Customs Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Customs Specialist

General Description/Purpose:
The Customs Specialist is responsible for compliance, ensuring that all company imports and exports comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations and international trade laws. This role involves preparing and reviewing documentation, classifying goods according to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), coordinating with customs brokers and freight forwarders, and maintaining accurate records to safeguard the company’s compliance and efficiency in global trade operations.

Job Duties (including but not limited to):

• Prepare and submit accurate import and export documentation in accordance with regulations to U.S. Customs and other government agencies.
• Maintaining correct classification of products under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and Country-of-Origin to ensure compliance across all products.
• Monitor and interpret trade regulations, tariffs, and government requirements; update internal procedures as regulations change.
• Review import duties, tariffs, and related costs, ensuring accuracy and identifying opportunities for compliant duty optimization.
• Maintain complete and organized records of all customs filings, audits, and related documentation.
• Serve as the primary liaison with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and internal departments to ensure timely and compliant clearance of shipments.
• Performing periodic audits of product classifications and import documentation for customs clearance.
• Provide guidance to internal stakeholders on customs compliance policies and best practices.
• Collaborate the wider team on Country-of-Origin documentation, certifications, and trade agreement compliance.
• Contribute to projects and initiatives aimed at improving efficiency, reducing risk, and optimizing duty costs within compliance frameworks.
• Take on additional responsibilities as required to support the team’s success.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Strong knowledge of U.S. import/export regulations, procedures, and customs compliance programs.
• Hands-on experience with HTS classification and Country-of-Origin.
• Excellent attention to detail with strong organizational skills, ability to manage multiple projects at once.
• Effective communication and collaboration abilities to work across internal teams and external partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel; advanced proficiency in logistic management systems; experience with trade compliance and ERP systems required.
• Analytical skills for identifying compliance risks and opportunities for duty optimization.
• Deep understanding of the company’s mission and how your role contributes to our goals.

Qualification Standards:

• 5+ years of experience in customs compliance, import/export operations, and international logistics.
• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Business Administration, Supply Chain, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Demonstrated knowledge of HTS classification, trade documentation requirements, and customs procedures.
• Import and export documentation compliance experience.

GEMU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws.