Import-Export Trade Coordinator (FTZ Compliance)

Job Description

Job Description

Import/Export Trade Coordinator – FTZ Compliance

Location: St. Charles, IL – near DuPage Airport
Salary: $75,000–$100,000, depending on experience
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Reason for Opening: Growth / Newly Created Position

Sterling Engineering is seeking an experienced Import/Export Trade Coordinator to support a growing international trade compliance team. This position will coordinate import and export activities with a strong emphasis on Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) compliance, U.S. Customs regulations, documentation accuracy, and continuous improvement.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced trade compliance professional who understands both the regulatory and operational sides of international logistics.

The ideal candidate brings a strong combination of hands-on import/export operations and trade compliance expertise. Experience with FTZ operations is particularly important, along with the ability to review documentation, work with brokers and freight forwarders, understand customs requirements, and identify opportunities to strengthen compliance processes. The role requires advanced knowledge of FTZs, HTS, U.S. Customs requirements, freight bidding, valuation, and Country of Origin determination.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate import/export transactions and ensure compliance with Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) requirements
• Monitor U.S. Customs regulations, international trade requirements, and regulatory changes
• Review and improve SOPs related to EEI filings, Country of Origin, HTS classifications, Schedule B, and ECCN
• Review import, export, and FTZ documentation for accuracy and regulatory compliance
• Validate Country of Origin, valuation, and OGA filings
• Maintain accurate customs records in accordance with CBP and Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR) requirements
• Coordinate with freight forwarders, customs brokers, suppliers, and internal departments to ensure timely customs clearance
• Support complex import/export transactions, routing requirements, and valuation activities
• Manage and maintain relationships with freight forwarders, customs brokers, carriers, and international suppliers
• Solicit and evaluate carrier RFPs/freight bids based on cost, delivery, and service requirements
• Support and improve FTZ and other trade compliance programs
• Serve as a key contact for C-TPAT activities
• Develop KPIs and performance reporting related to import/export operations
• Prepare reports and presentations for leadership
• Participate in compliance audits, process improvements, and special projects

The position requires significant coordination across internal departments and external partners while maintaining accurate, compliant international trade transactions.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in trade compliance, customs brokerage, or import/export operations
• Bachelor's degree in International Business, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field OR 5+ years of relevant import/export subject matter expertise
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Foreign Trade Zones (FTZ)
  • U.S. Customs regulations
  • Import/export laws
  • Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS)
  • Country of Origin
  • Customs valuation
  • Freight bidding/RFPs
• Experience reviewing customs and international shipping documentation
• Experience working directly with customs brokers, freight forwarders, carriers, and international suppliers
• Experience with trade compliance and ERP systems; Integration Point and QAD experience are a plus
• Strong Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint skills
• Experience with KPI reporting and compliance auditing
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.