Customs Specialist (Stellenbosch)

Dixie Recruitment; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a detail-oriented Customs and Tariff Control Specialist to ensure compliance with customs and tariff regulations. The successful candidate will have 5-10 years of relevant experience, and expertise in HS codes and customs software. Responsibilities include auditing customs entries, conducting tariff determinations, and communicating with customs authorities. This role is pivotal for maintaining regulatory standards in import/export operations.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years’ experience in customs clearing, tariff classification, or compliance roles.
• Expertise in HS codes, valuation/origin principles, and tariff determination.
• Familiarity with EDI submissions and customs software.

Responsibilities

• Review and submit customs entries for accuracy and compliance.
• Conduct regular audits of documentation and customs submissions.
• Perform accurate tariff determinations following guidelines.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Investigative skills

Accuracy in documentation

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Matric / Grade 12

Diploma or degree in International Trade, Supply Chain, or Customs Compliance

Tools

Customs software (ShipShape)

SARS systems

Job description

Our client is looking for a detail-oriented, analytical, and passionate about international trade compliance Customs and Tariff Control Specialist. This is a key role within our organization, ensuring that customs entries and tariff classifications are accurate, compliant, and aligned with the highest regulatory standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• Matric / Grade 12 (required)
• Diploma or degree in International Trade, Supply Chain, or Customs Compliance (preferred)
• 5–10 years’ experience in customs clearing, tariff classification, or compliance roles
• Expertise in HS codes, valuation/origin principles, and tariff determination
• Familiarity with SARS systems, EDI submissions, and customs software (such as ShipShape)
• Strong analytical, investigative, and communication skills
• Exceptional accuracy, documentation, and stakeholder engagement abilities

Key Responsibilities

Validation and Auditing

• Review, validate, and submit customs entries, HS codes, valuations, and declarations for accuracy and compliance.
• Conduct regular audits of import/export documentation and customs submissions.
• Proactively identify and resolve discrepancies or non-compliance issues before submission.
• Maintain meticulous audit records to ensure traceability and compliance.

Tariff Determination & Database Management

• Perform accurate tariff determinations in line with SARS and WCO guidelines.
• Build, maintain, and update client‑specific tariff databases for consistent code application.
• Verify and, where necessary, recommend reclassification of tariff codes.
• Document classification rationale and support audit requirements.
• Monitor and implement updates to tariff schedules, rebate provisions, and trade agreements.

Compliance Monitoring

• Conduct internal audits to assess risk and ensure legislative adherence.
• Implement corrective/preventive measures to address audit findings.
• Stay updated on customs laws and regulatory changes, communicating updates to teams and clients.

Liaison & Problem‑Solving

• Serve as point of contact between departments, clients, and customs authorities on tariff and compliance matters.
• Resolve customs‑related and SARS post‑clearance queries, and support issue resolutions such as stops, penalties, and audits.

Training, Knowledge, and Reporting

• Support internal training initiatives to promote compliance.
• Prepare monthly and quarterly compliance reports, highlighting risks and improvement actions.
• Track effectiveness of corrective measures for continuous improvement.