Trade Compliance Specialist

Brightpath Associates LLC; Milwaukee (WI); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Brightpath Associates LLC is seeking a Customs Brokerage Trade Compliance Specialist to ensure import activities comply with CBP and other agency requirements. You will advise importers, support compliance programs, and help mitigate regulatory risks.

Responsibilities include HTS classification, GRIs interpretation, and serving as liaison with CBP and clients. Requires a Customs Broker License and 5+ years in trade compliance.

Qualifications

• Experience as an entry writer with understanding of Customs Brokerage Operations.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations and HTS classification processes.
• Familiarity with GRIs, Explanatory Notes, and PGAs requirements.
• Ability to interpret ADD/CVD and communicate findings to clients clearly.
• Experience with recordkeeping and post-entry processes.

Responsibilities

• Classify imported products and assign HTS using appropriate resources.
• Apply GRIs, Explanatory Notes, and U.S. Customs regulations knowledge.
• Demonstrate expertise in PGA requirements (FDA, USDA, EPA, others).
• Review ADD/CVD cases and communicate implications to clients.
• Conduct audits for entry processing to ensure compliance.
• Process post-entry activities: PSCs, Protests, Reconciliation, audits.
• Guide clients on compliance topics including PGA, IPR, FTAs.
• Liaise with CBP, PGAs, and clients on compliance matters.
• Maintain CBP recordkeeping; update manuals, SOPs, training.

Skills

Entry writer

Excel proficient

Oral & written comms

Attention to detail

Analytical problem solving

Strategic compliance thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Customs Broker License

Tools

CargoWise

Job description

Job Title: Customs Brokerage Trade Compliance Specialist

Department: Customs Brokerage

Reports to: Vice President of Customs Brokerage

FLSA Status: Exempt

Office Locations: Itasca IL or Milwaukee WI

Remote Available: MI, TN, TX, GA

Job Summary:

The Customs Brokerage Trade Compliance Specialist ensures that all import activities comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations and other government agency requirements. This role supports the brokerage team by providing regulatory guidance, maintaining compliance programs, and facilitating efficient and lawful cross-border trade operations. The position serves as a key advisor to importers, ensuring compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations and other government agency requirements. And provides expert consulting services, supports clients in navigating complex import regulations, and helps mitigate compliance risks.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Classify a wide range of imported products using appropriate resources and tools to ensure accurate HTS assignment.
• Apply a strong working knowledge of the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs), Explanatory Notes, and U.S. Customs regulations.
• Demonstrate expertise in Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) requirements, including FDA, USDA, EPA, and others.
• Review and interpret Antidumping and Countervailing Duty (ADD/CVD) cases, and communicate relevant information to clients clearly and accurately.
• Conduct audits for entry processing to ensure accuracy and compliance with customs regulations.
• Process post-entry activities such as Post Summary Corrections, Protests, Reconciliation and audit responses.
• Provide guidance to clients on compliance-related topics including PGA requirements, IPR, ADD/CVD, FTAs, and more.
• Serve as a liaison with CBP, PGA (Partner Government Agencies), and clients on compliance-related matters
• Maintain accurate records in accordance with CBP’s recordkeeping requirements
• Ensure compliance with U.S. Customs regulations (19 CFR), HTS classification, valuation, country of origin, and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
• Maintain and update internal compliance manuals, SOPs, and training materials.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Experience as an entry writer with understanding of Customs Brokerage Operations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite, particularly Excel.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• High attention to detail.
• Ability to analyze information, solve complex problems, and make critical decisions with limited information.
• Strategic thinking with a proactive approach to compliance.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic environment with evolving responsibilities.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Ability to work independently and manage desk to defined service levels.

Required Education and Experience:

• Valid Customs Broker License
• 5+ years of experience in customs brokerage or trade compliance
• Comprehensive HTS classification skills in all commodities
• Strong knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations
• Experience with CargoWise is a plus.