Customs Brokerage Manager (LAX)

IBC | Solutions for Smarter Logistics; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

IBC | Solutions for Smarter Logistics is seeking a Customs Brokerage Manager in Los Angeles to lead a high-volume e-commerce clearance operation. You will oversee entries, ensure CBP compliance, and drive performance across express and general cargo while guiding a team of skilled professionals.

The role requires strong regulatory knowledge, leadership abilities, and collaboration with carriers, customs officials, and internal stakeholders to optimize service and costs.

Qualifications

• 4+ years in a customs brokerage role with high-volume e-commerce experience
• 2+ years in a supervisory management role within a brokerage or logistics environment
• Knowledge of CBP regulations, tariffs, and trade compliance for e-commerce
• Proficiency with customs management software including ABI, Editrade, NetChb, and nominations
• Experience with POA validation procedures and airfreight customs clearance (ORD preferred)
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to perform under pressure and meet tight deadlines

Responsibilities

• Oversee high-volume e-commerce clearance processing
• Ensure CBP compliance and maintain records
• Negotiate with carriers and manage vendors to optimize service and costs
• Lead and develop department staff
• Serve as liaison with customs officials and internal teams to resolve issues
• Monitor and manage departmental performance and costs
• Support cross-functional departments with complex customs procedures
• Participate in strategic corporate logistics projects to improve efficiency

Skills

Regulatory knowledge

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Deadline-driven

Tools

ABI functionality

Editrade

NetChb

Nominations

Job description

This manager directs and scales the customs brokerage department, focusing on IBC's core competencies: rapid e-commerce clearances, efficient handling of high-volume express shipments, and maintaining superior compliance and operational standards. This role ensures timely clearance and delivery for clients in dynamic industries, providing expert guidance and streamlined processes.

Duties and responsibilities:

• High-Volume E-commerce Clearance: Oversee the preparation and processing of informal and formal entries, including specific expertise in Section 321 and Type 86 clearance for high-volume, low-value e-commerce imports (although they are suspended, they are helpful for integrations with ET11 Informal consolidations).
• Compliance and Regulation: Ensure full departmental compliance with all U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, maintaining a robust recordkeeping system and CTPAT certification.
• Strategic Vendor and Carrier Management: Conduct business reviews and rate negotiations with key carriers and logistics partners to optimize service and costs.
• Operational Excellence: Balance workloads and manage resources across functions, ensuring efficient processing of both express and general cargo.
• International Communication: Serve as a primary liaison with regional customs officials, global logistics managers, and customer service teams to proactively resolve issues and maintain strong relationships.
• Performance and Cost Management: Monitor freight costs and departmental performance using formal metrics, identifying and implementing cost-saving initiatives.
• Stakeholder Support: Provide specialized support to internal customer service, operations, and finance teams regarding complex customs procedures and challenges.
• Process Improvement: Participate in strategic corporate logistics projects, leveraging expertise in customs to improve overall efficiency.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Manage and provide direct oversight for department staff.
• Hire, train, and conduct performance management for entry writers and other team members.
• Conduct regular team meetings to ensure alignment and address issues.

Qualifications:

• Experienced: 4+ years in a customs brokerage role with specific experience in high-volume e-commerce and express clearance, including informal/formal entries and ACE Border Crossings.
• Skilled: 2+ years in a supervisory management role within a brokerage or logistics environment.

Knowledgeable:

• Deep understanding of CBP regulations, tariffs, and trade compliance, particularly for the e-commerce sector.
• Proficiency with customs management software, including ABI functionality, Editrade, NetChb, and nominations.
• Experience with POA validation procedures and airfreight customs clearance (ORD preferred).
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to perform under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Proficient:

Fluent in English (written and oral) and proficient with Microsoft Office Suite.