Customs Inspector
PrintWork Tasks
CUSTOMS INSPECTORS enforce laws, regulations, policies, and procedures concerning imports and exports. They examine visas and passports and interview persons to determine eligibility for admission, residence, and travel in the United States. They inspect persons, common carriers, goods, and merchandise arriving in or departing from the United States. They determine duty and taxes to be paid. Customs inspectors seize illegal items or contraband, and arrest or arrange for deportation of persons in violation of customs or immigration laws.
Salary, Size & Growth
- $80,500 average per year ($38.75 per hour)
- A medium occupation (134,900 workers in 2010)
- Expected to grow moderately (1.7% per year)
Entry Requirements
CUSTOMS INSPECTORS must have at least three years of progressively responsible experience in administrative, law enforcement, or other work that demonstrates the ability to deal with people and to learn and interpret facts. A bachelor's degree may be substituted for experience. Inspectors are trained in the applicable laws or inspection procedures through classroom and on-the-job training. Customs inspectors must be qualified in the use of firearms. They must also be United States citizens. No special licensing or certification is required for customs inspectors.