Customs & Trade Compliance Specialist

Variant Partners; Sparta (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Variant Partners is seeking a Customs & Trade Compliance Specialist to support U.S. import/export and global trade activities in a growing manufacturing environment.

You will classify products under HTS, maintain origin data, review documentation, and collaborate with brokers and forwarders to ensure compliant shipments. Ideal candidates have 3+ years in trade compliance, strong HTS knowledge, and familiarity with USMCA and export controls.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in U.S. customs, import/export, or trade compliance.
• Strong HTS classification knowledge and accuracy.
• Understanding of U.S. customs requirements and export controls.

Responsibilities

• Support and manage U.S. import/export and trade compliance activities.
• Classify products under HTS and maintain origin data.
• Review documentation and resolve customs entry issues.
• Coordinate with customs brokers and freight forwarders
• Support USMCA, duty drawback, and tariff mitigation initiatives
• Monitor tariff changes and regulatory requirements

Skills

HTS classification

U.S. import/export compliance

Trade compliance

Document review

Liaison with brokers

Education

Bachelor's degree in supply chain or related field

Tools

ACE system

Tariff classification databases

Job description

Our client is a growing manufacturer of innovative automotive lighting and electronics solutions, supporting both traditional and emerging technologies for the automotive industry. They’re looking for a Customs & Trade Compliance Specialist to join their team and help support their growing global operations.

Why Work Here?

This newly created role offers the opportunity to take ownership of customs and trade compliance activities in a dynamic, collaborative environment. You’ll work cross-functionally with logistics, finance, sales, customer service, purchasing, and other teams while helping build and strengthen trade compliance processes. It’s a great opportunity for someone who is detail-oriented, self-motivated, and enjoys working independently with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Responsibilities

The Customs & Trade Compliance Specialist is responsible for supporting and managing U.S. import, export, and trade compliance activities:

• Classify imported products, components, and raw materials under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS)
• Maintain accurate HTS classifications and country-of-origin information
• Review import documentation and resolve customs entry or classification issues
• Manage relationships with customs brokers and freight forwarders
• Support export compliance, USMCA, duty drawback, and tariff mitigation initiatives
• Monitor changes to tariffs, trade regulations, and other requirements impacting the business
• Identify opportunities to reduce duty exposure and improve landed cost while maintaining compliance
• Develop and maintain trade compliance procedures and internal controls
• Other duties as assigned

Experience

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in U.S. customs, import/export, or international trade compliance
• Strong knowledge and practical experience with HTS classification
• Understanding of U.S. Customs requirements, including country of origin, customs valuation, and entry documentation
• Working knowledge of U.S. export-control requirements
• Experience working with customs brokers and freight forwarders
• Automotive or manufacturing experience preferred; experience with USMCA, duty drawback, tariff mitigation, ACE, or customs broker entry systems is a plus