Department Manager, Customs Brokerage

Department Manager, Customs Brokerage

Location:
Arlington Heights, IL / Hybrid

Compensation: $105k~$120k/yr (DOE)

Bonus: Annual discretionary bonus. The bonus is discretionary and is not guaranteed.

Hours: 35/wk, 8:30am~4:30pm

Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt

A third-party logistics provider is seeking a Department Manager, Customs Brokerage to oversee customs brokerage operations and support import/export compliance for clients across a nationwide logistics network.

The Department Manager, Customs Brokerage is responsible for ensuring timely and accurate customs entry filing with U.S. Customs and Border Protection for import and export operations. This role oversees daily department operations, supports regulatory compliance, manages staff performance, and helps improve operational efficiency.

• Oversee end-to-end import and export customs operations in collaboration with forwarding teams.
• Review and approve customs entries for accuracy, duty calculations, documentation, and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure adherence to customs regulations, tariff classifications, import/export restrictions, and documentation requirements.
• Address customer needs and resolve issues related to ISF and customs entries.
• Liaise with U.S. Customs, respond to inquiries, and resolve customs and customer-related issues.
• Stay current on customs requirements, international trade regulations, and trade agreements.
• Maintain strong client relationships and support logistics service needs.
• Manage department budget, allocate resources, identify cost‑saving opportunities, and improve efficiency.
• Implement and maintain supply chain security measures, including government and CTPAT requirements.
• Maintain SOPs and KPIs to optimize department processes.
• Support business development efforts for new and existing customer relationships.
• Provide operational and regulatory training to staff and support team development.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Logistics, or related field, or 5+ years of customs brokerage experience in lieu of education.
• 5–7+ years of management experience in customs operations with extensive knowledge of various customs clearance services.
• Active U.S. Customs Broker License preferred
  . Candidates who are not currently licensed are expected to pursue licensure and may be required to obtain it as a condition of continued employment.
• Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) required.
• Strong organizational, time management, multitasking, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Analytical mindset with strong problem‑solving ability.
• Ability to manage a profit center and report on revenue, profit, and loss.
• Ability to speak, read, and comprehend English at a professional working level.
• MUST be proficient with Cargo Wise.

• Work is performed in a standard office environment. The role may require frequent lifting or moving up to 10 pounds, regular sitting, use of hands, talking, hearing, and occasional walking. Travel may be required up to 10%.
• Must be currently authorized to work in the United States. No visa sponsorship is available for this role.

This role may include additional responsibilities as needed based on business needs.