Officers begin shifts by reviewing intelligence briefings and checking equipment at ports of entry, airports, or border crossings. They examine passports, visas, and immigration documents while interviewing travelers to assess eligibility for entry into the United States. Throughout the day, they inspect cargo shipments, personal baggage, and vehicles using technology tools like x-ray machines and computer databases to identify contraband or prohibited items. They calculate duties and taxes on imported goods, complete detailed inspection reports, and coordinate with other agencies when violations are discovered. Officers frequently detain individuals for further questioning and may participate in investigations that lead to criminal prosecutions.
Successful officers possess exceptional attention to detail and strong analytical thinking skills to identify discrepancies in documentation and detect deceptive behavior during interviews. They demonstrate high integrity and dependability, as the role requires making critical decisions that affect national security and individual lives. These professionals excel at multitasking under pressure, switching between routine inspections and high-stakes enforcement actions while maintaining professional composure. Strong communication skills enable them to explain complex regulations to diverse audiences and work effectively with law enforcement partners across multiple agencies.
The role maintains strong automation resistance due to the complex human judgment required for interviewing travelers, detecting deceptive behavior, and making nuanced decisions about immigration eligibility. While technology assists with document scanning and database queries, the core activities of evaluating compliance with standards, identifying suspicious objects and behaviors, and making critical decisions require human expertise. Advanced screening technologies may streamline routine inspections but will likely augment rather than replace officer capabilities for complex enforcement situations.
Postings appear within hours of going live on the source ATS. No aggregator lag. Direct from source.
| TERM | COUNT | FREQ | BAR | SOURCE ATTRIBUTION |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| border | 43 | 0.0120 | wikipedia 88% inference 12% | |
| tendency | 42 | 0.0117 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| australian | 40 | 0.0111 | wikipedia 100% | |
| others | 39 | 0.0109 | onet dimensi 97% dwas 3% | |
| customs | 38 | 0.0106 | wikipedia 76% inference 13% | |
| service | 32 | 0.0089 | wikipedia 88% onet dimensi 6% | |
| equipment | 24 | 0.0067 | onet dimensi 96% inference 4% | |
| protection | 22 | 0.0061 | wikipedia 82% inference 14% | |
| immigration | 18 | 0.0050 | wikipedia 56% onet tasks 22% | |
| control | 18 | 0.0050 | onet dimensi 67% wikipedia 28% | |
| officers | 18 | 0.0050 | wikipedia 50% inference 50% | |
| australia | 17 | 0.0047 | wikipedia 94% inference 6% | |
| enforcement | 16 | 0.0045 | wikipedia 50% inference 38% | |
| principles | 16 | 0.0045 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| law | 15 | 0.0042 | wikipedia 47% inference 33% | |
| agency | 15 | 0.0042 | wikipedia 87% onet dimensi 7% | |
| goods | 14 | 0.0039 | wikipedia 57% onet dimensi 29% | |
| activities | 14 | 0.0039 | onet dimensi 64% wikipedia 14% | |
| objects | 14 | 0.0039 | onet dimensi 86% dwas 7% | |
| security | 13 | 0.0036 | wikipedia 38% inference 38% | |
| includes | 12 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| techniques | 12 | 0.0033 | onet dimensi 83% wikipedia 17% | |
| agencies | 11 | 0.0031 | inference 45% wikipedia 36% | |
| government | 11 | 0.0031 | wikipedia 64% onet dimensi 27% | |
| material | 11 | 0.0031 | wikipedia 73% onet dimensi 27% | |
| ideas | 11 | 0.0031 | onet dimensi 100% | |
| force | 11 | 0.0031 | wikipedia 73% onet dimensi 27% | |
| entry | 11 | 0.0031 | wikipedia 64% inference 36% | |
| monitoring | 10 | 0.0028 | onet dimensi 80% wikipedia 20% | |
| procedures | 10 | 0.0028 | onet dimensi 80% wikipedia 10% |
Provenance Window — Full Source Record · 33-3051.04 · Customs and Border Protection Officers 7 source blocks · click to expand
[Core] [82% incumbents] Examine immigration applications, visas, and passports and interview persons to determine eligibility for admission, residence, and travel in the U.S. DWAs: Interview people to obtain information about actions or status of individuals. | Examine personal documentation to ensure that it is valid. [Core] [82% incumbents] Detain persons found to be in violation of customs or immigration laws and arrange for legal action, such as deportation. DWAs: Detain suspects or witnesses. [Core] [82% incumbents] Inspect cargo, baggage, and personal articles entering or leaving U.S. for compliance with revenue laws and U.S. customs regulations. DWAs: Inspect cargo to identify potential hazards. [Core] [82% incumbents] Locate and seize contraband, undeclared merchandise, and vehicles, aircraft, or boats that contain such merchandise. DWAs: Locate suspicious objects or vehicles. | Confiscate prohibited or dangerous items. [Core] [82% incumbents] Interpret and explain laws and regulations to travelers, prospective immigrants, shippers, and manufacturers. DWAs: Inform others about laws or regulations. [Core] [82% incumbents] Institute civil and criminal prosecutions and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies in the investigation and prosecution of those in violation of immigration or customs laws. DWAs: Investigate illegal or suspicious activities. | Collaborate with law enforcement or security agencies to share information. [Core] [82% incumbents] Determine duty and taxes to be paid on goods. DWAs: Calculate tax information. [Core] [82% incumbents] Collect samples of merchandise for examination, appraisal, or testing. DWAs: Obtain property information. [Supplemental] [82% incumbents] Investigate applications for duty refunds and petition for remission or mitigation of penalties when warranted. DWAs: Investigate legal issues. [Core] [81% incumbents] Testify regarding decisions at immigration appeals or in federal court. DWAs: Testify at legal or legislative proceedings. [Core] [81% incumbents] Record and report job-related activities, findings, transactions, violations, discrepancies, and decisions. DWAs: Maintain operational records.
