Trade Compliance Specialist

Senior Director @ Corps Team | Strategic Staffing Solutions

Morton Grove, IL

Base pay range: $42.00/hr - $50.00/hr

Employment type:

Contract

Seniority level:
Associate

Job function:
Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Other

Industries:
Utilities, Energy Technology, and Manufacturing

We are seeking a Trade Compliance Specialist to join the U.S. manufacturing site. This role is critical in ensuring all import and export activities align with U.S. government regulations and corporate policies. You will play a key part in managing risk, maintaining compliance, avoiding penalties, and supporting smooth supply chain operations for raw materials and finished goods.

• Regulatory Compliance:
  Stay current on and ensure adherence to trade regulations, including EAR, ITAR, and OFAC sanctions.
• Classification:
  Assign accurate HTS and ECCN codes for goods, components, and technology.
• Documentation:
  Prepare and review commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin for timely customs clearance.
• Shipment Oversight:
  Coordinate daily import/export activities with freight forwarders and customs brokers, resolving issues promptly.
• Broker Management:
  Serve as the main point of contact for customs brokers and carriers.
• Audits:
  Conduct internal audits to validate compliance and proper recordkeeping.
• Risk Mitigation:
  Screen third parties against restricted and denied party lists.
• Duty Optimization:
  Support programs such as FTAs and duty drawback claims to reduce costs.
• Training:
  Provide compliance training and guidance to cross-functional teams (procurement, engineering, sales).
• Process Improvement:
  Contribute to projects aimed at automating and strengthening trade compliance practices.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, International Trade, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• 3–5 years of trade compliance or import/export experience (manufacturing required).
• Strong working knowledge of U.S. trade regulations (CBP, BIS).
• Experience with customs valuation, classification, and country of origin rules.
• Proficiency with ERP and trade compliance software (SAP preferred).
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Preferred:
  Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) or CUSECO certification.
• Office-based role with occasional exposure to shop or field environments.
• Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs when required.
• Standard use of office equipment (computers, phones, fax machines, copiers, printers).
• Occasional site visits to municipal and industrial water/wastewater facilities.
• PPE provided and required if going into manufacturing floor for inventory check (very minimal exposure).
• Organization:
  Ability to manage multiple fast-moving tasks and priorities.
• Communication:
  Clear, professional, and timely interaction with stakeholders.
• Responsiveness:
  Strong follow-through and proactive issue resolution.