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Customs Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Percy Towers

Customs Broker

Washington, DC

$140K - $160K/yr

Customs Specialist / International Trade Compliance Professional (Title and compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications) Location: Washington, DC (with international travel) Schedule ...

DSV A/S

Customs Specialist

Herndon, VA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Customs Specialist, Entry Writer Time Type: Full Time Customs Specialist, Entry Writer The Customs Specialist is responsible for managing customs-related processes and ensuring compliance with ...

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Customs information

See Washington salary details

$45.3K

$85.2K

$111.6K

How much do customs jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs in Washington is $85,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $110,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Customs Officer, and why are they important?

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.

How to get a job working for customs?

To work in customs, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and may be required to pass background checks and drug tests. Relevant skills include attention to detail, communication, and knowledge of customs regulations; some positions may require specialized certifications or training. Applying through government agency websites or customs departments and demonstrating language skills can improve chances of employment.

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 are customs officers and what do they do?

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 does a customs job involve?

A customs job involves inspecting and processing shipments to ensure compliance with import and export regulations. Customs officers verify documentation, assess duties, and prevent illegal goods from entering or leaving a country. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of customs laws, and sometimes security clearance are important for this role.

How much do US customs pay?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers typically earn an annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and rank. Entry-level officers usually start at the GS-5 to GS-7 pay grade, with opportunities for advancement and overtime pay. Certifications and training in inspection procedures are often required for the role.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in customs, 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 hired by CBP?

Getting hired by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can be competitive, as it involves a rigorous application process including background checks, physical fitness tests, and interviews. Candidates often need relevant experience, security clearances, and sometimes specialized skills such as language proficiency or law enforcement training.
What are the most commonly searched types of Customs jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Customs jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Customs jobs in Washington? For Customs jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Customs jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Customs jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Customs jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Customs job openings:
Customs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Customs job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,218 per year, or $41 per hour.

Customs Broker

Percy Towers

Washington, DC

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Customs Specialist / International Trade Compliance Professional

(Title and compensation commensurate with experience and qualifications)

Location: Washington, DC (with international travel)

Schedule: 1,800 - 2,000 hours per year

Salary Band:

  • $140,000 - $160,000 (non-licensed)
  • $160,00-$190,000 (licensed broker)
  • $200,000+ (licensed attorneys)


This law firm is home to highly motivated professionals distinguished by intellectual rigor, technical excellence, and a shared commitment to superior client service. The Customs Specialist plays a critical role in advising clients on complex import and trade compliance matters while contributing to a collaborative, high-performance environment focused on continuous improvement.


Highly preferred to have a Licensed U.S. Customs Broker or licensed practitioners of Law.


Key Responsibilities

The Customs Specialist will provide substantive analysis and practical guidance across a broad range of customs and trade matters, including:

  • Tariff classification, customs valuation, country-of-origin determinations, and entry requirements
  • Identification of duty drawback opportunities and duty/fee savings strategies
  • Advising on CBP automated systems, including ACE, post-entry audits, and focused assessment audits
  • Supporting the design and implementation of compliance solutions, with an emphasis on automation and process optimization
  • Assisting with due diligence reviews, privilege reviews, and audits of client records and files
  • Conducting legal and factual research related to customs laws, regulations, markets, and industry standards
  • Coordinating filings and communications with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other government agencies
  • Collaborating with attorneys, specialists, and clients to deliver accurate, timely, and strategic outcomes


Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university

Customs Broker License strongly preferred. Trade Compliance Specialists or Import Specialists will be considered.


Substantial experience in customs and international trade compliance, including roles such as:

  • Licensed Customs Broke
  • U.S. Customs Auditor
  • Hands-on experience with CBP’s ACE Portal
  • Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly and precisely
  • Strong research capabilities, including regulatory and factual analysis
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Access
  • Willingness to travel as required, internationally.


This role rewards precision, judgment, and intellectual stamina. It suits someone who enjoys living at the intersection of law, logistics, and systems—where a single classification decision can ripple across global supply chains.