--- SKILLS --- Active Listening (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand Speaking (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — Talking to others to convey information effectively. Critical Thinking (imp:4.00 lvl:3.88) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ Reading Comprehension (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents. Writing (imp:3.62 lvl:3.75) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc Monitoring (imp:3.62 lvl:3.75) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization Active Learning (imp:3.38 lvl:3.12) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr Learning Strategies (imp:2.62 lvl:2.88) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo Mathematics (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Using mathematics to solve problems. Science (imp:1.88 lvl:1.12) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems. --- KNOWLEDGE --- Law and Government (imp:4.48 lvl:4.45) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat Public Safety and Security (imp:4.32 lvl:4.53) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote English Language (imp:3.91 lvl:4.16) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea Customer and Personal Service (imp:3.57 lvl:4.82) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic Psychology (imp:3.42 lvl:4.15) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, Administrative (imp:3.21 lvl:3.49) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce Computers and Electronics (imp:3.20 lvl:3.49) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput Geography (imp:3.17 lvl:4.09) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an Sociology and Anthropology (imp:3.09 lvl:3.23) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human Education and Training (imp:3.08 lvl:3.74) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching Foreign Language (imp:3.02 lvl:3.02) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu Transportation (imp:2.82 lvl:2.87) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea Administration and Management (imp:2.70 lvl:2.79) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, Telecommunications (imp:2.51 lvl:1.89) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te Philosophy and Theology (imp:2.42 lvl:2.88) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their Mathematics (imp:2.40 lvl:2.27) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl Communications and Media (imp:2.34 lvl:2.19) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m Personnel and Human Resources (imp:2.30 lvl:2.10) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra History and Archeology (imp:2.26 lvl:2.42) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi Chemistry (imp:2.09 lvl:2.25) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a Economics and Accounting (imp:1.99 lvl:1.56) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar Biology (imp:1.97 lvl:1.94) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.92 lvl:1.89) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r Production and Processing (imp:1.90 lvl:1.68) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.73 lvl:1.44) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i Mechanical (imp:1.72 lvl:1.32) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main Physics (imp:1.66 lvl:1.20) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, Engineering and Technology (imp:1.61 lvl:1.00) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th Design (imp:1.49 lvl:0.92) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of Building and Construction (imp:1.42 lvl:0.79) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r Fine Arts (imp:1.29 lvl:0.41) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform Sales and Marketing (imp:1.26 lvl:0.59) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products Food Production (imp:1.23 lvl:0.50) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food --- ABILITIES --- Oral Comprehension (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through Oral Expression (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde Problem Sensitivity (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no Inductive Reasoning (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion Near Vision (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). Written Comprehension (imp:3.88 lvl:4.00) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.88 lvl:4.00) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that Speech Clarity (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. Speech Recognition (imp:3.75 lvl:4.12) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. Written Expression (imp:3.62 lvl:3.75) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under Information Ordering (imp:3.38 lvl:3.38) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.38 lvl:3.38) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so Perceptual Speed (imp:3.25 lvl:3.12) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among Selective Attention (imp:3.25 lvl:3.38) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac Far Vision (imp:3.25 lvl:3.38) — The ability to see details at a distance. Time Sharing (imp:3.00 lvl:2.75) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of Fluency of Ideas (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas Category Flexibility (imp:2.88 lvl:3.12) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping Finger Dexterity (imp:2.88 lvl:2.88) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot Memorization (imp:2.75 lvl:2.25) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced Speed of Closure (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea Manual Dexterity (imp:2.75 lvl:2.62) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your Multilimb Coordination (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c Depth Perception (imp:2.75 lvl:2.38) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you Auditory Attention (imp:2.75 lvl:2.50) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra Originality (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa Visualization (imp:2.50 lvl:2.38) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:2.50 lvl:2.25) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold Control Precision (imp:2.50 lvl:2.62) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi Reaction Time (imp:2.50 lvl:2.75) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou Static Strength (imp:2.50 lvl:2.75) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects. Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.38 lvl:2.12) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob Trunk Strength (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the Number Facility (imp:2.25 lvl:2.50) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly. Response Orientation (imp:2.25 lvl:2.25) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o Extent Flexibility (imp:2.25 lvl:2.50) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs. Stamina (imp:2.12 lvl:2.00) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.12 lvl:1.75) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch Rate Control (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an Speed of Limb Movement (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs. Explosive Strength (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping Gross Body Coordination (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:2.00 lvl:1.75) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta Glare Sensitivity (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting. Spatial Orientation (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:1.88 lvl:0.88) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and Dynamic Strength (imp:1.88 lvl:1.62) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv Night Vision (imp:1.88 lvl:1.25) — The ability to see under low-light conditions. Peripheral Vision (imp:1.88 lvl:1.38) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar Sound Localization (imp:1.88 lvl:1.12) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated. Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo --- WORK ACTIVITIES --- Getting Information (imp:4.64 lvl:5.46) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour Working with Computers (imp:4.61 lvl:4.81) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:4.54 lvl:5.51) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.46 lvl:5.30) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:4.44 lvl:5.29) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.40 lvl:5.26) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:4.39 lvl:5.21) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving Processing Information (imp:4.38 lvl:5.42) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying Analyzing Data or Information (imp:4.26 lvl:5.23) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:4.24 lvl:5.15) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people. Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:4.24 lvl:5.38) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. Documenting/Recording Information (imp:4.24 lvl:5.30) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:4.02 lvl:5.27) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.92 lvl:4.48) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:3.84 lvl:4.29) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.76 lvl:4.71) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.67 lvl:3.81) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:3.57 lvl:3.86) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, Performing Administrative Activities (imp:3.56 lvl:4.06) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:3.42 lvl:4.01) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.40 lvl:4.18) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your Performing General Physical Activities (imp:3.40 lvl:3.98) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:3.32 lvl:2.94) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s Training and Teaching Others (imp:3.30 lvl:4.02) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr Coaching and Developing Others (imp:3.17 lvl:3.99) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:3.09 lvl:3.43) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:3.07 lvl:3.52) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others. Developing and Building Teams (imp:3.02 lvl:3.45) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe Thinking Creatively (imp:3.01 lvl:3.91) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:2.97 lvl:3.80) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks. Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.96 lvl:3.31) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.93 lvl:3.33) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:2.88 lvl:3.17) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.81 lvl:3.21) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.81 lvl:2.98) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money. Handling and Moving Objects (imp:2.77 lvl:3.79) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, Staffing Organizational Units (imp:2.28 lvl:2.20) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:2.11 lvl:1.92) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.10 lvl:1.80) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:1.94 lvl:1.66) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:1.94 lvl:1.70) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an --- WORK STYLES --- Dependability (imp:7.