Import Representative

POSITION OVERVIEW

As an on-site Import Representative, you will be a vital part of our customs brokerage team, responsible for managing and overseeing the importation process and invoicing for our clients. Your role will involve communication with clients, customs authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure the timely and compliant clearance of imported goods. This position requires an understanding of import procedures, excellent customer service skills, and the ability to solve import-related challenges. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Client Relations: Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned clients, building, and maintaining strong relationships. Understand clients' needs and provide tailored import solutions.
• Import Documentation: Review import documentation, including commercial invoices, bills of lading, packing lists, and certificates of origin, ensuring accuracy and compliance with customs regulations.
• Customs Clearance: Oversee the customs clearance process, ensuring that all imported goods are cleared efficiently and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Billing: Responsible for properly billing clients, agents, and vetting payments to vendors according to company policy.
• Compliance Assurance: A general awareness of customs regulations, tariffs, and trade agreements.
• Problem Resolution: Ability to address import-related challenges, such as customs delays, document discrepancies, or issues with transportation providers.
• Communication: Effectively communicate with clients, customs authorities, and third-party service providers to facilitate the import process, resolve issues, and provide status updates.
• Reporting: Generate and maintain import-related shipment notes for the client.
• Team Collaboration: Collaborate with customs brokers, import support specialists, and other team members to ensure the smooth flow of import operations.
• Development: Contribute to knowledge sharing by training team members and developing, maintaining, and improving Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, accuracy, and compliance. 

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent; a bachelor's degree in a related field is a plus.
• Import Experience: Minimum of 1-3 years of experience in import operations, preferably within a customs brokerage or a related industry, demonstrating a solid understanding of import processes, regulations, and documentation requirements.
• Customs Compliance: Understanding of customs compliance as it relates to imports, including import classifications, valuation, and documentation.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with clients, government agencies, carriers, and other stakeholders. Fluency in multiple languages can be an asset.
• Customer Service: Strong customer service orientation, with the ability to provide exceptional service to clients, address their inquiries, and resolve any import-related issues efficiently.
• Problem-Solving: Effective problem-solving skills to handle import-related challenges, such as compliance issues, shipping delays, and documentation discrepancies.
• Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy in import documentation and compliance with import regulations.
• Software Proficiency: Proficiency in using computer software, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), and any specialized import or logistics software. CargoWise experience is a plus. 
• Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues in customs brokerage, logistics, and other departments to ensure smooth import processes.
• Time Management: Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple import shipments simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Ethical Conduct: A commitment to ethical conduct and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in the field of international trade and customs brokerage.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing import regulations and international trade dynamics, staying informed about updates and changes in the industry. 

Why You'll Love Working Here:

•  Hybrid Schedule: Work from home 2 days a week after training 
•  Company-Paid Benefits: Dental insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, life insurance 
•  Extensive Benefits Package: Medical insurance with HRA to reduce your out-of-pocket costs + a long list of voluntary benefits
•  Family Culture: Supportive team environment where your contributions are valued 
•  Opportunities for growth and development in a stable, thriving industry 
•  Meaningful work that supports global trade and keeps supply chains moving 

If you have experience within customs brokerage, freight forwarding, or logistics and are ready to take the next step in your career, we would love to hear from you!