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Customs Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Cavalier Logistics

$42K - $56K/yr

The Customs Entry Writer is responsible for processing documentation required by US Customs and Border Protection for entry of goods into the US on behalf of importers. Industry experience is ...

Janel Group

Customs Entry Specialist (ORD)

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/hr

Customs Entry Writer Janel Group is seeking a Customs Entry Writer to join our team! If you're a high-energy, focused freight forwarding professional who wants to continue building your customs ...

Wabtec

Customs Compliance Region Leader - US/CA

Chicago, IL · On-site

$104K - $149K/yr

The US/CA Customs Compliance Region Leader position is responsible for managing and maintaining Wabtec Corporation's customs compliance strategy and enterprise standard for Wabtec entities acting as ...

Hellmann

Customs Brokerage Entry Agent

Norridge, IL · On-site

The Customs Brokerage Entry Agent is responsible for working in our Customs Brokerage Department to process import shipments and customs brokerage for our customers. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 22, 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 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 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 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.

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.

Is it hard to get a job with customs?

Getting a customs job can be competitive and often requires relevant experience, security clearances, and sometimes specialized training or certifications. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of regulations, and language skills can improve chances of employment in this field.

What is the job of customs?

A customs officer is responsible for inspecting and regulating goods and travelers entering or leaving a country to enforce import and export laws, collect duties, and prevent illegal items from crossing borders. They often work at border crossings, airports, or seaports and require knowledge of customs regulations and security procedures.

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 August 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 (Full-Time)

Cavalier Logistics

On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Cavalier Logistics is seeking a full-time Customs Entry Writer to join our import team. The Customs Entry Writer is responsible for processing documentation required by US Customs and Border Protection for entry of goods into the US on behalf of importers. Industry experience is required, and compensation will depend upon that experience.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to :
  • Provide impeccable customer service
  • Perform audit review on all assigned brokerage files and payments to customs
  • Maintain and keep current all customs compliance documentation
  • Process documents through the Company's ABI system, obtaining Customs release and other government agency releases as appropriate. Arrange both delivery and the invoicing of the import account for services rendered
  • Review and monitor all Customs rejections, requests for information for clients and any other government agency, and other correspondence.
  • Mandatory daily correspondence with overseas and domestic agents, as well as airlines, steamship lines, and co-loaders
  • Work closely with other departments to deliver high level of service to customers.
  • Perform other duties as assigned
  • Report all issues to customers and management affecting clearance and delivery in a timely manner in writing or verbally
  • Reporting freight discrepancies to management
  • Ensure that all files contain all necessary document copies
  • Must be able to pass a background check

Required Skills:
  • Basic knowledge of INCO terms, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, Customs regulations and partner government agency requirements
  • Solid knowledge of domestic and international geography including countries, major cities and ocean ports along with basic knowledge of U.S. Regulatory Laws
  • Ability to work with demanding deadlines
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
  • Must be detail oriented, thorough and accurate. Must have proven analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to establish priorities and accomplish multiple tasks, must be organized
  • Strong PC skills including fast, accurate typing skills
  • Work effectively via phone, fax, e-mail. Good planning and organization skills; ability to multitask and be a self-starter
  • Must be able to pass a background check
  • Must be dependable, timely, and have a sense of urgency.

Education:
  • Minimum high school diploma or GED

Previous Experience:
  • 2-years of customs entry writing experience required

Benefits & Compensation:
  • Competitive Compensation - Depends on Experience
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Employee Assistance Program

If you enjoy a fast paced environment, are a self-starter, have great organizational skills and are a team player - apply for this great position today. No phone calls please.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.

Apply