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Attention to Detail (imp:6.00) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Integrity (imp:5.00) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Cautiousness (imp:4.00) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Self-Control (imp:3.00) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Integrity (imp:2.93) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work. Dependability (imp:2.65) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o Attention to Detail (imp:2.63) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work. Cautiousness (imp:2.58) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related Stress Tolerance (imp:2.55) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Self-Control (imp:2.50) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res Perseverance (imp:2.04) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Stress Tolerance (imp:2.00) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work. Self-Confidence (imp:1.83) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Adaptability (imp:1.75) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Achievement Orientation (imp:1.71) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Leadership Orientation (imp:1.64) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:1.20) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Social Orientation (imp:1.20) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Initiative (imp:1.02) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Perseverance (imp:1.00) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in Intellectual Curiosity (imp:0.81) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Cooperation (imp:0.78) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Empathy (imp:0.64) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Sincerity (imp:0.57) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Optimism (imp:0.45) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Innovation () — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on Achievement Orientation () — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, Intellectual Curiosity () — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work. Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may Adaptability () — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work. Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work. Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work. Humility (imp:-0.35) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work. Innovation (imp:-0.37) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on --- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS --- Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.88 lvl:3.38) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do. Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.62 lvl:3.50) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m Coordination (imp:3.38 lvl:3.38) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions. Persuasion (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior. Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.12 lvl:3.00) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev Negotiation (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences. Service Orientation (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Actively looking for ways to help people. Time Management (imp:3.00 lvl:3.25) — Managing one's own time and the time of others. Instructing (imp:2.75 lvl:3.00) — Teaching others how to do something. Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best Systems Analysis (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, Operations Monitoring (imp:2.38 lvl:2.25) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr Systems Evaluation (imp:2.38 lvl:2.50) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed Operation and Control (imp:2.25 lvl:2.12) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems. Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.12 lvl:1.88) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate Troubleshooting (imp:1.75 lvl:0.88) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it. Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.75 lvl:0.75) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the Management of Material Resources (imp:1.75 lvl:1.12) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi Operations Analysis (imp:1.50 lvl:0.62) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design. Technology Design (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs. Programming (imp:1.50 lvl:0.50) — Writing computer programs for various purposes. Equipment Selection (imp:1.00) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job. Installation (imp:1.00) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications. Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o Repairing (imp:1.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
--- NATIONAL WAGES --- total_employment : 670,520 annual_median : $76,210 annual_pct10 : $47,510 annual_pct25 : $59,290 annual_pct75 : $97,600 annual_pct90 : $115,120 annual_mean : $79,200 hourly_median : $36.64 --- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION --- highest_state : California ($118,880) lowest_state : Puerto Rico ($45,510) dispersion_ratio : 2.612x --- TOP STATES BY WAGE (53 total) --- Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp: 642,460 median: $ 76,520 Educational Services emp: 24,080 median: $ 62,110 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 3,210 median: $ 65,640 Transportation and Warehousing emp: 370 median: $ 83,620 --- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (4 total) --- Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) emp: 642,460 median: $ 76,520 Educational Services emp: 24,080 median: $ 62,110 Health Care and Social Assistance emp: 3,210 median: $ 65,640 Transportation and Warehousing emp: 370 median: $ 83,620
