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Performs import specialist work including tariff classification, customs valuation, and trade compliance.
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-1889
Individual Occupational Requirements:
Education:
OR
Experience: Experience in customs classification, trade compliance, or international trade.
Education and Experience Requirements (Group Standard):
This is a two-grade interval series. Positions follow the GS-5, GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 progression pattern.
| Grade | Education | Experience | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | Bachelor's degree in any field from accredited college/university | 3 years progressively responsible experience, 1 year equivalent to GS-4 | Equivalent combinations qualifying |
| GS-7 | 1 full year graduate education OR Superior Academic Achievement | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-5 | Combinations of graduate education and experience |
| GS-9 | 2 years graduate education or master's degree | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-7 | Combinations of graduate education (excess of GS-7 requirement) and experience |
| GS-11 | 3 years graduate education or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to GS-9 | Combinations of graduate education (excess of GS-9 requirement) and experience |
| GS-12+ | Not applicable | 1 year specialized experience equivalent to next lower grade | N/A |
Superior Academic Achievement (for GS-7):
Graduate Education: One year of full-time graduate education is the number of credit hours the school determines represents 1 year of full-time study. If unavailable, 18 semester hours satisfies the 1-year requirement.
Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal import specialist position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Skill in classifying imported merchandise.
Knowledge of customs laws and regulations.
Ability to determine proper customs value.
Skill in analyzing import/export transactions.
Ability to review trade documentation.
Skill in identifying trade violations.
Ability to work with importers and brokers.
Skill in researching tariff and trade issues.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-1889 Import Specialist determines proper tariff classification and customs value for imported merchandise entering the United States. These specialists review entry documents, assess duties and taxes, enforce trade laws, investigate trade violations, and work with importers and customs brokers to ensure compliance with complex tariff schedules and trade agreements.
Federal Import Specialists earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $117,034 (GS-13 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Most positions are at GS-9 through GS-12. A GS-11 Import Specialist earns $63,163-$82,108. CBP Centers of Excellence and Expertise (CEEs) and ports of entry hire these specialists for trade enforcement.
GS-1889 follows the administrative qualification standard. Entry at GS-5 requires a bachelor's degree in business, international trade, or related field, or equivalent experience. Higher grades require specialized experience in tariff classification, customs valuation, or trade compliance. Knowledge of Harmonized Tariff Schedule and customs regulations is essential.
Yes, relevant military experience qualifies. Veterans with supply chain, logistics, or customs experience have transferable skills. Military experience with international shipping, export controls, foreign military sales, or logistics documentation provides relevant background. Document any experience with tariff classification or customs procedures.
Import Specialists follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-11 or GS-12. Senior specialists reach GS-13. Career paths include specializing in specific commodity categories (textiles, electronics, agriculture), transitioning to trade enforcement, or advancing to National Import Specialist positions at CEEs.
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Import Specialist" under series 1889. CBP is the primary employer at Centers of Excellence and Expertise and ports of entry. Highlight international trade knowledge, analytical skills, and any customs or logistics experience. Licensed Customs Broker credentials significantly strengthen applications.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.