Director of Import Compliance - Licensed Customs Broker - CHI

Edward J Zarach & Associates; Bensenville (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with company match

Medical, Vision, Dental, and Life/ADD

Flexible Schedule

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Career Growth Opportunities

Job summary

Edward J. Zarach & Associates, Inc. dba Zarach Logistics in the Chicago area is seeking a licensed U.S. Customs Broker to direct the Import Compliance program. The role leads the customs brokerage department, ensures CBP compliance, and partners with sales to deliver compliant, efficient service.

You will oversee documentation, provide guidance on tariff strategies, and mentor staff while driving process improvements across the team to minimize risk.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent work experience.
• Must hold a U.S. Customs Broker License.
• 5+ years in a customs brokerage role; 2+ years in a leadership role.
• Deep knowledge of U.S. import/export regs, HTS codes, and trade compliance.

Responsibilities

• Manage the customs brokerage department, processes, systems, and compliance.
• Oversee all import documentation and CBP compliance.
• Serve as main contact for customs inquiries and guidance on duty strategies.
• Hire, train, and mentor customs staff.
• Provide training to sales on compliance and tariff classifications.
• Track KPIs and stay current on trade laws to reduce risk.

Skills

Communication

Negotiation

Organizational skills

Problem solving

MS Office

Tariff classifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Director of Import Compliance - Licensed Customs Broker - CHI

10 - IL FullTime Bensenville, IL, US

30+ days ago Requisition ID: 1022

Salary Range: $100,000.00 To $125,000.00 Annually

Director of Import Compliance - Licensed Customs Broker - CHICAGO

Chicago, IL Area

Edward J Zarach & Associates, Inc., dba Zarach Logistics located in Bensenville, Illinois near Chicago, O’Hare airport is hiring to fill a full-time position as a License Customs Broker. We are looking for a talented and driven Licensed Customs Broker who is highly experienced in the transportation and logistics industry, specifically within a Customs Brokerage firm. This individual will play a critical role in launching and leading our Customs Brokerage Department, taking full ownership of compliance, client service, and operational execution. The ideal candidate is a 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. Our work environment includes:

• Casual work attire
• Relaxed atmosphere
• On-the-job training
• Growth opportunities

Key Responsibilities and Competencies:

• 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.
• 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.
• Monitor performance, track KPIs, and stay current on trade laws and regulations to improve processes and reduce risk.

Client Relationship Management:

• Serve as the primary point of contact as necessary clients to ensure satisfaction and proactive service delivery related to customs duty and import compliance
• Provide support and guidance to clients (internal and external) regarding customs regulations, processes, and classifications
• Collaborate with the Sales team to promote Zarach Logistics’ services to existing and potential clients.
• Provide subject matter expertise to support client onboarding and retention efforts.
• Develop a client base focused on providing customs brokerage services.

Reporting & Compliance:

• Maintain organized and accurate records.
• Generate reports for internal tracking of filings, refunds, and pending claims.
• Support internal and external audits as needed.

Additional Duties:

• Perform other duties as assigned by Director of Operations and the leadership team.

Skills and Educational 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.

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

Statement of non-inclusivity:

These job descriptions are not to be construed as a complete listing of the duties and responsibilities that may be given to any employee. The duties and responsibilities outlined in this position may be added to or changed when deemed appropriate and necessary by the person who is managerially responsible for this position. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an 'at-will' relationship.

Working conditions:

Employees work on site at the Zarach Logistics offices located in Bensenville, IL 60106. There may be instances where you may work beyond normal operating hours or need to work from home. There may be instances where you travel to client locations or other Zarach Logistics locations.

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 his 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.

Edward J. Zarach & Associates, Inc. dba Zarach Logistics, is 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.

Starting salary will be based on current experience.

Job Type: Full-time

What We Offer:

• 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)
• Great work life balance and friendly work atmosphere
• Career Growth Opportunities in a Growing Company

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

Note:

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform any other job-related duties requested by anyone authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, and abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an 'at-will' relationship.