exact_match_status : found matched_title : Australian Customs and Border Protection Service match_score : 0.7674 wikidata_qid : Q3306020 word_count : 1,404 wikipedia_url : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Customs_and_Border_Protection_Service license : CC BY-SA 4.0 fetched_at : 2026-06-02T21:59:36.478712Z --- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT --- The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service was an Australian federal government agency responsible for managing the security and integrity of the Australian border and facilitating the movement of legitimate international travellers and goods, whilst protecting the safety, security and commercial interests of Australians. It was headquartered in Canberra and employed over 5,800 people around Australia and overseas. The agency was under the jurisdiction of the Attorney-General's Department from 2009 to 2013, and then transferred to the newly formed Department of Immigration and Border Protection in 2013, until its transformation into the Australian Border Force in 2015. The functions of the agency are now delivered by the Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force. == Agency role == The Service defined its role as follows: “Our role is complex and diverse and requires a very considered and increasingly targeted approach to conducting our business. If we do not manage our responsibilities effectively, the potential impacts… may negatively affect the Australian community, international travellers and trade relations both here and overseas” The Service was Australia's predominant border control agency. From international travellers at airports, to overseas mail and trade brought in by sea, it was responsible for the continued safety and security of the people and goods that travel across Australia's borders. In conjunction with the Australian Defence Force, the Service facilitated Australia's response to the detection and rescue of 'suspected irregular entry vessels' that smuggled people from South-East Asia into Australian waters. The agency was also responsible for the discovery and apprehension of 'illegal foreign fishing vessels', the patrol of remote Australian and international waters, and aerial surveillance of Australia's coastline. To achieve these functions, the Service operated its own air and sea patrol unit, the Customs Marine Unit. The Service used an intelligence-led, risk-based approach to managing threats, focussing on specific targets that may pose a risk to the border. This allowed the agency to plan coordinated responses, interventions and strategies with various other government agencies, including; Australian Crime Commission, Australian Federal Police, Attorney-General's Department, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Department of Defence, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Department of Immigration and Border Protection and the Office of Transport Security. === Import and export control === Customs controlled the import and export of goods to and from Australia, in particular the control of prohibited or restricted items, and the interception of illegal and potentially harmful goods such as drugs, weapons and computer games. Techniques used to target high-risk aircraft, vessels, cargo, postal items and travellers included using intelligence, computer-based profiling and analysis, detector dogs, Smartgate, container X-ray facilities, closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitoring and other means. Customs officers at air and sea ports, in addition to performing basic immigration control (see below), assessed passengers arrival and departure cards, and had the authority to scan and search passenger baggage. Quarantine risk material could be referred to Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service officers. Goods arriving from overseas by post were cleared by Customs and AQIS officers before being released to Australia Post for delivery. Customs collected goods and services tax (GST) on taxable goods imported into Australia. Customs administered the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) for tourists visiting Australia temporarily or Australian residents leaving the country, allowing them, under certain conditions, to claim a refund of the GST or Wine equalisation tax on items purchased in Australia. === People smuggling === The Service was the lead agency in the Australian government's response to people-smuggling and often performed activities on behalf of other agencies including: Monitoring Australian waters for potential people smuggling vessels Intercepting boats carrying immigrants without valid visas with Bay Class vessels Transporting people found in vessels to Australian territory for immigration and quarantine assessment Coordinating education and awareness campaigns overseas to deter people-smuggling activities === Terrorism === The Service operated under the 'National Counter-Terrorism Plan', which was a plan intended to mitigate any risk of terrorism in Australia. The Service worked in conjunction with other Australian Government departments to screen and target any potential threats moving across the border, including: Air and sea passengers Cargo (sea, air and mail) Maritime surveillance Remote area patrols === Illegal entry === The Service was responsible for processing all travellers entering and leaving the country. At the border, Service officers would check all passengers to ensure compliance with customs, immigration and quarantine requirements. The Service's purpose was to stop people without correct documentation or visas from entering the country. === Controlled substances === One of the largest areas of work undertaken by the Service was in relation to the importation of narcotics and precursor substances and the smuggling of illegal amounts of tobacco. Examination techniques such as x-ray, trace detection technology and detector dogs were used to screen people, goods, mail, vessels and aircraft moving across Australia's border. === Prohibited material === Australian law prohibits the importing of any material of an offensive, grotesque