Senior Export Compliance Specialist

The Senior Trade Classification Specialist is responsible for the accurate and timely classification of imported and exported products under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS/HTSUS) and the Export Control Classification Number (ECCN). This role supports compliant cross-border trade, duty optimization, and risk mitigation by partnering with Engineering, Supply Chain, Trade Compliance, and external customs brokers to ensure correct product data and documentation. The ideal candidate combines strong technical/analytical skills with hands-on experience in tariff classification and trade compliance operations.

Responsibilities

Review product information, technical drawings, bills of material, and specifications to determine and assign accurate HTS/HTSUS classifications for imports and Schedule B codes for exports; Determine and maintain Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) and related export control jurisdiction where applicable; Classify products early in the development and item setup process and prioritize transactions requiring classification; Design and maintain a standardized classification decision framework for commonly imported items; Collaborate with customs brokers to ensure timely updates to the parts database, adherence to classification standards, and identify inconsistencies; research and file corrections promptly; Develop and document defendable classification rationales, including notes, GRIs, Explanatory Notes, CROSS rulings, and internal precedents; Maintain and continuously improve the product classification database within the company's ERP and/or Global Trade Management (GTM) system; Support country-of-origin and preferential origin determinations (e.g., USMCA and other FTAs) based on bills of material and manufacturing processes; Partner with Purchasing, Logistics, Engineering, and Product Management to obtain complete and accurate technical data; Assist with internal audits, CF28/CF29 responses, and other inquiries from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and foreign customs authorities related to classification; Monitor relevant changes in the Harmonized System, HTSUS, and classification rulings; update internal classifications and procedures accordingly; Contribute to training materials and deliver training to internal stakeholders on classification fundamentals and data requirements

Requirements

Minimum of 8 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 6 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD with 3 years experience; or equivalent experience; Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, International Trade, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and directly relevant experience; Minimum 10 years of hands-on experience in customs tariff classification within a corporate trade compliance environment; Comprehensive understanding of tariff classification, customs regulations, and export controls; Working knowledge of Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs); Export control classification (ECCN) under the EAR and/or ITAR jurisdiction determinations; Experience interpreting technical documentation (e.g., mechanical/electrical drawings, specifications, bills of material); Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications; Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics) and/or Global Trade Management tools (e.g., SAP GTS, Oracle GTM, Descartes, etc.); Strong written and verbal communication skills; Licensed U.S. Customs Broker (LCB) or in active pursuit of the license; Prior experience supporting multi-region classification (e.g., EU CN codes, other national tariffs); Experience in a complex manufacturing, industrial, or high-tech environment

Benefits

Full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), and paid time off; Quarterly profit-sharing bonuses; Flexible spending or savings accounts