Customs Specialist
We are seeking a detail-oriented Trade Compliance Specialist to support customs operations, trade policy adherence, and regulatory compliance within a dynamic, collaborative environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct USMCA and other Free Trade Agreement (FTA) assessments to support OEM annual requirements
- Provide strategic trade policy guidance to support production planning and business expansion initiatives
- Maintain and enhance internal systems to align with evolving global trade regulations
- Analyze and interpret changes in international trade policies and assess operational impact
- Review and validate Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classifications to ensure compliance
- Serve as the primary liaison for customs-related inquiries, shipment evaluations, and trade compliance matters
- Support the development and standardization of customs procedures and compliance practices
- Evaluate classification and valuation of imported goods in accordance with USMCA, AALA, and CAFÉ requirements
- Verify import documentation, including country of origin and regulatory compliance requirements
- Calculate applicable duties and taxes based on classification and valuation
- Approve or reject release of imported goods based on compliance with legal and regulatory standards
- Perform audits of customs entries to ensure accuracy across valuation, HTS codes, certifications, and origin declarations
- Collaborate with internal teams and customs brokers to ensure adherence to policies and regulatory requirements
- Manage USMCA certification processes, including creation, updates, and distribution to stakeholders
- Monitor and oversee customs bond processes, including renewals and compliance thresholds
- Support pre-production HTS classification for new products
- Maintain documentation standards for classification, valuation, and record retention
- Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives (Kaizen)
- Take on additional responsibilities as needed
Qualifications
Education & Certification
- Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, International Business, Trade Compliance, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
Experience
- 1–4 years of experience in customs, trade compliance, or a related function
- Familiarity with U.S. Customs (CBP) processes and tariff evaluation methodologies (RVC, TS, NC, etc.), preferably within the automotive industry
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including negotiation capabilities
- High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
- Professional demeanor when working with internal and external stakeholders
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, with experience preparing reports and presentations
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Office-based role
- Regular sitting with occasional standing, walking, and light lifting (up to 25 lbs)
- Frequent use of verbal communication and close vision tasks