or otherwise objectionable nature. The Service worked to prevent the importation of material that was either refused classification by the Australian Classification Board, or was unclassified but would likely be refused classification by the Australian Classification Board. This included material in electronic form such as CDs or DVDs, computer hard drives and within electronic games. Prohibited material included, but was not limited to: Child pornography Offensive or sexualised violence Criminal or terrorist material Drug use Fetish material === Illegal foreign fishing === The Service was the lead agency coordinating regular patrol (both aerial surveillance and on-water) of Australia's 'Exclusive Economic Zone' to detect and deter any foreign fishing vessels. Along with dedicated in-country education programs designed to deter people from undertaking illegal fishing, the Service's work saw a continual decline in the rates of foreign fishing vessels entering the EEZ. == History == === Establishment === The Australian Customs and Border Protection Service had its origins in the Department of Trade and Customs, established at federation in 1901. The organisation was restructured several times since, including becoming the Department of Customs and Excise in 1958 and then briefly the Department of Police and Customs in 1975. Later that same year, the Bureau of Customs was established, which remained the Australian Government's customs agency until 1985 when the Australian Customs Service was established. In December 2008 then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd announced that the Australian Government would be augmenting, re-tasking and renaming the Australian Customs Service to create the new Australian Customs and Border Protection Service. Royal Assent was given to the changes on 22 May 2009 and the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service was established. === Australian Border Force === In 2015, the Australian Government announced changes to the Immigration and Border Protection portfolio in relation to future border protection arrangements. From 1 July 2015, the Department of Immigration and Border Protection and the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service were consolidated into a single Department of Immigra --- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) --- Title: United States border preclearance (similarity: 0.5352) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_border_preclearance QID: Q3408858 Extract: United States border preclearance is a method of prescreening border control operated by the United States Department of Homeland Security to screen individuals seeking entry to the United States in eligible facilities located outside of the United States pursuant to agreements between the United St Title: Australian Border Force (similarity: 0.5246) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Border_Force QID: Q17000879 Extract: The Australian Border Force (ABF) is a federal law enforcement agency, part of the Department of Home Affairs, responsible for offshore and onshore border enforcement, investigations, compliance, detention operations and customs services in Australia. Through the ABF's Marine Unit, the ABF performs Title: Otay Mesa Port of Entry (similarity: 0.3279) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Otay_Mesa_Port_of_Entry QID: Q7108476 Extract: The Otay Mesa Port of Entry is one of three ports of entry (POE) in the San Diego–Tijuana metropolitan region, in the U.S. state of California, connecting Otay Mesa in San Diego with the Otay Centenario borough of Tijuana. The facility was opened in 1983, and was constructed primarily to divert grow Title: List of unarmed African Americans killed by law enforcement officers in the United States (similarity: 0.3465) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_unarmed_African_Americans_killed_by_law_enforcement_officers_in_the_United_States QID: Q106611537 Extract: This is a list of African Americans reportedly killed while unarmed by non-military law enforcement officers in the United States. Events are listed whether they took place in the line of duty or not, and regardless of reason or method. The listing documents the occurrence of a death, making no impl Title: Police dog (similarity: 0.1667) URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Police_dog QID: Q39235 Extract: A police dog, also known as a K-9, is a dog that is trained to assist police and other law enforcement officers. Their duties may include searching for drugs and explosives, locating missing people, finding crime scene evidence, protecting officers and other people, and attacking suspects who flee f
model_pass1 : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2 : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes : Strong confidence based on comprehensive O*NET data covering all key occupation dimensions, clear BLS wage data, and well-defined tasks and requirements. The role is well-established with clear pathways and consistent employment patterns.
inferred_at : 2026-06-03T20:38:39.585015+00:00
tokens_input : 4,686
tokens_output : 4,220
cost_usd : $0.046142
wikipedia_used : False
wikipedia_title : Australian Customs and Border Protection Service
wikipedia_note : The Wikipedia match references Australia's border protection agency rather than U.S. customs officers, though the functions are analogous. The semantic neighbors provide relevant context about border control operations and port entries.
--- PROSE FIELDS ---
ROLE SUMMARY:
Customs and Border Protection Officers are federal law enforcement professionals who inspect people, cargo, and documentation at U.S. borders and ports of entry to enforce immigration and customs laws. They conduct interviews, examine documents, search baggage and vehicles, and detain individuals who violate federal regulations. These officers serve as the first line of defense for national security while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.
