US Foreign Trade Zone Specialist

Overview

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips – the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that connect our world – like AI and IoT.

If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.

Position: US Foreign Trade Zone Specialist

This role will report to the Director of Global Freight and Transportation. The Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Specialist will ensure compliance with FTZ regulations, manage inventory, and coordinate with Trade Operations to facilitate international trade operations. In addition to specific FTZ expertise, this role requires a broad understanding of the various global and regional transportation modes (Bulk Air, Ocean, Small Parcel, and Bulk Ground) and support functions (TMS, Control Towers, and developing training materials).

• Ensure all FTZ operations adhere to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations and FTZ program requirements.
• Maintain accurate records of all FTZ activities, including merchandise admissions, inventory movements, and exports.
• Oversee and reconcile FTZ inventory, ensuring accuracy and timely reporting.
• Ensure trade operations has the necessary data to prepare and submit customs forms (e.g., CBP Form 214, 7501, 7512) for FTZ operations and required reports to the FTZ Board and other relevant agencies.
• Work with internal teams (logistics, inventory, finance, trade operations) to ensure smooth FTZ operations.
• Provide guidance and support to internal teams on FTZ-related matters.
• Investigate and resolve any issues or discrepancies related to FTZ operations.
• Collaborate with Trade Operations to keep abreast of changes in U.S. Customs regulations and FTZ program guidelines.

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders in Logistics Operations, Global Trade, Finance, IT, and Legal.
• Partner with Global Trade and local customs to ensure freight process designs and executions are following Applied trade policies.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders including transportation providers, warehouse providers, and creditors.
• Ensuring Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) are in place inside Applied Operations and with Applied’s Logistics Service Providers.

Success in this role requires the ability to effectively partner and directly or indirectly lead within a matrix, multi-site, global, cross functional team consisting of representatives from transportation operations, warehouse operations, engineering, manufacturing, finance, trade compliance, and other organizations. Must be able to effectively present to and influence vertically and horizontally inside Applied at all levels and functions. Must be able to exercise effective leadership with a team of highly motivated and capable logistics professionals with a high degree of business acumen.

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Logistics Operations, Transportation or Supply Chain.
• Minimum 8 years relevant operations experience in Trade, Transportation, and Logistics disciplines.
• 2+ years of experience administering a foreign-trade zone or related import/export experience.
• Demonstrated experience in leading logistics projects and new implementations.
• Experience with SAP S/4
  
  Hana a plus.

• Strong understanding of FTZ operations and administration.
• Strong understanding and market insights of Global Freight and Transportation.
• Ability to demonstrate high sense of urgency.
• Highly adaptable in a fast paced, dynamic environment.
• Accustomed to taking accountability for ensuring that projects are completing in a timely manner.
• Internally driven and proactive in approach.
• Attention to details and analytical in problem solving.
• Strong ability to effectively communicate at all levels and…