Trade Compliance Specialist / Licensed Customs Broker

Salary: $125,000–$160,000 / Yearly DOE

Location: Chicago, IL

We're hiring a Trade Compliance Specialist / Licensed Customs Broker to own import documentation, HTS classification, and regulatory compliance across our import operations. This role is bringing

brokerage work in-house, so you'll have end-to-end ownership of how cargo clears U.S. Customs — not just executing, but designing the workflow.

You'll be the primary point of contact with CBP and partner government agencies, advise internal teams on trade regulations, and keep cargo moving for clients with tight timelines.

What you'll do

- Prepare, review, and submit import documentation (invoices, packing lists, entry summaries) with full compliance to CBP requirements

- Classify goods under the HTS, calculate duties, taxes, and fees

- Liaise with CBP and PGAs (FDA, USDA, FWS, etc.) to resolve clearance issues in real time

- Coordinate with freight forwarders, carriers, warehouses, and internal logistics teams

- Advise on trade compliance strategy — Section 301, IEEPA, USMCA, FTZ, drawback opportunities

- Transition brokerage operations in-house: build the process, own the tools (ACE), raise the bar on accuracy

- Maintain audit-ready records across electronic filing systems

- Monitor shipment status and resolve clearance issues proactively

Required

- Active U.S. Customs Broker License (LCB)

- Experience in customs brokerage or corporate trade compliance; strong working knowledge of HTS classification, 19 CFR, and CBP procedures

- Proficiency with ACE and electronic filing platforms

- Strong communication with CBP, clients, and internal teams

- Ability to manage high-volume documentation in a fast-paced environment

Preferred

- Bachelor's in business, logistics, international trade, or related field

- Experience in freight forwarding or multi-modal logistics (ocean, air, rail, OTR)

- Familiarity with Section 301, IEEPA, FTZ, or drawback programs

- Advanced Excel; experience with customs software beyond ACE

- Multilingual a plus

Benefits

- Medical coverage

- 401(k) with employer match

- PTO + paid holidays + floating holidays

If you hold an active LCB and want to build a best-in-class in-house brokerage function from the ground up, apply now.

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Trade Compliance Specialist / Licensed Customs Broker