JOB OVERVIEW
The Customs Lead is responsible for the company's internal customs function across the United States, Canada, Italy, and Portugal, acting as the internal subject-matter expert and primary point of contact for customs-related matters. The role manages the performance of external customs brokers and coordinates with outsourced Trade Compliance consultants, while specialized Trade Compliance remains outsourced.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee U.S., Canadian, and EU customs operations.
- Manage relationships and performance of external customs brokers, recurring errors, delays, and broker KPIs.
- Oversee HS/HTS classification, country of origin, customs documentation, and entry review.
- Develop and maintain customs procedures, SOPs, and controls.
- Manage customs audits, recordkeeping, corrections, and issue resolution.
- Identify opportunities for duty optimization and process improvements.
- Manage duty drawback claims and identify recovery opportunities.
- Manage temporary import/export procedures for repairs, exchanges, and asset movements.
- Monitor customs-related regulatory changes and assess operational impact.
- Standardize customs processes across international locations.
- Serve as the internal liaison with outsourced Trade Compliance consultants.
- Work closely with the outsourced Trade Compliance consultants.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, International Trade, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- 5+ years of experience in customs operations or trade compliance, preferably in the aviation or aerospace industry.
- Strong working knowledge of U.S. customs regulations (CBP), with familiarity with Canadian (CBSA) and EU customs procedures.
- Hands-on experience with HS/HTS classification, country of origin, customs valuation, and duty drawback.
- Experience managing customs brokers and freight forwarders.
- U.S. Customs Broker License (LCB) or a recognized customs designation, such as Certified Customs Specialist (CCS), is a plus.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally.
- Fluency in English required; Italian or Portuguese is a plus.
Job Demands:
Work is performed in a Shop environment and requires the ability to perform extensive standing, driving, walking, and climbing; to lift up to 50lbs. regularly; to manipulate up to 100lbs. with assistance. Must be able to bend, stoop, climb to reach materials, and work in a noisy environment.
