Jason McDonald - Customs Officer, Examinations, Dunedin

Working at a district port gives me the opportunity to work with a range of different Customs groups such as Inspections, Marine, Airports and Client Services.  On any given day I could be dealing with the public and customs brokers in relation to imported or exported goods interacting with passengers and crew arriving/departing at airports or on a vessel, or examining cargo using either x-ray technology or a physical search. Our x-ray truck travels all over the South Island so my role frequently involves trips away. 

After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts from Otago University, I started looking for a job that would challenge me to step out of my comfort zone.  I particularly enjoy the way this job encourages personality and skills development, such as becoming more confident in the way you approach the public and clients, applying legislation and making decisions.   

My role also allows me to be on the frontline every day.  Our team completes immigration processing for inbound and outgoing passengers, boards vessels, undertakes search activity on passengers and cargo, and screens cargo.  We provide information to our intelligence division in order for Customs to better target and facilitate the movement of craft and passengers across New Zealand's border.

This role requires physical fitness, the ability to switch between roles easily, and flexibility in relation to work hours/travel.  Any person who enjoys responsibility, working at the coalface, and working within a team environment would suit this role.