DAY IN THE LIFE:
Officers begin shifts by reviewing intelligence briefings and checking equipment at ports of entry, airports, or border crossings. They examine passports, visas, and immigration documents while interviewing travelers to assess eligibility for entry into the United States. Throughout the day, they inspect cargo shipments, personal baggage, and vehicles using technology tools like x-ray machines and computer databases to identify contraband or prohibited items. They calculate duties and taxes on imported goods, complete detailed inspection reports, and coordinate with other agencies when violations are discovered. Officers frequently detain individuals for further questioning and may participate in investigations that lead to criminal prosecutions.
WHO THRIVES:
Successful officers possess exceptional attention to detail and strong analytical thinking skills to identify discrepancies in documentation and detect deceptive behavior during interviews. They demonstrate high integrity and dependability, as the role requires making critical decisions that affect national security and individual lives. These professionals excel at multitasking under pressure, switching between routine inspections and high-stakes enforcement actions while maintaining professional composure. Strong communication skills enable them to explain complex regulations to diverse audiences and work effectively with law enforcement partners across multiple agencies.
CAREER ENTRY:
Entry typically requires a high school diploma (39% of workers) or bachelor's degree (27.1%), with some college coursework also common (14.2%). Candidates must pass extensive background investigations, medical examinations, and specialized training programs covering immigration law, customs regulations, and inspection procedures. Previous experience in law enforcement, military service, or customer service is valued but not always required. New hires complete several months of federal training at specialized facilities before assignment to field positions.
CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Officers can advance to supervisory roles overseeing teams of inspectors or specialized units like K-9 operations and anti-smuggling investigations. Many transition to detective work, compliance officer positions, or management roles within Customs and Border Protection or other federal agencies. The strong foundation in federal law enforcement opens pathways to careers with FBI, DEA, or other investigative agencies. Senior officers may become trainers, policy specialists, or move into private sector security consulting roles.
MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
The occupation employs 670,520 workers with a median annual wage of $76,210 (BLS OEWS May 2025), ranging from $47,510 to $115,120 for the 10th to 90th percentiles. California offers the highest wages at $118,880 annually, while Puerto Rico has the lowest at $45,510, creating a 2.61x geographic wage differential. Federal, state, and local government agencies employ 642,460 officers (95.8% of total employment), with smaller numbers in educational services and healthcare. Geographic demand concentrates along major borders, international airports, and seaports, with strong job security due to ongoing national security priorities.
AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
The role maintains strong automation resistance due to the complex human judgment required for interviewing travelers, detecting deceptive behavior, and making nuanced decisions about immigration eligibility. While technology assists with document scanning and database queries, the core activities of evaluating compliance with standards, identifying suspicious objects and behaviors, and making critical decisions require human expertise. Advanced screening technologies may streamline routine inspections but will likely augment rather than replace officer capabilities for complex enforcement situations.
--- REASONED EDGES ---
[skill_overlap] Detectives and Criminal Investigators (33-3021.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both roles require high-level critical thinking, active listening, and investigation skills with strong emphasis on law enforcement knowledge.
data: Critical Thinking (imp:4.0)
data: Law and Government knowledge (imp:4.5)
data: Investigating illegal activities task
[riasec_cluster] Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers (33-3051.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Strong Conventional (C:5.27) and Enterprising (E:4.29) RIASEC profiles align with law enforcement occupations requiring rule enforcement and authority.
data: RIASEC C:5.27
data: RIASEC E:4.29
data: Public Safety knowledge (imp:4.3)
[task_similarity] Compliance Officers (13-1041.00) — confidence:high
reasoning: Both roles focus heavily on evaluating information to determine compliance with standards and interpreting regulations for the public.
data: Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance (imp:4.4)
data: Interpret and explain laws task
data: Law and Government knowledge
[task_similarity] Transportation Security Screeners (33-9093.00) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Both occupations involve inspecting cargo, baggage, and personal articles to identify prohibited items and ensure security compliance.
data: Inspect cargo and baggage task
data: Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:4.5)
data: Public Safety knowledge
[knowledge_overlap] Government Property Inspectors and Investigators (13-1041.04) — confidence:medium
reasoning: Shared requirements for law and government knowledge, administrative processes, and evaluation of compliance with federal regulations.
