Trade Compliance Specialist

Position Summary

Our client is seeking a Trade Compliance Specialist to join its logistics and compliance function. This role is responsible for ensuring all import and export activities align with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations and applicable international trade laws.

The Trade Compliance Specialist will oversee and support the organization’s customs compliance program, including classification, documentation, internal controls, audits, and regulatory adherence. This position serves as an internal subject matter expert and partners cross-functionally to promote accurate, timely, and compliant trade operations across the business.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Oversee compliance with U.S. Customs and international trade regulations, ensuring proactive adherence

• Monitor regulatory changes and communicate relevant updates internally

• Serve as an internal trade compliance subject matter expert, partnering with cross-functional teams (including product development and supply chain) to obtain accurate information

• Manage and maintain internal import and export compliance processes and controls

• Review existing compliance procedures and recommend or implement improvements as needed

• Develop and lead periodic customs audit testing programs

• Coordinate and support supply chain security initiatives across the organization

• Lead efforts related to supply chain security certifications and readiness initiatives (e.g., C-TPAT or similar programs)

• Manage and improve duty recovery programs with a focus on efficiency and timeliness

• Prepare and submit required customs amendments and filings

• Track, analyze, and help reduce customs fines, penalties, and compliance risks

• Support responses to customs inquiries, audits, and information requests

• Determine, document, and maintain accurate tariff classifications and applicable duty rates

• Conduct regular compliance audits and implement corrective actions

• Identify opportunities to reduce duties and enhance overall trade compliance efficiency

• Perform additional duties as required to support regulatory and compliance objectives

Skills and Experience

• Strong knowledge of international trade, customs, and import/export regulations

• Proven experience managing or supporting customs compliance programs

• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across departments

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Excel, Word)

• Experience working with ERP or trade compliance systems preferred

• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities

• Ability to interpret and apply work instructions, policies, and regulatory guidance

Education and Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required

• 3–5 years of experience in customs compliance, import/export operations, customs brokerage, or a related trade compliance role

• Experience participating in or supporting import/export audits

• Ability to clearly communicate information in one-on-one and small group settings

• Collaborative, team-oriented mindset with a focus on continuous improvement

• Ability to adapt and perform effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment

• Experience supporting or leading trade compliance meetings or working groups

• Ability to obtain binding rulings from U.S. Customs when applicable

• Working knowledge of federal trade regulations and global trade agreements