Import Specialist
Performs import specialist work including tariff classification, customs valuation, and trade compliance.
š°GS-1889 Salary Information
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.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-1889
Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Administrative and Management Positions
Individual Occupational Requirements:
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in business, international trade, or related field
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):
- Upper third of graduating class in college/university or major subdivision
- GPA of 3.0 or higher out of 4.0 as recorded on official transcript, OR 3.5 or higher in major field
- Election to membership in national scholastic honor society
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.
šļøTips for Veterans
- āTranslate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- āHighlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- āVeterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- āExperience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
šHow to Qualify for GS-1889
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal import specialist position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your 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).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
šļøMilitary to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-1889
Traffic Management
Freight movement, customs and import documentation, and HAZMAT and shipment compliance line up with tariff classification and trade compliance.
Transportation Management Coordinator
Movement documentation, customs coordination, and shipment tracking transfer to import classification, valuation, and trade compliance.
Logistics/Embarkation Specialist
Embarkation handles customs, import, and export documentation for deploying units, which maps to import classification and trade compliance work.
š” Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
šTypical Duties
- ā¢Classify imported merchandise
- ā¢Determine customs value
- ā¢Enforce trade laws
- ā¢Review entry documents
- ā¢Assess duties and taxes
- ā¢Investigate trade violations
šÆKey Competencies
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.
šResume Keywords
š” Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
āFrequently Asked Questions about GS-1889
What is an Import Specialist?
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.
How much does a federal Import Specialist make?
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.
What are the requirements for GS-1889 positions?
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.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-1889?
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.
What is the career progression for Import Specialist?
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.
How do I apply for GS-1889 jobs on USAJOBS?
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.
Ready to Apply for GS-1889?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.