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Import Operations Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Import Manager's role will oversee the Freight Forwarding import operations business. The successful candidate will have knowledge of all aspects of Freight Forwarding Import Operations and will ...

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This role handles customer service and administrative tasks related to import operations -- including data entry, document processing, and coordinating with vendors to ensure smooth customs clearance.

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LCL Import Operations Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

LCL Import Operations Coordinator Department: Operations Employment Type: Full Time Location: Chicago, IL Reporting To: George Bunea Compensation: $23.00 - $27.00 / hour Description As a subsidiary ...

Import Trade Operations Specialist

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

Import Trade Operations Specialist

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

Air Import Agent

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm The Import Specialist - Air supports international air import operations by coordinating shipment activities from arrival through final delivery. They assist with documentation ...

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Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm The Import Specialist - Air supports international air import operations by coordinating shipment activities from arrival through final delivery. They assist with documentation ...

Mon - Fri 8am - 5pm The Import Specialist - Air supports international air import operations by coordinating shipment activities from arrival through final delivery. They assist with documentation ...

Import Trade Operations Specialist

Elgin, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

Air & Sea Import Operation

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform other duties as assigned by manager What we offer If you are an experienced air and sea import operations professional who enjoys delivering exceptional customer service, we encourage you to ...

Import Trade Operations Lead

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$110K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

Import Trade Operations Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

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Showing results 1-20

Import Operations information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$23

$47

How much do import operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for import operations in Illinois is $23.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $26.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an import operations specialist?

To thrive as an Import Operations Specialist, you need a thorough understanding of international trade regulations, logistics procedures, and documentation, often supported by a degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field. Familiarity with customs management software, freight tracking systems, and compliance certifications such as CITT or FIATA is highly valuable. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with vendors and regulatory authorities set top performers apart. These abilities ensure smooth and compliant import processes, minimizing delays and optimizing the supply chain.

What are import operations?

Import operations involve managing the process of bringing goods into a country from abroad, including tasks such as coordinating shipments, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and handling documentation. Import operations professionals often work with logistics software and require knowledge of international trade laws and procedures.

What is the difference between Import Operations vs Customs Compliance Specialist?

AspectImport OperationsCustoms Compliance Specialist
Required CredentialsLogistics certifications, import/export knowledgeCustoms regulations, compliance certifications
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, shipping ports, logistics firmsCustoms offices, compliance departments
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, import/export firmsCustoms agencies, multinational corporations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding import processesEnsuring legal compliance in imports

Import Operations focus on managing the overall import process, including coordination with carriers and documentation. Customs Compliance Specialists concentrate on adhering to customs laws and regulations. Both roles are essential in international trade but differ in their primary responsibilities and expertise areas.

What are some common challenges faced in an import operations role, and how can they be managed effectively?

One of the main challenges in Import Operations is navigating complex international regulations and ensuring timely customs clearance. Delays can occur due to incomplete documentation, changing tariffs, or unforeseen inspections, which require strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Effective communication with customs brokers, carriers, and internal teams is essential to resolve issues quickly and keep shipments on schedule. Staying updated on regulatory changes and building positive relationships with partners can help minimize disruptions and improve overall efficiency.

What are the most commonly searched types of Import Operations jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Import Operations jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Import Operations jobs in Illinois?

For Import Operations jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Import Operations jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Import Operations jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Import Operations job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,683 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Import Operations

NNR Global Logistics USA Inc.

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Import Operations is responsible for performing break bulk operations and import customer service duties to process the documentation necessary for import freight to clear US Customs and delivered to the final consignee in a timely and safe manner in accordance with governmental regulations.

Duties & Functions

Essential:

· Coordinates with Agents and partners and ensure that all import shipments are properly documented.

· Sort, process and distribute all documentation for incoming consolidations and direct shipments.

· Study various modes of transportation to ascertain the most efficient and timely movement of freight for forwarding and delivery.

· Make I/T entries for on-forwarding of shipments to all destinations and arrange transportation to said destination.

· Ensure that all documents required by U.S. Customs regulations are correct and complete to include customer compliance under the supervision of the designated
Customs Brokers.

· Negotiate with trucking companies and airlines to obtain rates and guarantee of delivery.

· Arrange local deliveries for NNR customers after customs clearance when appropriate.

· Issue invoices to customers.

· Set up all necessary arrangements indicated on Advance Information for the smooth movement of import freight.

· Provide quotations in response to customers and internal requests including overseas partners.

· Perform customer service duties with correspondence to customers and overseas partners, e-mails fax, etc.

· Assist in the implementation of customer service policies and procedures to ensure that the service that is being provided is of the appropriate standard and level.

· Perform other duties as requested by management.

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS

Education & Experience:

· Minimum requirement High School diploma or GED.

· Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.

· Ability to use basic math skills to calculate duties and freight, storage and other charges.

· Solid understanding of the international forwarding business.

Physical requirements:

· Flexible and long hours sometimes required.

· Medium work - Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, frequently and/or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Overnight travel may be required.

· Overnight travel may be required.