Trade Compliance Specialist (Carlsbad)

Trade Compliance Specialist

Location: Carlsbad 92008

Schedule: Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM (100% onsite)

Employment Type: Direct Hire

Compensation: $85,000 – $95,000 annually (D.O.E.)

Nature of Work

The Trade Compliance / Logistics Specialist is responsible for ensuring all import and export activities comply with international trade laws and regulations, including ITAR, EAR, and U.S. Customs requirements This position ensures that all global trade activities adhere to applicable laws and regulations. Responsibilities include classifying products, managing import/export documentation, screening business partners, and implementing compliance policies. The role also involves managing HTS classifications, conducting supplier audits, securing export licenses, and identifying duty-saving opportunities to support efficient international operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily import/export compliance activities and resolve shipment issues.
• Coordinate with customs brokers and freight forwarders to ensure timely clearance.
• Review shipping documentation for accuracy and regulatory adherence.
• Ensure compliance with Export Administration Regulations (EAR), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and U.S. Customs requirements.
• Stay current with evolving trade laws and regulatory updates.
• Determine and validate HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) classifications.
• Assign and verify Country of Origin and ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) for products.
• Manage Section 232 tariff exclusions and preferential trade programs such as USMCA/CUSMA.
• Verify Certificates of Origin and ensure supplier compliance.
• Review commercial invoices, bills of lading, and other shipping documentation.
• Conduct audits to ensure compliance, accuracy, and proper recordkeeping.
• Perform internal audits of trade data and identify compliance risks.
• Recommend and implement corrective actions to minimize risk and reduce costs.
• Identify process inefficiencies and propose operational improvements.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory agencies such as U.S. Customs, FDA, and USDA.
• Respond to inquiries and manage compliance-related communications.
• Collaborate with internal teams (logistics, legal, sales) and external partners to ensure compliant and timely shipments.
• Conduct restricted party screenings.
• Develop, implement, and maintain company trade compliance policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Proven experience in international logistics, customs brokerage, or import/export compliance.
• Experience within a manufacturing or contract manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of EAR, ITAR, and U.S. Customs regulations.
• Proficiency with ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle.
• Experience with global trade management (GTM) systems is highly desirable.
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, International Business, or a related field.
• Certified U.S. Export Compliance Officer (CUSECO) and/or Licensed Customs Broker certification is preferred.