Senior Customs Entry Writer (Foreign Trade Zone) Specialist

DP World; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

DP World is seeking a Customs Entry Writer – FTZ Specialist in Los Angeles. In this role, you'll prepare and manage U.S. Customs entries focusing on compliance with trade laws and regulations. The position demands strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

The ideal candidate has 3–5 years of customs brokerage experience and proficiency in brokerage systems like CargoWise. A positive attitude and excellent customer service skills are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3–5 years of customs brokerage experience, preferably with FTZ operations.
• CCS certification or U.S. Customs Broker License is a plus.
• Proficiency with brokerage systems like CargoWise.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and submit U.S. Customs entries in compliance with CBP regulations.
• Classify goods using HTS tariff system and determine duties.
• Communicate with clients to obtain import data and advise on compliance.

Skills

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Customer service skills

Problem-solving abilities

Organizational skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Degree in International Trade, Supply Chain, or Business

Tools

CargoWise

ABI

ACE

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Position Overview

A Customs Entry Writer – FTZ Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely preparation, submission, and management of U.S. Customs entries, with a primary focus on Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) entries. This role ensures full compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, FTZ requirements under 19 CFR Part 146, and all applicable trade laws. The position requires advanced knowledge of import entry processes, classification, valuation, and FTZ admission and entry procedures. Additionally, the role prepares, submits, and maintains import documentation to ensure goods are accurately and efficiently cleared through U.S. Customs and Partner Government Agencies (PGAs). The role requires strong compliance knowledge, attention to detail, and effective coordination across clients, carriers, freight forwarders, and government entities. This is a fast‑paced environment that requires a strong sense of urgency, the ability to manage tight deadlines, a positive "can do" attitude, and excellent customer service skills.

Key Accountabilities

• Prepare and submit U.S. Customs entries (Consumption, Warehouse, FTZ Weekly Entry, etc.) in compliance with CBP regulations.
• Accurately classify goods using the HTS tariff system and determine required duties, taxes, and fees.
• Submit customs entries via ABI/ACE in compliance with CBP and PGA requirements.
• Calculate duties, arrange payments, and monitor ACH or duty billing statements.
• Review invoices, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and supporting import documentation.
• Verify commodity descriptions, country of origin, valuation, and regulatory admissibility.
• Maintain accurate record‑keeping for compliance and audit purposes.
• Stay current on trade agreements, regulation changes, and customs procedural updates.
• Communicate with clients to obtain import data and advise on classifications, restrictions, and compliance requirements.
• Coordinate with carriers, forwarders, CBP officers, and PGAs to resolve holds, exams, and documentation issues.
• Handle post‑entry tasks such as corrections, PSCs, protests, and refunds where applicable.
• Support internal audits.
• Ensure timely billing of entry‑related services.
• Generate timely billing for entry‑related services.

Qualifications, Experience and Skills

• High school diploma or GED required; degree in International Trade, Supply Chain, or Business preferred.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of customs brokerage experience, with significant exposure to FTZ operations.
• CCS certification or U.S. Customs Broker License a plus.
• Proficiency with brokerage systems (CargoWise, ACE, ABI).
• Strong knowledge of CBP regulations, HTS classification, valuation, Incoterms, and PGA requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• High attention to detail and accuracy under tight deadlines.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to solve problems and manage exceptions in a time‑sensitive environment.
• Solid organizational skills and ability to manage multiple files simultaneously.
• Shows eagerness to grow knowledge of customs regulations, systems, and procedures; quickly adapts to new information and feedback.
• Collaborates well with colleagues, communicates effectively, and supports shared goals in a fast‑moving operational environment.
• Takes initiative, manages tasks independently, and maintains productivity without needing close supervision.
• Desire to learn — eager to grow knowledge and adapt quickly.
• Strong team player — collaborates well and supports shared goals.
• Effective problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks.

Important Note

This position does not offer sponsorship for employment visas. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship now or in the future.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

DP World is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO). We strongly believe that employing a diverse workforce is central to our success and we make recruiting decisions based on your experience and skills. We welcome applications from all members of society irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or belief.