Custom House Brokerage Import / Export Entry Writer FTZ Specialist

Title: Custom House Brokerage Import / Export Entry Writer FTZ Specialist Location: Multiple Locations: Length: 12 Months Hybrid Or Onsite

Reynoldsburg, OH Charleston, SC Saint Paul, MN Fife, WA Fullerton, CA El Paso, TX Charlotte, NC Chicago, IL

The role will remain hybrid, requiring employees to be onsite four days per week, with Fridays designated as work-from-home days.

Job Summary

The Custom House Brokerage Import / Export Entry Writer FTZ Specialist is responsible for the accurate and compliant preparation, submission, and management of U.S. Customs import and export entries, with a strong emphasis on Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) admissions, filings, and compliance. This role requires deep knowledge of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, tariff classification, valuation, PGA requirements, and FTZ program rules to ensure regulatory compliance, mitigate risk, and support efficient cargo movement.

Key Responsibilities

Import / Export Entry Management

Prepare, validate, and transmit import and export entries (CBP Forms 3461, 7501, 7512, AES, etc.) in compliance with CBP regulations
Ensure timely and accurate clearance of cargo while meeting client and operational deadlines
Review commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and other supporting documentation
Determine correct HTS classification, duty rates, valuation, country of origin, and applicability of trade programs (USMCA, GSP, ADD/CVD, etc.)
Coordinate with carriers, terminals, warehouse operators, and internal teams to resolve discrepancies or clearance issues

FTZ (Foreign Trade Zone) Operations Heavy Focus

Prepare and file FTZ admissions, withdrawals (Consumption, Transportation, Export), and zone status changes
Ensure compliance with 19 CFR Part 146 and FTZ Board regulations
Manage weekly and monthly FTZ entries, including reconciliation and duty optimization strategies
Verify zone status (Privileged Foreign, Non Privileged Foreign, Domestic, Zone-Restricted) and ensure proper reporting
Support FTZ recordkeeping, inventory control, admission documentation, and audit readiness
Collaborate with FTZ operators and clients to maintain compliant zone processes

Compliance & Regulatory Oversight

Ensure compliance with CBP, Census, FDA, USDA, EPA, FCC, and other Partner Government Agency (PGA) requirements
Monitor regulatory changes affecting imports, exports, and FTZ programs
Identify and escalate compliance risks, potential penalties, or audit concerns
Support CBP Requests for Information (CF28) and Notices of Action (CF29)
Maintain accurate records in accordance with CBP recordkeeping requirements

Client & Internal Support

Serve as a subject matter expert for FTZ and customs brokerage entry questions
Communicate clearly with clients regarding documentation requirements, clearance status, and compliance impacts
Assist in onboarding new clients, especially those utilizing FTZ programs
Provide guidance on duty savings, compliance strategies, and operational efficiencies
Required Qualifications

Minimum 5+ years of experience as an Import / Export Entry Writer within a licensed Custom House Brokerage
Extensive hands on FTZ experience (admissions, withdrawals, weekly entries, compliance)
Strong working knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations, HTSUS, valuation, and trade compliance
Proficiency with customs brokerage software systems (e.g., Descartes, CargoWise, SAP GTS, ACS/ACE environments)
High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple entries and deadlines
Strong written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) or working toward licensure
Experience supporting CBP audits, reconciliations, or FTZ compliance reviews
Familiarity with duty drawback, reconciliation, and special trade programs
Experience working with high volume or complex FTZ operations

Skills & Competencies

Advanced knowledge of FTZ regulations and compliance requirements
Analytical and problem solving skills
Ability to work independently in fast paced, deadline driven environments
Strong organizational and documentation skills
Collaborative mindset with internal and external stakeholders

Working Conditions

Office or hybrid environment (depending on company policy)
May require extended hours during peak shipping periods