Compliance Operations Manager – Customs Brokerage

Compliance Operations Manager – Customs BrokerageLocation: Arlington Heights, ILWork Arrangement: Hybrid (3 Days In Office / 2 Days Remote)Employment Type: Direct Hire | Full-TimeSchedule: Monday – Friday | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PMWork Week: 35 HoursCompensation: $85,000 – $100,000 annuallyPosition OverviewWheeler Staffing Partners is seeking an experienced Compliance Operations Manager – Customs Brokerage for a direct hire opportunity in Arlington Heights, IL. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing customs brokerage operations, import compliance processes, customs documentation, and team management within a fast-paced international logistics environment.The ideal candidate will have strong experience with U.S. Customs regulations, HTS classification, import operations, PGA requirements, customs entry processing, and client relationship management. Candidates with prior leadership experience within customs brokerage or international trade operations are strongly encouraged to apply.Key ResponsibilitiesCustoms Compliance & Brokerage OperationsEnsure all import shipments comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations and applicable Partner Government Agency (PGA) requirementsOversee customs entry preparation, customs documentation review, and timely electronic submission of import entriesAssist clients with HTS classification guidance and import compliance supportManage customs holds, exams, protests, PSCs, and other customs-related escalationsConduct customs entry audits and implement corrective actions when necessaryMaintain knowledge of evolving customs regulations, tariffs, and import compliance requirementsEnsure accurate record retention and compliance documentation proceduresLeadership & Team ManagementLead and manage a customs brokerage operations team responsible for import processing and customs documentationMonitor team productivity, accuracy, service levels, and compliance performanceConduct employee coaching, performance reviews, goal setting, and staff development initiativesApprove PTO requests and bi-weekly timesheets for direct reportsParticipate in interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and training activitiesSupport cross-training initiatives across operational teams to improve coverage and workflow efficiencyClient Communication & Operational SupportCommunicate with clients regarding tariff updates, regulatory changes, customs requirements, and shipment status updatesEnsure timely duty payments and review customs statements to avoid penalties and delaysReview and approve customs-related payments through approved payment systemsProvide customers with ACH duty withdrawal notifications and customs billing statementsSupport billing operations and coordinate with accounting teams to resolve discrepanciesProcess Improvement & Compliance InitiativesIdentify workflow improvement opportunities and operational efficiencies within customs processesDevelop and maintain SOPs, client profiles, and compliance documentation proceduresLead ongoing customs compliance training and professional development initiatives for staffSupport departmental reporting, operational planning, and compliance projectsRequired QualificationsEducationHigh School Diploma or GED requiredAssociate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, International Trade, Logistics, or related field preferredExperience5–7+ years of experience in customs brokerage, import compliance, freight forwarding, or international logistics2–3+ years of leadership or supervisory experienceStrong knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations, HTS classification, import documentation, and PGA requirementsExperience using CargoWise or similar customs brokerage softwareProficiency with Microsoft Office SuitePreferred QualificationsU.S. Customs Broker License preferredCertified Customs Specialist (CCS) certification preferredExperience managing customs brokerage teams and import operations workflowsRequired SkillsStrong leadership and team development abilitiesExcellent communication and client relationship management skillsStrong organizational and time-management capabilitiesAbility to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environmentStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsCustomer-focused mindset with operational leadership experienceTravelOccasional travel may be requiredWhy Work With Wheeler Staffing Partners?Wheeler Staffing Partners connects experienced professionals with leading organizations across logistics, supply chain, operations, finance, healthcare, engineering, IT, and professional services. Our team is committed to delivering a personalized recruiting experience and long-term career opportunities for top talent nationwide.