Licensed Customs Broker - Chicago Illinois

About the role

Zarach Logistics is seeking a full-time Licensed Customs Broker to lead their Customs Brokerage Department. The ideal candidate will manage processes, systems, and compliance standards, oversee import documentation, and provide consultative guidance on trade compliance and duty strategies.

Responsibilities

• Manage the customs brokerage department, including processes, systems, and compliance standards.
• Oversee all import documentation and ensure full compliance with CBP and other regulatory agencies.
• File accurate entries, classify goods using HTS codes.
• Serve as the main point of contact for customs-related inquiries and provide consultative guidance on trade compliance and duty strategies.
• Assist with hiring, training, and mentoring customs staff.
• Provide training and updates to the sales teams on compliance requirements, documentation needs, and tariff classifications to strengthen client relationships and service offering, including writing our internal monthly newsletter.
• Maintain organized and accurate records. Generate reports for internal tracking of filings, refunds, and pending claims. Support internal and external audits as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Director of Operations and the leadership team.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, or a related field preferred; equivalent work experience will be considered.
• Experience: Must hold a valid U.S. Customs Broker License. 5+ years in a customs brokerage position, 2 + years in a leadership or managerial role preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of U.S import/export regulations, HTS classification, tariff codes, and international trade compliance.
• Certified CargoWise Specialist.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build relationships with clients, government agencies and internal stakeholders.
• Highly organized with excellent attention to detail and ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Familiarity with customs compliance software.

Qualifications

• Proactive leader, detail-oriented, and a team player who is passionate about building efficient, compliant customs processes from the ground up and not afraid to get into the weeds with entries.
• Casual work attire, relaxed atmosphere, on-the-job training, growth opportunities.

Skills

• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build relationships with clients, government agencies and internal stakeholders.
• Highly organized with excellent attention to detail and ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Familiarity with customs compliance software.

Benefits

401(k) Retirement Savings with Company Match, Paid time off, Medical, Vision, Dental, and Life/ADD insurance available, Flexible Schedule, Three weeks of Paid Time Off (PTO), Collaborative Team Culture, Great work life balance and friendly work atmosphere, Career Growth Opportunities in a Growing Company, Shift schedule Monday - Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Pay

Starting salary will be based on current experience.

Schedule

Monday - Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

About Us

Zarach Logistics is an International Freight Forwarder and Customs Broker specializing in the fast-paced logistics world. Our expertise in the transportation industry dates back more than 45 years in Customs Brokerage and internation shipping. We believe that providing meaningful work is our mission, which is why the organization has been thriving for over 45 years due to a culture of empowering its team to serve clients and providing our team members with the tools and flexibility to do this well. We invest in leadership and industry relevant education opportunities for our team. We celebrate our team successes in and out of work. We offer a collaborative environment and excellent benefits. If you have integrity, strive to be a good listener, and have a growth mindset, please contact us. Please visit www.zarachlogistics.com for further information about our company.

Statement of non-inclusivity

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran status.

Applicant Attributes

• A well-organized, disciplined, and motivated team member who has the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Able to build relationships with clients, government agencies and internal stakeholders.
• Able to listen and have a growth mindset.