Import Operations & Compliance Analyst

Chicago - Merchandise Mart
Blommer Chocolate Company (Headquarters)
222 Merchandise Mart Plaza
Suite 626
Chicago, IL , USA

Blommer has been providing delicious, high-quality chocolate and cocoa products to customers since 1939. Built as a family business, we are continuing to grow and are looking for motivated and reliable associates to help in our mission of Bringing Chocolate to Life!

• Ensure compliant execution of U.S. and Canadian import transactions (and limited export transactions) in accordance with customs and PGA requirements and best practices
• Conduct tariff classification (HTSUS/Canadian Customs Tariff) determinations and maintain classification database
• Work with Legal/Trade Compliance on entry‑level and post‑entry reviews to validate accuracy of customs declarations, including with regard to tariff classification, value, and free trade agreement or other special trade program claims

• Serve as the primary liaison with U.S. and Canadian customs brokers.
• Support broker SOPs, issue resolution, and performance tracking.
• Escalate customs clearance or compliance issues as appropriate.

• Support the creation, review, and continuous improvement of commercial documentation and processes required for customs clearance
• Identify and proactively resolve issues impacting customs clearance, e.g., data discrepancies, documentation gaps, FDA requirements, etc.

• Support administration of U.S. and Canadian trade programs, including the Canadian Import for Re‑Export Program for dairy.
• Maintain accurate, audit-ready documentation and records.

• Maintain and analyze import data in ACE and CARM.
• Report on import volumes, duty spend, and related trends.
• Lead data integrity initiatives across vendors and systems as it relates to import operations and requirements

• Partner with Procurement, Engineering, R&D, Finance, and Operations on supplier onboarding and new product launches.
• Partner with Legal/Trade Compliance to identify risks, support training, and strengthen the trade compliance program.
• Operate within the Blommer core values and competencies

Note:

The employer reserves the right to change or assign other duties to this position

• General office environment with majority of time using computer

• Maintain compliance with all company policies, procedures and code of conduct
• Comply with workplace uniform requirements and safety gear, when on the plant floor v. office

• Accountability & Ownership – Takes responsibility for import compliance, broker management, issue resolution, and ensuring accurate, audit-ready customs documentation.
• Attention to Detail – Maintains a high level of accuracy in classifications, customs filings, trade program documentation, reporting, and import data management.
• Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement – Identifies root causes of clearance delays, compliance risks, and data discrepancies, then implements sustainable process improvements.
• Collaboration & Communication – Builds effective partnerships with Legal, Logistics, Procurement, Finance, Operations, R&D, and customs brokers to ensure compliant and efficient import operations.
• Learning Agility & Business Acumen – Adapts to changing customs regulations, trade programs, and business needs while applying compliance requirements in a practical, business-focused manner.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in import operations, with demonstrated exposure to: customs clearance processes and regulatory compliance requirements
• Working knowledge of U.S. customs regulations (19 CFR) and/or Canadian customs requirements and CBSA processes
• Hands‑on familiarity with CBP ACE and/or Canada’s CARM platform
• Strong attention to detail and comfort working with large data sets
• Desire to learn and grow in trade compliance and supply chain
• SAP or similar ERP system experience
• Experience with food/agricultural imports (namely, dairy‑regulated…