Working for Customs
Customs is an equal opportunities employer. We seek to encourage equal access and consideration, in areas of recruitment, selection, promotion, conditions of employment and career development, for people to pursue their careers without their chances being reduced by factors such as ethnicity, gender, country of origin, marital status, and disability. More detail below on:
RequirementsApplying For a PositionGetting Started in Customs- Requirements
The skills, experience and qualifications required for a position at Customs depend upon the role applied for, but there are basic criteria that must be met before a person can be considered for any position in the Customs Service.
Although the Customs Service occasionally accepts school leavers, there is a preference for people who have attained a tertiary qualification or have relevant previous experience.
The basic skills required are:
- keyboard familiarity
- word processing skills
- team skills
- analytical skills.
General skills that are also expected of a New Zealand Customs officer are:
- good people skills
- computer related skills
- a reputation for integrity, honesty and trustworthiness.
The nature of the position usually determines other specific skills necessary for the job.
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- Applying For a Position
If you would like to apply for a vacant position at the New Zealand Customs Service, see
Current Vacancies for current positions available.
A security clearance is required if you are selected for appointment.
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- Getting Started in Customs
During your first few weeks, you will attend Getting Started - an orientation to Customs course.
This course is designed to introduce new employees to the Customs culture and enable you to be productive as early as possible. It includes presentations by various staff members who will give you a great overview of the various sections of the business, along with an introduction to the key strategies, offerings and policies of Customs. It is a great way to meet new people from other sections of the business.
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