Release Operations - Import Agent III

Position Summary 

This position is responsible for completion of customs clearance documentation and processing of import documentation.  This individual will act as a regular liaison with customers, other internal teams/departments and Customs personnel and will assist in ensuring that all entries are released, classified, and billed accurately within Farrow service standards. In addition, this position will assist junior customs release staff with training and the completion of complex releases.

Key Responsibilities (Supervisory/Materials/Information)

• Receive and review documents for completeness (e.g., date, description, value) ensuring that all necessary documents have been received for processing.

• Accurately and efficiently enter required information into database system to prepare required documentation for entry.
• Ensures that entries are filed on time and freight delivered in a timely manner in accordance with company and customer’s expectation.
• Process client invoices and maintain effective relationships with clients, carriers, customs, etc.
• Respond to calls and questions from internal and external sources.
• Trace shipments and set up pre-arrivals with Customs.
• Research, resolve and communicate operational or entry problems directly working with manager
• Data upload of electronic manifest data and
• FDA prior notification 
• Manage internal & external reports as needed
• Advise proper departments of client database updates
• Daily tracking and tracing and follow up required to ensure timely and efficient movement of cargo
• Arrange Customs Exam for clients
• Provide status updates and maintains excellent relationship with customer
• Work closely with other departments to delivery high level of customer service

Education and Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent
• More than 3 years customs brokerage operations experience required

Competencies, Working Skills & Attributes

• Demonstrated ability to consistently release complex entries and solve problems with minimal assistance

• Demonstrated ability in completing a variety of entry types and processes
• Demonstrated ability to file an ISF (Import Security Filing)

• Knowledge of Harmonized Tariff Schedule
• Familiar with PGA’s (FDA, EPA, NHTSA,
• USDA, APHIS) and how to complete forms
• General understanding of Cross (Customs Rulings Online Search System)

• Able to consistently prioritize and complete work according to client demands & customs requirements
• Excellent attention to detail and time management skills.
• Tactful and dependable; presents a professional image
• Fast and accurate keyboarding and mousing skills
• Strong communication skills; must be able to read, write and speak English fluently and professionally communicate by email and telephone with a variety of people including co-workers, clients, government agencies, steamship lines, trucking companies, warehouses and exam sites, etc.
• Strong interpersonal skills; able to work independently as well as part of a team
• Able to multitask and keep track of priorities and ETA’s
• Able to perform basic mathematical calculations
• Demonstrated ability with standard business applications (e.g. MS Office, email, internet) and standard office equipment (e.g. computer, fax, photocopier, scanner, telephone, etc.)

Working Conditions, Mental Effort & Physical Requirements 

• Accuracy is required when entering appropriate data, adding figures and reconciling documents 
• Concentration is required in balancing several tasks at one time
• Repetitive keyboarding / mousing; generally, more than 6 hours per day
• Able to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced, multitasking environment
• Sitting at a desk for prolonged periods of time (up to ½ hour – 1 hour at a time) for more than 6 hours per day
• Ability to focus on computer screen/and or written materials for extended periods of time.
• Ability to work under deadlines and related stresses
• Must work some statutory holidays
• May be required to work off shifts to assist with coverage or as part of their regular shift.  (Note: Some locations operate 24-7)
• Clean, non-hazardous office environment