Position Overview
A global third-party logistics and supply chain company is seeking a Customs Brokerage Supervisor to oversee customs clearance and transportation processes for imported and exported goods. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance with U.S. and international trade regulations, supervising a brokerage team, maintaining high standards of customer service, and driving operational efficiency.
- Schedule: Tuesday–Saturday, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Location: Des Plaines, Illinois
Key Responsibilities
- Customer Service and Team Leadership
- Deliver excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
- Supervise daily activities of the customs brokerage department.
- Train, mentor, and retain staff members.
- Conduct team meetings to review performance, discuss improvements, and communicate updates.
- Address employee performance issues in accordance with company policies.
Customs Compliance and Documentation
- Review shipment documentation such as commercial invoices, bills of lading, and shipping statements for accuracy and regulatory compliance.
- Ensure adherence to U.S. Customs and international trade regulations.
- Calculate duties, tariffs, currency conversions, weights, and volumes for imported and exported goods.
- Coordinate with customs authorities to obtain cargo release and resolve clearance delays.
Operational Management
- Establish and maintain policies, procedures, and service standards for customs clearance operations.
- Monitor key performance indicators and operational statistics.
- Conduct audits of shipment files and accounting records.
- Identify areas of concern in customer import and export processes and recommend corrective actions.
- Communicate operational progress and issues to management.
- Participate in departmental projects and process improvement initiatives.
- Support after-hours and on-call responsibilities as needed.
Required Qualifications
- Education and Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum of four years of relevant customs brokerage or logistics experience.
- At least one year of supervisory experience.
- Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Finance, or a related field preferred.
- Three years of industry experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of Import Brokerage, Export Compliance, ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations), Hazardous Materials Regulations
- Regulatory recordkeeping requirements
Skills and Competencies
- Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office and web-based software.
- Ability to assign and prioritize work effectively.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to present solutions and implement improvements.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to interpret business publications, technical procedures, and government regulations.
- Experience writing reports, correspondence, and procedural manuals.
Compensation and Benefits
The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Medical insurance
- Employee discount programs
- Gym membership discounts
- Travel and retail discounts
- Pet insurance