Leonid Group has been retained by a leading global company in the aerospace, defense, and high-technology sectors is looking for an Import Compliance Specialist. This company specializes in aircraft propulsion, equipment, space systems, and defense technologies.
(Irvine, California or Grand Prairie, Texas)
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage and coordinate with import brokers to ensure smooth customs clearance.
- Work with customs brokers on import-related needs, including regulatory compliance (PGA, TSCA, USMCA, COO).
- Classify goods under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff System (HTSUS) using applicable rules and guidelines.
- Analyze data and generate reports through U.S. Customs Automated Commercial Environment (ACE).
- Collaborate with engineers, product managers, and sourcing teams across multiple locations (U.S. and Mexico) to interpret technical data.
- Respond to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requests and notices in a timely manner.
- Maintain compliance records in accordance with import/export regulations and company policies.
- Provide training and support to logistics and operations teams on import/export processes and regulatory updates.
- Support ERP system enhancements (SAP, SharePoint) to improve compliance processes.
- Ensure accuracy in export documentation and filings.
- Work closely with management to mitigate compliance risks.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree plus 3+ years of import/customs compliance experience OR 8+ years of direct experience in the field.
- Strong knowledge of the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS), including general rules of interpretation and ruling applications.
- U.S. Licensed Customs Broker (preferred).
- Experience working with maquiladoras and cross-border trade (preferred).
- Aerospace and defense industry experience in an import/customs compliance role (strongly preferred).
- Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without company sponsorship.
- Due to regulatory requirements, candidates must be U.S. persons as defined by ITAR (U.S. Citizens, Green Card holders, Political Asylees, or Refugees).
Skills & Abilities:
- Familiarity with ACE portal and U.S. Census Foreign Trade Schedule B.
- Proficiency in SAP, MS Office Suite, and SharePoint.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and critical-thinking abilities.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.