Customs Compliance Specialist

Customs SpecialistThe Customs Specialist supports the successful execution of trade compliance initiatives by coordinating customs-related activities in alignment with U.S. customs laws and import/export regulations. This role serves as the primary liaison between internal stakeholders and external trade compliance subject matter experts, ensuring project deliverables remain on track, data is accurately maintained, and customs processes are effectively implemented. The position focuses on project coordination, product master data management (including HTS classifications), monitoring progress through reporting and KPIs, and supporting audits and statutory reporting. The role offers the opportunity to shape and grow a newly established trade compliance function within a dynamic logistics environment.Responsibilities include:Coordinate HTS code management and maintenance activities in partnership with third-party trade compliance subject matter experts and internal stakeholders.Support the preparation, review, and submission of import and export documentation and declarations to ensure accuracy and compliance.Coordinate the migration and ongoing maintenance of customs classification data within ERP and other internal systems.Partner with freight forwarders, customs brokers, parcel service providers, and external consultants to support import clearance and customs-related activities.Coordinate the classification of products and parts by gathering required information, facilitating external review, and maintaining approved HTS codes and customs-relevant master data.Support product classification activities, including documentation associated with licenses, permits, and binding tariff information.Assist with sanctions, restricted-party, and embargo screening processes and promptly escalate potential concerns to appropriate subject matter experts.Track changes to applicable customs and trade compliance requirements and support the implementation of updates within internal processes and systems.Support compliance with U.S. customs laws, export control regulations, and established trade compliance procedures.Assist with preference, country-of-origin, and supplier declaration processes, including the collection and maintenance of supporting documentation.Review customs and shipping documents for completeness, consistency, and accuracy, and ensure records are properly maintained and archived.Serve as an internal point of coordination for communication with customs authorities, regulatory bodies, brokers, and external trade compliance partners.Review shipping, freight, brokerage, and import-related invoices for accuracy and coordinate resolution of discrepancies with relevant stakeholders.Monitor project timelines, deliverables, action items, and key performance indicators, and provide regular progress updates to internal stakeholders.Support the translation and conversion of vendor-provided classification data into standardized formats for use within company systems.Assist with statutory, customs, and project-related reporting in accordance with regulatory and internal requirements.Maintain organized records, project documentation, status reports, and data logs for more than 2,000 parts and products.Support internal and external audits, regulatory reviews, and inspections by gathering documentation and coordinating responses.Identify and escalate issues related to data accuracy, project timing, customs documentation, or regulatory compliance to appropriate stakeholders.Collaborate closely with the logistics team while serving as the primary onsite resource focused on trade compliance as the department expands.Essential skills include:2–3+ years of professional experience in customs compliance, international trade, import/export operations, supply chain, or logistics.Hands-on experience with customs entry preparation and review.Experience reviewing shipping, freight, brokerage, and import-related invoices for accuracy and compliance.Experience supporting regulatory compliance initiatives, trade compliance activities, or business process implementation projects.Working knowledge of customs compliance, international trade, and import/export processes.Knowledge of Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classifications and U.S. customs or import/export compliance regulations.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, with strong data management and reporting skills.Experience working with ERP systems; familiarity with SAP or Syspro is beneficial, though other ERP experience is also valued.Familiarity with trade compliance systems such as ADV Tool, Aristocrat, ACE Portal (Automated Commercial Environment), or similar customs applications.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly in managing large volumes of product and classification data.Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, external partners, and regulatory stakeholders.Commitment to data accuracy, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement of customs-related processes.Additional skills and qualifications include:Experience in logistics, imports, exports, and rail or truck transportation environments.Experience working within export compliance and import documentation frameworks.Exposure to customs law and trade compliance best practices.Ability to work independently while coordinating closely with a broader logistics and trade compliance team.Comfort with wearing multiple hats in a growing department and adapting to evolving responsibilities.Demonstrated growth mindset, positive attitude, and strong attention to detail.Interest in contributing to the development of a new trade compliance function and shaping long-term processes and standards.Work environment is 100% onsite, working approximately 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a 30-minute lunch break. The role is based at a distribution site within an ITAR-controlled facility, with occasional need to walk to a nearby building located just two buildings away. You will work closely with an established logistics team that currently shares many of the customs and trade compliance responsibilities and will provide support during onboarding and training. As the first dedicated trade compliance specialist at this location, you will be the primary onsite resource focused on customs and trade compliance while collaborating with counterparts at other global sites. The environment is fast-paced and collaborative, offering the opportunity to help build out a new department and potentially transition from an initial contract assignment to a direct role based on future budget decisions. The organization specializes in business-class and premium passenger seating systems for commercial aircraft, including full lie-flat seating, providing a unique opportunity to work within a highly regulated, aerospace-related supply chain.Job type and location is a contract position based out of Huntington Beach, CA. Pay range for this position is $36.00 - $42.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: medical, dental & vision; critical illness, accident, and hospital; 401(k) retirement plan – pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available; life insurance (voluntary life & AD&D for the employee and dependents); short and long-term disability; health spending account (HSA); transportation benefits; employee assistance program; time off/leave (PTO, vacation or sick leave).