CBP Import Specialist

[RCS]

Hello All,

I saw a posting for CBP Import Specialist online today. I read over the announcement and also checked out the CBP website for the overview of the job. Can anyone who is an Import Specialist or works with them share their experiences? It sounds like a good job and possibly a good stepping stone. Thoughts?

[rix031]

stepping stone for what? its not a law enforcement position.

[RCS]

I am fully aware that this is not a law enforcement position, thank you for the insight. I was hoping to find out if this would be a stepping stone or helpful in the future for attaining an 1895 position? Thanks again, I think....

[GB0610]

It will help you get a great insight into trade fraud. They do a specialized work beyond what the inspector/officer does.

Will it lead you to a 1895 job. No, not necessarily. It is entry level, just like the officer job is. It will get you into the G, but that's about it. You rarely if ever see an IM move to an Officer job, usually the oppisite. And those cases, its usually the people who no longer want to carry a gun, or didn't realize they would be required to in the first place........yep, that happens.

It is a very slow paced desk job for the most part. If you want that. Go for it.

[SoCalFed]

Some former Import Specialists have even become Port Directors even though they have no LE experience. As with many positions within CBP, the sky can be the limit....

[1895DCSkate]

Import Specialist in some ports work side by side with CBP Officer. At my old port they would give us a list of shipment to inspect for numerous trade violations and possible fraud. That position usually go up to a GS-12 position and majority if not all are issued badges but no gun. It use to be that import specialist could easily lateral over to an inspector position. Or head to managment. I know numerous inspectors that switch to become import specialist because of the hours and more technical aspects of the job. ICE also is another venue that Import Specialist would jup to due to expertise ICE looks for in trade and strategic investgation. We had a few that were part of a Customs task force for targeting anti-dumping and trade fraud. It's a good deal and yes it can be a stepping stone into other CBP positions. CBP Officer, ICE whatever. At least get your foot in the door.