Manager, Customs, Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Administrator

DSV - Global transport and logistics
In 1976, ten independent hauliers joined forces and founded DSV in Denmark. Since then, DSV has evolved to become the world's 3rd largest supplier of global solutions within transport and logistics. Today, we add value to our customers' entire supply chain by transporting, storing, packaging, re-packaging, processing and clearing all types of goods. We work every day from our many offices in more than 80 countries to ensure a steady supply of goods to production lines, outlets, stores and consumers all over the world. Our reach is global yet our presence is local and close to our customers. Read more at

Location: USA - Itasca, N Arlington Heights Rd 

Division: Group 

Job Posting Title: Manager, Customs, Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Administrator 

Time Type: Full Time

Summary:

The Customs Manager, FTZ Administrator oversees day-to-day FTZ operations and leads a team of FTZ specialists to ensure compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations. This role is responsible for managing FTZ admissions, withdrawals, reporting, and inventory control, while also serving as a key liaison between internal departments, clients, and regulatory agencies.

Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Oversight

• Supervise and mentor FTZ team members, providing training and performance feedback.
• Assign and monitor daily tasks to ensure timely and accurate FTZ operations.
• Develop and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and compliance.

FTZ Operations & Compliance

• Oversee FTZ admissions, withdrawals, and inventory reconciliation.
• Ensure timely and accurate submission of CBP forms (e.g., 214, 7512) and FTZ reports (weekly, monthly, annual).
• Maintain compliance with CBP regulations and internal policies.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Act as the primary point of contact for CBP, clients, and internal departments regarding FTZ matters.
• Collaborate with warehouse, logistics, and finance teams to resolve discrepancies and support operational goals.

Documentation & Reporting

• Ensure proper recordkeeping of all FTZ transactions and customs documentation.
• Review and approve reports such as the Annual Reconciliation, Blanket 216, and FTZ Board filings.

Risk Management & Audit Support

• Identify and mitigate compliance risks related to FTZ operations.
• Support internal and external audits by providing documentation and process explanations.

Educational background / Work experience

• Bachelor’s degree in International Trade, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field, strongly preferred
• Advanced coursework or certifications in Customs Compliance or International Business is a plus
• 4+ years of experience in FTZ operations, customs brokerage, or trade compliance
• 1–2 years of supervisory or team leadership experience in a logistics or compliance environment
• Proven track record of managing CBP filings, FTZ reporting, and inventory control systems
• Certifications (Preferred but Not Always Required)
  • Licensed Customs Broker (LCB)
  • Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)
  • Accredited Zone Specialist (AZS) or Certified Zone Specialist (CZS)
  • Lean Six Sigma or similar process improvement certification

Skills & Competencies

• Regulatory Expertise
  • Deep understanding of CBP regulations, FTZ procedures, and trade compliance requirements.
  • Proficient in HTS classification, valuation, and country of origin rules.
• Operational Leadership
  • Ability to lead and mentor a team of FTZ specialists.
  • Skilled in delegating tasks, managing workloads, and driving performance.
• Analytical Thinking
  • Strong problem-solving skills for resolving customs and inventory discrepancies.
  • Capable of interpreting data and identifying compliance risks or process gaps.
• Attention to Detail
  • High level of accuracy in documentation, reporting, and inventory control.
  • Ensures all filings and records meet audit and regulatory standards.
• Communication & Collaboration
  • Effective communicator with internal teams, clients, and government agencies.
  • Able to explain complex FTZ and customs concepts clearly and professionally.
• Time & Task Management
  • Manages multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ensures timely submission of CBP forms and FTZ reports.
• Technical Proficiency
  • Proficient in ACE, ABI, ICRS, and ERP systems.
  • Skilled in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools for data analysis and compliance tracking.
• Risk & Compliance Awareness
  • Proactively identifies and mitigates compliance risks.
  • Supports internal audits and ensures adherence to company and regulatory policies.

Language skills

• Fluent in English (oral and written)

Computer Literacy

The Customs Manager, Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Administrator should have strong computer literacy across several key systems and tools to effectively manage compliance, reporting, and team operations.

• FTZ & Customs Systems
  • ACE (Automated Commercial Environment)
  • ABI (Automated Broker Interface)
  • ICRS (Inventory Control and Recordkeeping System) 
• Office & Productivity Tools such as Microsoft Suite
• Reporting & Data Tools
  • Customs reporting platforms
  • Data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI)
• General IT Proficiency
• Ability to troubleshoot basic system issues or coordinate with IT support
• Familiarity with data security and compliance protocols

At Will Employment

DSV Air & Sea Inc. employees are hired for an undefined period of time as “at will” employees. This means that an employee may be terminated for any reason, or no reason at all, at any time, provided the discharge does not violate any law*. Additionally, each employee has the right to terminate his/her employment at any time. *Except if employed in Montana, where termination requires just cause.

For this position, the expected base pay is: $106,000 - $132,000 / Annual. Actual base compensation will be determined based on various factors including job-related knowledge, skills, experience, geographic location and other objective business considerations.

DSV provides a comprehensive package of health benefits including: medical, prescription, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with flexible and health spending accounts, short and long-term disability coverage, and wellness resources to support your overall well-being. In addition, our 401(k) plan offers company-matching contributions up to 5% to help you build a secure financial future. To support a healthy work-life balance, DSV also offers generous paid time off, paid holidays, and additional floating holidays.

DSV does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Please do not forward unsolicited resumes to our website, employees, or Human Resources. DSV will not be responsible for any agency fees associated with unsolicited resumes. Unsolicited resumes received will be considered property of DSV and will be processed accordingly without fees.

Information regarding DSV’s benefits offerings, including eligibility, coverage options, and plan 
details, is available through the DSV Benefits Showcase . Benefits, programs, and eligibility may vary by location and division in accordance with applicable state and local laws.

DSV is an equal employment opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, ancestry, disability, veteran status, marital status, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. If you require special assistance or accommodation while seeking employment with DSV, please contact Human Resources at View email address on us.fitly.work . If you are interested in learning the status of your application, please note you will be contacted directly by the appropriate human resources contact person if you are selected for further consideration. DSV reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time.

DSV – Global transport and logistics

What moves you?

At DSV, we move more than goods. We move careers, ambitions and opportunities.

With close to 150,000 colleagues in over 90 countries, we are the global leader in transport and logistics, and it is our people who bring our services and solutions to life every day. From frontline operations to business functions, every role contributes to keeping supply chains flowing and societies running.

Here, you are trusted to take ownership, act on your ideas and make decisions that create real impact. It is a place where people, careers and ideas keep moving forward. We value transparency in how we communicate and collaborate, and we win together by supporting each other, challenging each other and delivering results as a team.

Start here. Go anywhere

This is our promise of movement. A promise that your work matters, your contribution counts, and your career can move as far as your ambition takes it.

If you are looking to make an impact, grow your career and be part of something bigger, DSV is the place to be.

Visit dsv.com and follow us on LinkedIn , Instagram and Facebook

#StartHereGoAnywhere #LifeAtDSV