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Customs Brokerage Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Customs Brokerage Entry Agent is responsible for working in our Customs Brokerage Department to ... Associate's Degree (A.A.) from a two-year college or equivalent combination of education and work ...

The Customs Brokerage Entry Agent is responsible for working in our Customs Brokerage Department to ... Associate's Degree (A.A.) from a two-year college or equivalent combination of education and work ...

... associate duty rate, and calculating the entered value using t/b and FedEx systems. Contact ... MUST HAVE CUSTOMS BROKERAGE EXPERIENCE. Pay Transparency: This compensation range is provided as a ...

Customs Brokerage Import II

Des Plaines, IL ยท On-site

$21.66 - $27.08/hr

Customs and Border protection and other government agencies to ensure service commitments are ... High School Diploma or GED, Associates Degree preferred; Minimum one to three years related ...

Associate Customs Manager, Americas

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$124K - $156K/yr

About the Role The Associate Manager, Customs & Trade Compliance supports customs and trade ... Working closely with internal stakeholders, customs brokers, logistics providers, suppliers, and ...

New

Customs Specialist

Rolling Meadows, IL ยท On-site

$25.38 - $40.21/hr

Partner with customs brokers, transportation providers, and internal teams to ensure seamless ... Associate or bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in related field

Posted today

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Customs Brokerage Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.4K

$60.8K

$87.6K

How much do customs brokerage associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for customs brokerage associate in Chicago, IL is $60,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,300.00 and $75,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a customs brokerage associate?

Customs Brokerage Associates are professionals who help businesses and individuals navigate the process of importing and exporting goods across international borders. Their responsibilities include preparing and submitting documentation required by customs authorities, ensuring compliance with all regulations, and coordinating the release and delivery of shipments. They often work closely with customs officials, freight forwarders, and clients to resolve issues and facilitate the smooth movement of goods. Strong attention to detail and knowledge of international trade laws are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a customs brokerage associate?

To thrive as a Customs Brokerage Associate, you need a strong understanding of customs regulations, import/export procedures, and documentation, supported by at least a high school diploma or relevant associate degree. Familiarity with customs management systems, Harmonized Tariff Schedules, and certifications such as Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) are highly valued. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and effective communication enable smooth coordination between clients, carriers, and government agencies. These competencies ensure compliance, prevent costly delays, and facilitate efficient international trade operations.

What are some common challenges faced by customs brokerage associates and how can they be managed?

Customs Brokerage Associates often face challenges such as tight deadlines for customs clearance, complex regulatory requirements, and frequent changes in international trade laws. Managing these challenges typically involves staying updated on customs regulations, maintaining strong attention to detail, and using specialized software to track shipments efficiently. Working closely with clients, carriers, and government agencies helps ensure compliance and timely processing of documentation, making communication and adaptability key aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Customs Brokerage Associate vs Customs Compliance Specialist?

AspectCustoms Brokerage AssociateCustoms Compliance Specialist
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications like C-TPAT or customs brokerage licensesCertifications such as C-TPAT, customs compliance certifications, or similar
Work EnvironmentFrequent interaction with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and logistics teamsFocus on regulatory compliance, documentation review, and policy adherence
Employer & Industry UsageLogistics companies, freight forwarders, import/export firmsImport/export companies, customs consulting firms, government agencies

The Customs Brokerage Associate primarily handles documentation, communication, and coordination related to customs clearance. In contrast, the Customs Compliance Specialist focuses on ensuring adherence to customs laws and regulations. Both roles require knowledge of customs procedures, but the associate is more operational, while the compliance specialist emphasizes regulatory adherence and policy enforcement.

How much do customs brokerage associates make?

Customs brokerage associates typically earn between $35,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced associates with specialized knowledge can earn higher salaries, often working with customs regulations and import/export documentation.

Is a customs brokerage associate a good career?

A customs brokerage associate is a role that involves processing and clearing shipments through customs, requiring knowledge of import/export regulations and attention to detail. It can be a stable career with opportunities for advancement, especially with certifications like the Certified Customs Specialist, and often involves working in logistics or supply chain environments. The job typically offers regular hours and the potential for growth in the trade and logistics industry.

Is it hard to become a customs brokerage associate?

Becoming a customs brokerage associate typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, knowledge of customs regulations, and sometimes certification such as the Customs Broker License or related training. The role involves understanding import/export procedures, working with customs documentation, and using specialized software, but it generally does not require extensive prior experience, making it accessible with proper training and certification.

What are the most commonly searched types of Customs Brokerage jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Customs Brokerage jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Customs Brokerage Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Customs Brokerage Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Customs Brokerage Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Customs Brokerage Associate job openings:

Customs Brokerage Entry Agent

Hellmann

Norridge, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

About Us

Ready to rock the future with us? At Hellmann we put our people at the heart of everything we do, because for us, relationship matters. Joining us does not just mean becoming part of a global company. It is an invitation to shape the future of the logistics industry together with us. Our Hellmann culture is based on our four values: Caring, Entrepreneurial, Forward-Thinking and Reliable. These values resonate with yours? Then become part of our FAMILY that consists of around 10.000 employees in more than 200 locations worldwide.
For the better. Together.

.This position has an hourly range of USD 32.00 to USD 35.00. In addition to this base compensation, you'll benefit from our competitive health and welfare programs, a 401(k) retirement savings plan, opportunities for tuition assistance, and incentive compensation for eligible positions. Salary determination considers your skills, experience, job location, internal pay equity and job architecture. Hellmann Worldwide Logistics regularly reviews our pay ranges against industry standards to ensure fairness.
The Customs Brokerage Entry Agent is responsible for working in our Customs Brokerage Department to process import shipments and customs brokerage for our customers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs all functions required by the brokerage department to service the client

  • Performs functions including troubleshooting and problem-solving to provide exceptional customer service

  • Performs daily follow up on all open issues with the client, carrier, forwarder, CBP, or PGA to resolve any delays in entry processing

  • Manages all aspects of the entry process from receipt of documents or data to delivery, billing and scanning.

  • Audits commercial documents for accuracy, and verifies description, value, term of sale, country of origin, classification, and all areas required by CBP and any and all PGA's

  • Enters all required data accurately into Hellmann's brokerage system to complete the entry and achieve full release with CBP and PGA.

  • Coordinates with the origin station, supplier or third party to process the Importer Security Filing (ISF) on behalf the importer.

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position does not supervise any direct reports.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • Associate's Degree (A.A.) from a two-year college or equivalent combination of education and work experience will be considered in lieu of educational requirement

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • One to three years of previous experience in freight forwarding industry preferred

  • Completion of any industry related course is an asset

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ATTRIBUTES

  • Organization skills

  • Time management and prioritization

  • Customer-focused

  • Adaptable / flexible to high-pressured environment

  • Interpersonal skills

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Email, and Internet

  • Proficient in world geography, shipping documentation, and Incoterms preferred

  • Proficient written and verbal communication skills in English

  • Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as freight rates, discounts, and other percentages

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is:

  • Frequently required to stand, and walk

  • Regularly required to sit for extended periods

  • Regularly uses arms to reach, hands and fingers for computer and phone use

  • Speaking clearly and listening for heavy phone contact

  • Requires close-up and computer screen distance vision ability

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Inclusion and social diversity are firmly anchored values in our corporate culture. Regardless of gender, age, any disabilities, religion, ethnic origin or sexual identity: We are looking forward to meeting you!

If you are excited by this fantastic opportunity and have what it takes, then click APPLY!