data: Law and Government (imp:4.5)
data: Administrative knowledge (imp:3.2)
data: Government employment sector
--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
match_keywords : ['customs officer', 'border patrol', 'immigration inspector', 'customs inspector', 'border protection', 'customs specialist', 'immigration officer', 'customs agent']
exclude_keywords : ['private security', 'airport screener', 'warehouse inspector', 'quality inspector', 'customs broker']
title_patterns : ['customs and border', 'border patrol', 'immigration', 'customs officer', 'cbp officer']
common_variations: ['CBP Officer', 'Customs Inspector', 'Border Patrol Agent', 'Immigration Officer', 'Customs Specialist', 'Port Inspector', 'Agricultural Specialist', 'Customs Import Specialist']
total_terms : 40 top_words : ['border', 'tendency', 'australian', 'others', 'customs', 'service', 'equipment', 'protection', 'immigration', 'control', 'officers', 'australia', 'enforcement', 'principles', 'law', 'agency', 'goods', 'activities', 'objects', 'security'] source_layers : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference TERM COUNT FREQ DOMINANT SOURCE SOURCE BREAKDOWN ────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────── border 43 0.01196 wikipedia wikipedia:88% inference:12% tendency 42 0.01169 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% australian 40 0.01113 wikipedia wikipedia:100% others 39 0.01085 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:97% dwas:3% customs 38 0.01057 wikipedia wikipedia:76% inference:13% onet_tasks:8% service 32 0.00890 wikipedia wikipedia:88% onet_dimensions:6% inference:6% equipment 24 0.00668 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:96% inference:4% protection 22 0.00612 wikipedia wikipedia:82% inference:14% onet_dimensions:5% immigration 18 0.00501 wikipedia wikipedia:56% onet_tasks:22% inference:22% control 18 0.00501 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:67% wikipedia:28% inference:6% officers 18 0.00501 wikipedia wikipedia:50% inference:50% australia 17 0.00473 wikipedia wikipedia:94% inference:6% enforcement 16 0.00445 wikipedia wikipedia:50% inference:38% onet_tasks:6% principles 16 0.00445 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% law 15 0.00417 wikipedia wikipedia:47% inference:33% onet_tasks:7% agency 15 0.00417 wikipedia wikipedia:87% onet_dimensions:7% inference:7% goods 14 0.00390 wikipedia wikipedia:57% onet_dimensions:29% onet_tasks:7% activities 14 0.00390 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:64% wikipedia:14% onet_tasks:7% objects 14 0.00390 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:86% dwas:7% inference:7% security 13 0.00362 wikipedia wikipedia:38% inference:38% onet_dimensions:15% includes 12 0.00334 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% techniques 12 0.00334 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:83% wikipedia:17% agencies 11 0.00306 inference inference:45% wikipedia:36% onet_tasks:9% government 11 0.00306 wikipedia wikipedia:64% onet_dimensions:27% inference:9% material 11 0.00306 wikipedia wikipedia:73% onet_dimensions:27% ideas 11 0.00306 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% force 11 0.00306 wikipedia wikipedia:73% onet_dimensions:27% entry 11 0.00306 wikipedia wikipedia:64% inference:36% monitoring 10 0.00278 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:80% wikipedia:20% procedures 10 0.00278 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:80% wikipedia:10% inference:10% sea 10 0.00278 wikipedia wikipedia:80% onet_dimensions:20% materials 10 0.00278 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% actions 10 0.00278 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:80% dwas:10% inference:10% body 10 0.00278 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% laws 9 0.00250 onet_tasks onet_tasks:44% onet_dimensions:33% dwas:11% cargo 9 0.00250 wikipedia wikipedia:56% inference:22% onet_tasks:11% personal 9 0.00250 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:67% onet_tasks:11% dwas:11% problems 9 0.00250 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:100% operations 9 0.00250 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:67% inference:22% wikipedia:11% services 9 0.00250 onet_dimensions onet_dimensions:67% wikipedia:22% inference:11%