Customs Brokerage Supervisor

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