What are the responsibilities and job description for the Customs Brokerage Specialist position at Wheeler Staffing Partners?
Customs Brokerage Specialist
Location: Arlington Heights, IL – Hybrid (3 days in office / 2 days remote)
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Work Schedule: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, 35 hours/week, 1-hour lunch
Salary: $55,000 – $63,000 annually discretionary bonus
Position Overview
Wheeler Staffing Partners is seeking a detail-oriented Customs Brokerage Specialist to manage end-to-end import entry processes for a high-volume organization. The ideal candidate has experience handling air, ocean, rail, and truck imports, strong knowledge of HTS classification, and expertise in CargoWise. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
Data Entry & Documentation
- Enter shipment details into internal systems and customs software (CargoWise required).
- Prepare and file customs entries, ISF filings, and related documentation accurately and on time.
- Ensure all import paperwork is correct, including commercial invoices, bills of lading, and packing lists.
- Maintain client product HTS databases and monitor shipments.
- Communicate with clients, customs brokers, freight forwarders, and government agencies to resolve issues.
- Support billing for completed entries.
Customs Compliance
- Ensure correct Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classifications are applied.
- Maintain compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Participating Government Agencies (PGA) regulations.
- Support audits and departmental reporting.
Communication & Coordination
- Provide clients with updates on shipment status.
- Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth operations.
- Serve as a mentor to less-experienced colleagues and assist management with projects.
Learning & Development
- Participate in training programs to understand customs procedures.
- Willingness to pursue Licensed Customs Broker certification.
Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED required; additional education a plus.
- Minimum 3–5 years of Customs House Brokerage (CHB) experience.
- Strong knowledge of HTS classification and customs/PGA processes.
- Hands-on experience with CargoWise is a hard requirement.
- Experience handling air, ocean, rail, and truck imports.
- Intermediate computer skills, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
- Ability to manage high-volume imports (300–500 entries per month).
- Excellent organization, attention to detail, and multitasking skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication, conflict resolution, and problem-solving abilities.
- Customer-focused and able to provide professional support to internal and external stakeholders.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Detail-oriented and highly accurate in data entry and documentation.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Customer service mindset with clear communication.
- Commitment to ongoing learning and process improvement.
Travel
- This position does not require travel.
Why Work With Wheeler Staffing Partners
At Wheeler Staffing Partners, we connect skilled professionals with exceptional opportunities nationwide. Our team values transparency, partnership, and long-term success—for both our clients and candidates. When you work with us, you gain a partner dedicated to advancing your career with integrity and care.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $55,000.00 - $63,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Ability to Commute:
- Arlington Heights, IL 60005 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Arlington Heights, IL 60005: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $55,000 - $63,000