All CEO assignments require being on your feet for long hours, and many duties, particularly at land borders, are physically demanding. The wide variety of ports means there is a great diversity in duties, with some entailing greater law enforcement challenges than others. Make no mistake, a Customs career can be tough work. The hours can be long and there is shift work, but the overtime is well paid. CEOs at land borders and in seaports may work outdoors in all kinds of weather.
Some tasks involve getting dirty while going through cargo.
And, Customs CEOs do carry firearms and may be called upon to use them. For the men and women of the U.S. Customs Service, the rewards include representing your country in the uniform of a proud Federal service. You are also rewarded by knowing that you are doing something positive about stopping the plague of drugs entering our country. To qualify for GS-7, you should have at least one year of experience in law enforcement involving the training and handling of dogs in patrol or detection. Collegiate academic excellence or graduate education can also help fulfill requirements for a GS-7.