Description

The Customs Compliance specialists are employed primarily for government agencies, but also for private businesses They are accountable to ensure that all exports and imports conform to international and federal regulations. All services and products should be inspected and any needed adjustments are made to ensure that they meet the standards set by the government. Any violations should be reported to the appropriate authorities promptly.

They frequently train their employees and are considered confidential contact to address any issues that might arise. They must also have extensive knowledge about supply chain processes as well as international trade regulations and the global network of trade compliance. They often collaborate in conjunction with departments of their organizations like food or agriculture to ensure that all requirements are adhered to. They also act as mediators between research and customer service as well as regulatory departments, and are involved in trade logistics to make sure that the demands of clients and laws are met.

A bachelor's degree is the minimum qualification for this job, and having a master's degree of business administration may be typically required for anyone pursuing an executive position. Candidates with the U.S. License for Customs Brokers, which demands the payment of a fee and the passing of an examination, could be preferred by certain employers. Customs compliance specialists typically keep in contact to authorities like the U.S. Border and Customs Protection, Food and Drug Administration, Department of Agriculture, as well as the Office of Foreign Assets Control.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Customs Compliance Specialist with 3-6 years of experience in the United States, your main responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring compliance with import and export regulations by reviewing and classifying products based on customs codes and regulations.
  • Conducting internal audits to assess compliance with customs laws and regulations and implementing corrective actions as needed.
  • Managing customs documentation, including preparing and reviewing required customs forms, certificates, and licenses.
  • Providing guidance and advice to internal teams on customs compliance matters, including tariff classifications, valuation, and duty savings opportunities.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Customs Compliance Specialist job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • In-depth knowledge of customs regulations and procedures to ensure compliance with international trade laws and regulations.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in preparing and maintaining customs documentation, such as import and export paperwork.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills to identify and resolve customs compliance issues, including tariff classification, valuation, and duty drawback.
  • Effective communication skills to collaborate with internal teams, customs brokers, and government agencies, ensuring smooth customs processes and timely clearance of goods.

Essential Skills For Customs Compliance Specialist

1

Ensure Compliance

2

Compliance

3

Document & Reporting Compliance

Skills That Affect Customs Compliance Specialist Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Regulatory

9%

Compliance

3%

Career Prospects

The role of a Customs Compliance Specialist is crucial in ensuring adherence to customs regulations and minimizing risks for companies. For professionals in the United States with 3-6 years of experience, here are following alternative roles to consider:

  • Trade Compliance Analyst: An opportunity to specialize in analyzing and monitoring trade compliance programs, including import/export regulations and trade agreements.
  • Supply Chain Coordinator: A role focused on coordinating and optimizing supply chain activities, including procurement, transportation, and inventory management, while ensuring compliance with customs requirements.
  • International Trade Consultant: An advisory position that involves providing guidance on international trade practices, customs documentation, tariff classifications, and trade compliance strategies to clients.
  • Export Control Specialist: A role dedicated to ensuring compliance with export control regulations, including managing export licenses, conducting compliance audits, and providing training on export control procedures.

How to Learn

The role of Customs Compliance Specialist in the United States is projected to experience steady growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, there has been an increasing demand for professionals in this field. According to recent data from Google, this trend is expected to continue in the future. The job outlook for Customs Compliance Specialists remains positive, with a significant number of employment opportunities expected to be available. Companies are seeking individuals who can ensure compliance with trade regulations and manage international trade transactions effectively. This indicates a promising and stable outlook for individuals looking to pursue a career in this field.