Import Specialist at Rogers & Brown

Houston, Texas, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

10 Mar, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

10 Dec, 25

Experience

2 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Customs Documentation, Customs Clearance, Freight Forwarding, Compliance Assurance, Tariff Classification, Client Communication, Problem Solving, Invoicing, Vendor Relations, Reporting, Team Collaboration, Development, Attention to Detail, Software Proficiency, Communication Skills, Customer Service

Industry

Logistics;Transportation;Supply Chain and Storage

Description

Description POSITION OVERVIEW As an Import Specialist, you will be a key member of our customs brokerage team, responsible for overseeing the elaborate process of importing goods on behalf of our clients. Your role will encompass a range of duties, from document preparation and customs clearance to ensuring compliance with international trade regulations. This position requires a comprehensive understanding of custom regulations and freight forwarding services, a strong grasp of customs compliance, and the ability to provide exceptional customer service with minimal supervision. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Customs Documentation: Review and process import documentation, including commercial invoices, bills of lading, packing lists, and certificates of origin, ensuring accuracy and compliance with customs regulations. 2. Customs Clearance: Manage the customs clearance process for imported goods, including tariff classifications and coordination with customs authorities. 3. Freight Forwarding: Manage the freight forwarding process of imported goods including arranging overseas transportation and bookings with our international partners. 4. Compliance Assurance: Stay up to date with evolving customs regulations, trade agreements, and tariff schedules to ensure compliance with international trade laws and regulations. 5. Tariff Classification: Assign, as needed, the appropriate Harmonized System (HS) tariff codes for imported products, minimizing duty liabilities for clients. 6. Client Communication: Act as the primary point of contact for assigned clients, addressing inquiries, providing status updates, and delivering exceptional customer service. 7. Problem Solving: Proactively identify and resolve import-related issues, such as customs delays, documentation discrepancies, or transportation challenges. 8. Invoicing: Responsible for properly billing clients and vetting payments to vendors according to company policy. 9. Vendor Relations: Collaborate with vendors, carriers, and government agencies to facilitate the import process, resolve issues, and ensure efficient cargo movement. 10. Reporting: Generate and maintain import-related shipment notes for the client. 11. Team Collaboration: Work closely with customs brokers, import representatives, and other team members to streamline import operations and deliver high-quality service to clients. 12. Development: Contribute to knowledge sharing by training team members and developing, maintaining, and improving Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, accuracy, and compliance. Requirements QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS Education: High school diploma or equivalent; a bachelor's degree in a related field is a plus. Import Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of practical experience in import operations, preferably within a customs brokerage or a related industry. Experience should encompass various aspects of the import process, including documentation, customs clearance, and compliance. Customs Compliance Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of customs regulations, including import classifications, valuation methods, and documentation requirements. Familiarity with relevant government agencies and their regulations is essential. Freight Forwarding Knowledge: Ability to understand Incoterms and international routing of freight. Tariff Classification Expertise: Understanding of Harmonized System (HS) tariff codes for a wide range of imported products. Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with clients, customs authorities, vendors, and other stakeholders. Fluency in multiple languages can be advantageous. Customer Service: Strong customer service orientation, with the ability to provide exceptional service to clients, address inquiries, and resolve import-related issues promptly. Problem-Solving Abilities: Effective problem-solving skills to identify and resolve import-related challenges, such as customs delays, documentation discrepancies, or transportation issues. Attention to Detail: A keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy in import documentation and compliance with customs regulations. Software Proficiency: Proficiency in using computer software, including customs clearance software, and the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook). CargoWise experience is a plus. Regulatory Certifications: Possession of relevant certifications, such as Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or similar credentials, can demonstrate expertise and commitment to professional development. Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues in customs brokerage, logistics, and other departments to ensure smooth import operations. Time Management: Strong organizational and time management skills to manage multiple import shipments simultaneously and meet strict 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. Customs Broker License: While not always required for an Import Specialist role, having a customs broker license can be an advantage. Continual Learning: Willingness to stay updated on industry trends, changes in customs regulations, and emerging technologies or tools that can enhance import operations efficiency.

Responsibilities

The Import Specialist will manage the customs documentation and clearance process for imported goods, ensuring compliance with international trade regulations. They will also act as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing inquiries and resolving import-related issues.