Foreign Trade Zone Manager

Azenta Inc.; Plainfield (IN); On-site; USD 86,000 - 108,000; Full time

Job summary

Azenta Inc. is seeking a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Manager responsible for leading the site's FTZ program. You will ensure compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations while driving operational excellence. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in FTZ operations, a strong understanding of inventory control, and the ability to manage audits.

The role involves enhancing process efficiency and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

The position offers a base compensation between $86,000 and $108,000 annually.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in FTZ operations, customs compliance, or regulated warehouse environments.
• Strong knowledge of CBP regulations (19CFR146) and FTZ procedures.

Responsibilities

• Lead the site’s FTZ program ensuring compliance and operational integrity.
• Manage daily FTZ operations including receipt, storage, movement, and shipment.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process efficiency.

Skills

Strong knowledge of CBP regulations

5+ years in FTZ operations

Experience managing audits

Inventory control systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, or related field

Tools

ICRS

WMS

Job description

Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Manager – responsible for leading the site’s FTZ program with a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance, operational excellence, and cross‑functional leadership. The role ensures all FTZ activities are executed accurately and in full adherence to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations while supporting efficient, scalable operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a subject matter expert and leader of FTZ operations, ensuring compliance and operational integrity.
• Take ownership of FTZ program performance, including inventory accuracy, reporting, and audit outcomes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance process efficiency, traceability, and compliance rigor.
• Build strong partnerships across Operations, Quality, Finance, IT, and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and execution.

Regulatory Compliance & Program Ownership

• Ensure compliance with 19 CFR 146 and FTZ Board requirements.
• Act as primary contact for CBP audits, inquiries, and site visits.
• Maintain FTZ procedures, documentation, and reporting (admissions, transfers, withdrawals, annual reports).
• Oversee preparation and submission of required FTZ documentation (admissions, transfers, withdrawals, annual reports).
• Identify risks and implement corrective actions.

Inventory & Systems Management

• Own the FTZ Inventory Control and Recordkeeping System (ICRS) to ensure data accuracy and compliance.
• Ensure accurate inventory tracking through cycle counts, reconciliations, and discrepancy resolution.
• Establish and enforce strong controls to maintain data integrity and audit readiness.
• Lead cycle count program to maintain inventory accuracy; investigate variances and implement sustainable corrective actions.

Operational Execution

• Manage daily FTZ operations (receipt, storage, movement, shipment).
• Ensure proper documentation and approvals are complete for FTZ inventory.
• Coordinate zone admissions, transfers, and removals with internal teams and customers.

Security & Risk Management

• Ensure physical and procedural security of FTZ operations.
• Identify and resolve compliance risks or security concerns in a timely manner.
• Partner with Quality and Legal on risk mitigation and regulatory alignment.

Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Track and report on KPIs, compliance, and inventory accuracy.
• Support audits and lead continuous improvement efforts focused on compliance, accuracy, and efficiency.
• Promote data‑driven decision making.

Leadership Responsibilities

• Maintain FTZ expertise and ensure compliance discipline.
• Influence cross‑functional partners and drive alignment.
• Provide training and act as internal SME.
• Lead continuous improvement and problem‑solving efforts.

What You Will Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in FTZ operations, customs compliance, or regulated warehouse environments.
• Strong knowledge of CBP regulations (19CFR146) and FTZ procedures.
• Experience managing audits and regulatory interactions.
• Experience with inventory control systems (ICRS, WMS, or similar platforms).

Preferred Qualifications

• FTZ certification or specialized customs compliance training.
• Experience implementing or scaling FTZ programs.
• Experience in life sciences or highly regulated environments.
• Experience working with external consultants or FTZ implementation partners.

This position is currently not eligible for any employment sponsorship.

If any applicant is unable to complete an application or respond to a job opening because of a disability, please email at [e-mail] for assistance.

Azenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This company considers candidates regardless of race, color, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

United States Base Compensation: $86,000.00 - $108,000.00