Trade Compliance Specialist

SRAM; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

401(k) with match

Paid time off

Job summary

SRAM in Chicago is seeking a Trade Compliance Specialist to manage U.S. import activities and serve as the subject matter expert for Customs matters. This role requires strong experience in compliance and collaboration with global teams to ensure adherence to trade regulations.

The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of experience in U.S. import compliance, strong tariff classification skills, and proficiency in SAP. Benefits include a competitive salary and comprehensive health insurance.

Qualifications

• 5-6 years of experience in U.S. import compliance within an importer environment.
• Strong end-to-end process and vendor management abilities.
• Demonstrated experience driving continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Stay current on North American trade regulations affecting SRAM imports.
• Serve as the primary resource for U.S. Import Duty impact and analysis.
• Manage Customs audits for SRAM and all subsidiaries.

Skills

Tariff classification skills

Vendor management

Continuous improvement initiatives

Microsoft Office proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

SAP

CBP's ACE Portal

CROSS

FDA resources

APHIS resources

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Trade Compliance Specialist with strong experience in import compliance within an importer environment. This role serves as the subject matter expert for U.S. Customs matters and the primary contact for all North American Customs matters for SRAM and its subsidiaries. The Analyst will manage and optimize systems that support U.S. import activities, determine tariff classifications, and assess the applicability of U.S. and other government agency regulations for imported goods. The ideal candidate takes full ownership of core U.S. Customs Compliance functions, including HS and ECCN Classification, Duty Analysis and Impact, Customs Audits, Data Management, and Broker/Vendor Management. This role collaborates closely with SRAM's global teams to ensure consistency and continuity, and reports to the Global Trade and Supply Chain Compliance Manager.

Responsibilities

• Regulatory and Compliance Management:
• Stay current on North American trade regulations affecting SRAM imports and communicate updates as needed.
• Serve as the primary resource for U.S. Import Duty impact and analysis.
• Manage Customs audits for SRAM and all subsidiaries.
• Ensure supplier, broker, and internal partner accountability for accurate and compliant data.
• Escalate corrective actions and oversee both short- and long-term process improvements.
• Maintain document retention in compliance with U.S. Customs requirements.
• Monitor, distill, and communicate changes to U.S. trade actions (232, 301).
• Data Management and System Administration:
• Ensure HTS codes and updates are accurately maintained in SRAM's MRP system (SAP).
• Maintain tariff classifications and duty rates within SAP.
• Lead HS code classification projects across multiple jurisdictions (Germany, EU, Australia, Canada).
• Facilitate accurate and timely data sharing with brokers and other relevant partners.
• Broker and Vendor Management:
• Provide full oversight and performance management of U.S. Customs brokers.
• Ensure brokers are properly equipped to represent SRAM and meet all expectations.
• Establish and manage a regular meeting cadence (virtual and in-person).
• Maintain and update SOPs with brokers as processes evolve.
• Ensure broker compliance with U.S. CBP regulations.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
• Work independently and cross-functionally with internal departments, external vendors, and U.S. Customs brokers.
• Support U.S. Distribution team goals, including on-time performance metrics.
• Deliver analysis and reporting throughout the year aligned with business priorities and strategic initiatives.
• Support the broader trade compliance function through project execution, analysis, and reporting.

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
• 5-6 years of experience in U.S. import compliance within an importer environment.
• Strong end-to-end process and vendor management abilities.
• Demonstrated experience driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Expert tariff classification skills across diverse commodities (e.g., bike parts, apparel).
• Working knowledge of SAP, CBP's ACE Portal, CROSS, FDA, APHIS, and U.S. HTS resources.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Proven success advising business partners on trade compliance matters.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• U.S. Customs Broker License, Certified Customs Specialist, or similar credential.
• Demonstrated expertise in tariff classification with defensible, audit-ready support.
• Deep understanding of U.S. Customs law and regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of Canada border processes.
• Expertise in Customs Valuation or Free Trade Agreement origin determination.
• Knowledge of U.S. Export Compliance and EEI filing.
• Understanding of Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) classification.
• Prior experience in Customs operations within an importer environment.
• Expertise in conducting precise and thorough audits.
• Proven ability to conduct thorough, high-quality research.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range starting at $80,000, with up to approximately 25% higher compensation based on experience and skills.
• Benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with match, life and disability insurance, and paid time off.

About SRAM

SRAM LLC is one of the world's largest suppliers of components to the bike industry. Established in Chicago in 1987, SRAM continues to promote cycling through its products, its advocacy, and its employees who are dedicated to improving the cycling experience. Today, SRAM employs more than 5,000+ employees, in 20+ locations, across 10+ countries. SRAM is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.