Customs Operations Lead/Entry Writer (Remote)

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Location: Remote (U.S.)

Employment Type: Hourly (Part-Time or Full-Time, based on workload)

Compensation: Competitive hourly rate, based on experience

About us

Mercantile Logistics & International Trade, Inc. is a boutique U.S. Customs brokerage dedicated to providing responsive, personalized service to importers of all sizes. We believe in building long-term client relationships through accuracy, communication, and exceptional customer service.

As our company continues to grow, we are looking for a Customs Operations Lead to oversee our day-to-day brokerage operations while helping develop the next generation of Customs professionals.

Position Summary

The Customs Operations Lead is responsible for ensuring the efficient daily operation of our brokerage. This includes preparing and processing Customs entries, coordinating workflow, communicating with clients, and mentoring interns and entry writers.

This position is ideal for an experienced Customs professional who enjoys taking ownership of operations, solving routine Customs issues, and helping others develop their skills.

Software-specific training will be provided.

The owner and Customs Broker will continue to oversee consulting, complex compliance matters, tariff classification disputes, Foreign Trade Zone operations, drawback, and other specialized trade services.

Key Responsibilities

Customs Operations

  • Prepare and transmit Customs entries through ABI software.
  • Process ISFs, in-bond transactions, and routine post-entry corrections.
  • Review commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and supporting documentation.
  • Verify entry information for accuracy and completeness.
  • Monitor daily shipment activity to ensure filings are completed within required deadlines.
  • Resolve routine entry issues with clients, carriers, freight forwarders, and government agencies.
  • Escalate unusual compliance or legal matters to the Customs Broker.

Client Communication

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for routine brokerage operations.
  • Communicate shipment status and documentation requirements clearly and professionally.
  • Build strong client relationships through responsive and proactive communication.
  • Coordinate with clients to obtain missing documentation and resolve routine entry questions.

Leadership & Training

  • Mentor interns and entry writers.
  • Teach team members how to research Customs regulations, HTS classifications, CROSS rulings, PGA requirements, and CBP guidance using authoritative resources.
  • Review work completed by junior staff and provide constructive feedback.
  • Encourage independent problem-solving and continuous learning.
  • Help maintain a collaborative, professional team environment.

Process Improvement

  • Recommend improvements to operational workflows.
  • Assist in developing and maintaining standard operating procedures.
  • Help improve internal training materials.
  • Identify opportunities to increase efficiency while maintaining compliance.

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum 3–5 years of recent U.S. Customs entry-writing experience.
  • Strong working knowledge of ACE and ABI processing.
  • Thorough understanding of U.S. Customs entry procedures.
  • Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to prioritize multiple shipments and consistently meet deadlines.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently in a remote environment.
  • Reliable internet connection and dedicated home office.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with one or more of the following:

  • FDA
  • USDA
  • EPA
  • CPSC
  • Lacey Act
  • PGA filings
  • Temporary Importation Bonds (TIBs)

Additionally preferred:

  • Experience mentoring or supervising entry writers.
  • Experience developing procedures or training documentation.

The Ideal Candidate

We're looking for someone who:

  • Takes ownership of their responsibilities.
  • Is self-motivated and dependable.
  • Enjoys helping others learn and succeed.
  • Knows how to research unfamiliar issues before asking for assistance.
  • Communicates professionally with clients and coworkers.
  • Welcomes constructive feedback and uses it to improve.
  • Is committed to accuracy, compliance, and excellent customer service.
  • Looks for opportunities to improve processes and increase efficiency.

What We Offer

  • 100% remote position
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Competitive hourly compensation
  • Paid software and process training
  • Opportunity to grow into a key leadership role within a growing brokerage
  • Collaborative team environment where initiative and ideas are valued

To Apply

Please submit:

  • Resume
  • Brief summary of your Customs brokerage experience
  • Years of Customs entry-writing experience
  • ABI software platforms you have used
  • Experience training or mentoring others (if applicable)
  • Hourly compensation expectation
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