Customs Compliance Specialist

Hi,

We are hiring for our client, so please let me know if you are interested in this opportunity.

Position: Customs Compliance Specialist

Location: NEWARK, NJ

Pay Rate : $37 per/hr in W2

Duration: 6 Months with possible Conversion to FTE

Position Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented Customs Compliance Specialist to support daily U.S. and Canadian import/export operations. This role is responsible for maintaining accurate shipment records, reconciling customs entries and duty payments, updating classification databases, monitoring shipment exceptions, and maintaining compliance documentation across government, carrier, and brokerage portals.

The ideal candidate has strong data entry accuracy, analytical skills, organizational abilities, and an understanding of supply chain and customs compliance processes, with an interest in expanding their expertise in international trade compliance.

Key Responsibilities

U.S. Import Operations

• Maintain daily inbound shipment reports using pre-alerts, broker reports, and carrier information.
• Monitor shipment holds, exceptions, and Importer Security Filing (ISF) information for ocean shipments.
• Update brokerage billing records and conduct shipment tracking as needed.
• Record customs entry details and validate information against ACE portal reports.
• Maintain duty accrual and payment records and perform periodic reconciliations.

U.S. Export Operations

• Collect and record export shipment information from internal teams, warehouses, carriers, and brokers.
• Maintain accurate outbound shipment reports and update shipping documentation.

Canadian Import Operations

• Maintain inbound shipment reports using carrier and customs broker information.
• Validate shipment releases and customs information against the CBSA CARM portal.
• Monitor shipment exceptions, update brokerage billing information, and conduct tracking research.
• Maintain duty and GST accrual, payment, and release records.

Customs Classification and Database Management

• Support the determination and maintenance of appropriate customs classifications.
• Update U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), Canadian HTS, Schedule B, and Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) records, as applicable.
• Maintain Section 232 tariff information and Other Government Agency/Partner Government Agency (OGA/PGA) databases.
• Review declarations and classification updates using available reports and factory correspondence.

Documentation and Recordkeeping

• Download, rename, organize, and file U.S. import/export and Canadian import documentation.
• Maintain invoices, bills of lading, arrival notices, delivery orders, proof of delivery documents, customs entry packets, release declarations, and brokerage billing records.
• Maintain classification declarations, FDA letters, and other OGA/PGA documentation.
• Ensure records are accurate, complete, organized, and readily accessible.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist in developing and maintaining standard operating procedures (SOPs) and desk procedures.
• Support periodic customs classification database reviews.
• Assist with customs compliance gap analyses and identify discrepancies or process improvement opportunities.
• Coordinate with internal teams, carriers, and customs brokers to resolve documentation and reconciliation issues.

Required Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail and demonstrated accuracy in high-volume data entry.
• Excellent reading comprehension and ability to extract information from emails, reports, and multiple online portals.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks and meet deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and standard office applications.
• Clear written communication and effective cross-functional coordination skills.
• Interest in developing broader customs and international trade compliance expertise.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience or exposure to U.S. import/export operations or customs brokerage.
• Familiarity with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) ACE portal and/or Canadian CBSA CARM portal.
• Experience using FedEx, UPS, and other carrier or customs brokerage portals.
• Knowledge of HTS classification, ISF filings, Section 232 tariffs, Schedule B, ECCN, and OGA/PGA requirements.
• SAP experience is a plus.
• Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) certification preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, International Business, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Work Environment

• Remote, desk-based position with standard working hours.
• Extensive computer use and frequent interaction with multiple software applications, carrier portals, brokerage systems, and government platforms.
• Requires accuracy, organization, and consistent follow-through across multiple workstreams.