Customs Specialist

Overview: This role supports international trade compliance through daily broker data consolidation, monthly reporting, duty investigation, and recovery processes. The analyst will work closely with Finance, Brokers, Sales, and Procurement teams to ensure data accuracy, compliance with regulations, and timely duty recovery from CBP. The role also involves reporting development, investigation of escalations, and continuous improvement of trade compliance processes. Key Responsibilities: • Data Consolidation & Reporting: • Pull ACE data, confirm data from brokers (e.g., Buckland), and consolidate reports for Finance. • Eventually own the full file merger and reporting process. • Develop monthly and periodic reporting (e.g., PUR calls). • Create standardized, automated reports (Excel, Power BI, Power Query). • Duty & Trade Compliance Investigations: • Analyze duty spikes, using HTS, part numbers, suppliers, FTA eligibility, COO, etc. • Conduct escalated investigations and prepare summary reports. • Perform post-entry audits and coordinate with brokers to address discrepancies. • File duty recovery claims, track refunds, and ensure correct G/L allocations. • Documentation Review & Validation: • Examine broker spreadsheets, 7501 forms, entry packages, FTA/COO certificates. • Work through data discrepancies and coordinate needed documentation. • Cross-Functional Communication: • Work with Finance, Sales, Purchasing, Brokers, and Customs teams. • Participate in meetings (e.g., Wednesday 12:30 with Lynch) to report out findings and actions. • Process Improvement: • Identify and implement efficiency improvements in data consolidation and reporting. • Suggest enhancements to post-entry correction workflows and documentation tracking. Required Skills & Experience: • Experience: • 5–10 years in import/export operations. • Strong background with global shipments and documentation requirements. • Experience with HTS classification, FTA/COO certificates, and duty recovery. • Technical Skills: • Excel (advanced), Power BI, Power Query – for data mining and report building. • PowerPoint – for presentation of findings and summaries. • Ability to automate and standardize reporting processes. • Soft Skills: • Strong attention to detail. • Excellent follow-through and communication skills. • Comfortable with cross-functional collaboration. Education & Certifications: • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field. • Customs-related certifications are a plus (e.g., CCS, CES, CUSECO).