Trade Compliance Specialist

Job Title: Logistics & Trade Compliance Specialist

Job Description

The Logistics & Trade Compliance Specialist serves as the primary subject matter expert for U.S. and international import and export regulations. This role manages the full customs clearance lifecycle for global shipments, ensures accurate trade classification and documentation, and drives compliance across all logistics operations. The specialist partners closely with internal teams and external trade partners to support timely, cost-effective, and fully compliant movement of goods, while contributing to continuous improvement and future leadership opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Act as the primary subject matter expert for U.S. and international import and export regulations, including CBP and EAR, as well as other applicable jurisdictions.

• Manage the full customs clearance lifecycle for inbound and outbound international shipments, ensuring timely and compliant entry filing.

• Classify goods using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and ensure accurate country of origin determinations.

• Oversee and audit all trade documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, air waybills, certificates of origin, and import/export licenses.

• Identify and mitigate compliance risks related to denied parties, export controls, and customs valuation.

• Serve as the primary liaison with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and relevant government agencies such as CBP and the Census Bureau.

• Monitor regulatory changes and proactively update internal processes, procedures, and controls to maintain ongoing compliance.

• Manage Importer of Record (IOR) responsibilities and ensure all supporting documentation meets CBP and applicable foreign customs requirements.

• Coordinate inbound and outbound freight movements across air, ocean, and ground modes of transport to support on-time delivery.

• Oversee finished goods inventory accuracy through systematic reconciliation of ERP data against physical inventory and shipment records.

• Partner with procurement, production, and customer service teams to ensure accurate order fulfillment and alignment of logistics activities with business needs.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across logistics workflows, focusing on cost reduction, lead time optimization, and process efficiency.

• Document and resolve shipment discrepancies, damages, and customs holds, managing claims through to resolution.

• Support the development of best practices and standard operating procedures related to trade compliance and logistics operations.

• Contribute to a culture of operational excellence and prepare for potential growth into future management responsibilities.

Essential Skills

• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive experience in international logistics, customs compliance, or trade operations.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, International Business, or a related field.

• Demonstrated hands-on experience managing U.S. customs clearances and working directly with licensed customs brokers.

• Strong working knowledge of HTS classification, CBP regulations, EAR, and Incoterms.

• Proficiency with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar platforms.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.

• Exceptional attention to detail, with the ability to maintain high levels of accuracy in complex documentation and regulatory processes.

• Strong analytical ability and sound judgment when navigating complex regulatory scenarios and compliance risks.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage internal stakeholders and external trade authorities effectively.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) designation or active pursuit of this credential.

• Experience with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and preferential duty programs.

• Experience in life sciences, medical device, or high-tech manufacturing environments.

• Demonstrated ability to lead or contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in logistics and trade compliance.

• Interest in and potential to grow into a future manager-level role.

Work Environment

This is an onsite role based in Somerset, working on-site five days per week. The team currently operates across two adjacent offices, and a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility is being built to bring all employees together under one roof. The environment is professional and collaborative, with modern office space and systems that support ERP-driven logistics operations and close interaction with cross-functional partners.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Somerville, NJ.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $70000.00 - $85000.00/yr.

Dental Vision 401K Paid Time Off Full Benefits Package

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Somerville,NJ.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 14, 2026.

About Aston Carter

Aston Carter provides world-class corporate talent solutions to thousands of clients across the globe. Specialized in accounting, finance, human resources, talent acquisition, procurement, supply chain and select administrative professions, we extend the capabilities of industry-leading companies. We draw on our deep recruiting expertise and expansive network to meet the evolving needs of our clients and talent community with agility and excellence. With offices across the U.S., Canada, Asia Pacific and Europe, Aston Carter serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® Platinum Award winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io (%View email address on click.appcast.io) for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.