Customs Associate
Job description
About the role
This role operates within the specialized customs operations team dedicated to Canadian clearance for high profile clients. The associate is responsible for executing entry activities to satisfy regulatory requirements and specific customer expectations. Success in this position directly supports the scaling of customs operations while simultaneously maintaining the highest levels of regulatory satisfaction at Flexport. The hire will own the end to end processing of customs entries, ensuring that every submission reflects accuracy and compliance. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying potential issues before they escalate into client or regulatory problems. The work involves close collaboration with cross functional partners to resolve discrepancies and streamline workflows. Ultimately, the associate will play a critical part in building trusted relationships with clients through reliable and knowledgeable service. The role demands ownership of complex scenarios and a commitment to continuous improvement in daily processes.
Key facts
What you'll do
Prepare and submit customs entries for designated clients, enabling timely clearance of goods through CBSA using established digital channels.
Entry documentation moves through digital channels to meet CBSA and Participating Government Agencies reporting requirements with precision and speed.
Review incoming documents and organize files to verify strict adherence to reporting standards and internal quality controls.
Maintain regulatory knowledge for CBSA and Participating Government Agencies, applying updates promptly to ensure processing remains fully compliant.
Conduct thorough reviews of client interactions to support compliance goals and deliver a seamless, positive experience with Flexport.
Provide structured service to multiple clients across various shifts, aligning availability with operational coverage needs.
Utilize strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities, ensuring accuracy and timely completion of all customs activities.
Demonstrate an obsession with client happiness by proactively addressing concerns and turning challenges into opportunities for trust building.
Show the courage to challenge the status quo when logic and reason highlight inefficiencies or errors in current workflows.
Leverage proficient computer skills in G Suite applications and related tools to maintain detailed records and communicate effectively.
Requirements
A CCS designation is held, and understanding of CARM is demonstrated through practical application in prior roles.
Strong attention to detail and robust organizational skills are shown in every task, with a focus on error free execution.
An obsession with client happiness drives success, ensuring that clients feel supported and valued at all times.
The courage to challenge the status quo appears when logic and reason require fixing identified issues, even if it requires difficult conversations.
Prior experience in international trade and customs regulations is essential for the role and must be verifiable through documentation.
Familiarity with CBSA product classification and rulings is required to accurately assess the correct treatment of goods.
Effective communication relies on strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication abilities to coordinate with clients and internal stakeholders.
Proficient computer skills include G Suite applications and related tools, enabling efficient management of documentation and data.
Adaptability to evolving customs practices and regulations is necessary to remain compliant and support client needs.
Independent work thrives within a team oriented environment while maintaining a strong work ethic and commitment to accuracy and compliance.
A compliance first attitude keeps regulators happy and enthusiastic about Flexport in a heavily regulated industry.
Practical notes
This position operates remotely from Canada with multiple shift availability to ensure continuous coverage.
Travel may occur within assigned shifts as required by operational needs to address client or regulatory requirements.
Typical interview steps
Interviews in this field typically test judgment, communication, and fit as much as technical skill. Be ready to describe a challenge you faced, what you did, and what you learned. Most companies value honest answers over polished ones. Whatever the role, preparation is visible. Reviewing the company's product, the job description, and your own past work before the conversation is the strongest step.
Good to know
Accuracy, regulation awareness, and strict compliance define customs work. Professionals use specialized systems for trade documentation and government interactions. Continuous learning supports success in heavily regulated environments, and ongoing professional development is encouraged to keep skills current.
Questions to ask
Good questions to ask the employer in the interview include what does success look like in the first six months, how is the team structured, what is the current biggest challenge, and how are decisions made. Asking about growth paths and the review process is also well received, as it demonstrates a long term interest in the company. Employers expect questions, and good ones show preparation and genuine interest in the role.
Career growth
Career growth comes from taking on harder problems and making your work visible within the organization. Look for opportunities to own outcomes, mentor others, and learn the business beyond your immediate team. Growth in any career comes from scope, results, and reputation, so focus on delivering measurable impact. Take on work that is slightly uncomfortable, and ensure that your contributions are visible to leadership and peers. By actively seeking responsibility and demonstrating reliability, you position yourself for advancement within Flexport.