Customs Brokerage Supervisor

Position OverviewA 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 PMLocation: Des Plaines, IllinoisKey ResponsibilitiesCustomer Service and Team LeadershipDeliver 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 DocumentationReview 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 ManagementEstablish 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 QualificationsEducation and ExperienceHigh 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 RegulationsRegulatory recordkeeping requirementsSkills and CompetenciesIntermediate 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 BenefitsThe organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:Paid Time Off (PTO)401(k) retirement planMedical insuranceEmployee discount programsGym membership discountsTravel and retail discountsPet insurance