Customs Entry Specialist

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$43K - $58K/yr

Long, Inc. is a high-performing, independent Customs brokerage built on expertise, precision, and trusted client relationships. We foster a collaborative, fast-paced environment where people are ...

ACCO Brands

Customs Compliance Specialist

Lake Zurich, IL · On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

S. Customs regulations. In this position, you will work closely with internal teams and external brokers to facilitate efficient and compliant cross-border trade activities. The ideal candidate is ...

Savino Del Bene

Customs Entry Writer

Bensenville, IL · On-site

$42K - $57K/yr

We are looking for 2 individuals with a passion for the freight forwarding industry and customs brokerage. We are looking for a candidate to join our high paced team to assist in the process of ...

FedEx

Customs Brokerage Specialist

Elk Grove Village, IL

$25.37 - $35.51/hr

Obtain correct classification of goods for customs release from database, SOP's, tariff book, internet or customs. * Data entry and processing of various import related documentation for submission ...

DSV A/S

Customs Specialist - Entry Writer

Itasca, IL · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Customs Specialist - Entry Writer Time Type: Full Time Summary The Entry Writer is responsible for ensuring compliance with customs regulations and facilitating the smooth import and export of goods ...

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All JobsCustoms JobsCustoms Jobs in Illinois

Customs information

See Illinois salary details

$38.8K

$72.9K

$95.4K

How much do customs jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs in Illinois is $72,911.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $94,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a customs officer?

To thrive as a Customs Officer, you need a solid understanding of import/export regulations, risk assessment, and investigative procedures, often supported by relevant government training or a degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with customs management systems, X-ray scanning equipment, and document verification tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong ethical judgment, and effective communication skills help officers excel in high-pressure situations and interact with travelers and trade partners. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring border security, facilitating lawful trade, and protecting national interests.

What is the difference between Customs vs Customs Broker?

AspectCustomsCustoms Broker
CredentialsKnowledge of customs regulations, often requires relevant certifications or trainingLicensed professionals with specific customs broker licenses
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, import/export departmentsPrivate customs brokerage firms, freight forwarders
Industry UsageCustoms officers enforce regulations at bordersAssist importers/exporters with customs clearance
Search/Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in customs enforcementUnderstanding customs clearance process and licensing

While Customs officers enforce customs laws at borders, Customs Brokers facilitate the clearance process for importers and exporters by ensuring compliance with regulations. Both roles are essential in international trade but serve different functions within the customs ecosystem.

What is a customs officer?

Customs officers are government officials responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to the import and export of goods at borders and ports of entry. They inspect luggage, cargo, and vehicles to prevent illegal goods such as drugs, weapons, or undeclared items from entering or leaving a country. Customs officers also collect duties and taxes on imported goods and ensure compliance with trade regulations. Their work helps maintain national security, support lawful trade, and protect the country’s economy.

What are the career paths in customs?

Career paths in customs include roles such as Customs Officer, Customs Broker, Import/Export Specialist, and Customs Compliance Analyst. Advancement often involves gaining experience, certifications like the Certified Customs Specialist, and developing knowledge of trade laws, tariffs, and international regulations.

What are common challenges faced by customs officers and how can they be managed?

Professionals in customs often encounter challenges such as navigating complex and frequently changing international regulations, ensuring accurate and timely documentation, and managing high-pressure situations during inspections. Collaboration with other government agencies and effective communication with importers, exporters, and logistics providers are crucial for addressing these challenges. Staying updated through ongoing training and leveraging digital customs management systems can also help streamline workflows and reduce errors.

Is it hard to get into customs?

Getting into customs work can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, such as knowledge of import/export regulations, security procedures, or language skills. Some positions may require security clearances or certifications, and strong attention to detail is important for success in the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Customs jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Customs jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Customs jobs in Illinois? For Customs jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Customs jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Customs jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Customs jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Customs job openings:
Customs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Customs job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,911 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Customs Entry Writer - CN Customs Brokerage

International Bulk Services

Homewood, IL • On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

CN Customs Brokerage - USA
Job Description:
Seeking highly motivated, detail oriented, energetic individual for a full-time customs entry writer position in a fast-paced environment. This individual will work in a collaborative dynamic workplace with a culture focused on self-empowerment, initiative, and continued learning all to provide superior Customs services to our clients.
Come join a company that recognizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion to create a successful and collaborative work environment. As an equal-opportunity employer, we value and embrace all the characteristics that make unique and seek to provide everyone with an equal chance to succeed, because equity and inclusion matter at CN Customs Brokerage Services (USA) Inc.
The customs entry writer position will entail:
  • Manage the receipt, review, and input/transmission of documentation to U.S. Customs for entry release.
  • Perform daily follow up on all open issues with clients, carriers, forwarders, U.S. Customs, or partner government agencies (PGA) to resolve outstanding issues.
  • Communicating with clients, carriers, and other parties to gather needed data for entry processing.
  • Aide in the classification of merchandise.
  • Transmitting Automated Export System (AES) data to U.S. Customs.
  • Transmitting in-bond entries to U.S. Customs.
  • Transmitting Importer Security Filing (ISF) to U.S. Customs.
  • Adherence to client standard operating procedures (SOPs) to provide individualized client service.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills:
  • Customer service
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Outlook
  • Organizational skills
  • Time management and prioritization
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Proficient written and oral communication skills in English

Education:
  • Associate's degree from an accredited two-year college preferred.
  • High school diploma or GED required.

Work Experience:
  • Two years minimum work experience in customs entry processing.
  • Prior customer service experience preferred.

Benefits:
  • Paid holiday and vacation
  • Medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability
  • 401k matching 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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