Senior Counsel, Global Customs & Trade Compliance

Caterpillar Inc.; Washington; On-site; USD 178,000 - 267,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401(k)

HSA

Job summary

Caterpillar Inc. is seeking a Senior Corporate Counsel, Compliance - Customs to provide legal advice on customs and trade compliance matters. This in-house role focuses on US and Canada customs matters, reporting to the Associate General Counsel for Trade and Fair Competition.

You will operate across global supply chains as part of a high-performing legal team. The role offers direct interaction with business leaders, exposure to strategic initiatives, and the chance to shape policy, procedures,

Qualifications

• J.D. or equivalent law degree from an accredited law school.
• Active Bar admission in any U.S. state or ability to practice in-house.
• Four years of progressively advancing experience in US customs regulations.
• Exposure to global trade issues or cross-border transactions is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Partner with the business on day-to-day and strategic customs and trade compliance matters, including import/export procedures, tariff classification, customs valuation, duty suspension administration, free trade agreements, rules of origin, customs compliance process development, and other trade-related compliance requirements
• Translate complex regulatory developments into clear, actionable guidance for business stakeholders
• Shape and strengthen compliance programs by assisting with the design and improvement of policies, procedures, and controls that work in practice—not just on paper
• Support strategic initiatives that intersect with global trade, supply chain, and Caterpillar’s growth objectives
• Collaborate cross-functionally with trade, logistics, tax, and commercial teams to solve problems and enable the business
• Work globally with legal colleagues around the world to deliver coordinated, high-quality legal support
• Why This Role is Different: Have direct access to business leaders and decision-making processes—you will not be sitting on the sidelines
• See the immediate impact of your advice on operations and strategy
• Move from issue-spotting to holistic problem-solving
• Develop a broad commercial perspective that enables expansion of your career beyond legal technical work
• Join a team that values practical judgment, responsiveness, and collaboration

Skills

Risk Management

Decision Making

Effective Communications

Managing Multiple Priorities

Problem Solving

Resource Management

Legal Analysis

Legal Function

Education

J.D. or equivalent law degree

Job description

Caterpillar Inc. is seeking a Senior Corporate Counsel, Compliance - Customs to provide legal advice on customs and trade compliance matters. This in-house role focuses on US and Canada customs matters, reporting to the Associate General Counsel for Trade and Fair Competition.

You will operate across global supply chains as part of a high-performing legal team. The role offers direct interaction with business leaders, exposure to strategic initiatives, and the chance to shape policy, procedures,