Customs Operations Lead

About Us

Mercantile Logistics & International Trade, Inc. is a specialized U.S. Customs brokerage firm focused on attentive, personalized service to importers across various scales. We emphasize long-term partnerships through precision, clear communication, and outstanding client service.

Position Overview

The Customs Operations Lead manages the daily brokerage operations, guiding the processing of Customs entries, organizing workflows, liaising with clients, and training newcomers in the field. This role suits a seasoned Customs expert eager to take operational ownership, tackle commonplace Customs technicalities, and mentor the next generation.

Training on specific software tools will be provided. The Licensed Customs Broker will continue to handle complex compliance, tariff disputes, and specialized trade services.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and file Customs entries via ABI systems.
• Handle ISFs, in-bond shipments, and routine corrections after entry.
• Examine commercial documentation including invoices and bills of lading.
• Confirm entries for accuracy and completeness.
• Track daily shipments to ensure timely filings.
• Address routine entry concerns with clients, carriers, and enforcement agencies.
• Escalate complex compliance or legal issues to the Licensed Customs Broker.
• Be the primary contact for routine brokerage operations communication.
• Clearly inform clients about shipment statuses and required paperwork.
• Foster strong client relationships through proactive communication.
• Coordinate retrieval of missing documentation and clarify routine entry inquiries.
• Mentor interns and junior entry writers.
• Instruct team members on researching Customs regulations, tariff classifications, rulings, and government requirements using reliable sources.
• Review junior staff outputs and offer constructive critiques.
• Promote independent problem-solving and continuous education.
• Contribute to a collaborative and professional team atmosphere.
• Recommend workflow enhancements and assist in crafting standard operating procedures.
• Support the development and maintenance of training resources.
• Identify ways to boost efficiency while complying with regulations.

Qualifications

• At least 3 to 5 years of recent experience in U.S. Customs entry preparation.
• Proficient knowledge of ACE and ABI systems.
• Deep understanding of U.S. Customs entry processes.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage time effectively.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Adept at prioritizing multiple shipments meeting deadlines consistently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Capability to work autonomously in a remote setting.
• Stable internet and a dedicated home workspace required.

Preferred Experience

• Familiarity with FDA, USDA, EPA, CPSC regulations.
• Knowledge of Lacey Act and PGA filing procedures.
• Handling Inbound Transit shipments.
• Experience mentoring or supervising entry writers.
• Creating procedural or training documentation.

Candidate Profile

• Self-driven with a strong sense of responsibility.
• Dependable and motivated to support team growth.
• Enjoys fostering others’ success through mentorship.
• Resourceful in researching unfamiliar topics before seeking help.
• Professional and clear communication with all stakeholders.
• Receptive to feedback and committed to improvement.
• Consistently focused on accuracy, regulatory compliance, and client care.
• Seeks continual process enhancements and efficiency gains.

What We Offer

• This role is fully remote.
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate workload variations.
• Competitive hourly pay based on experience.
• Paid training on relevant software and operational processes.
• Opportunity to advance into key leadership roles within our expanding brokerage.
• A supportive team culture that values initiative and innovative ideas.

Application Instructions

Please submit a résumé along with:

• A brief overview of your Customs brokerage experience.
• The length of your Customs entry-writing experience.
• The ABI platforms you have operated.
• Details of any training or mentoring you have provided (if relevant).
• Your expected hourly pay rate.