Logistics & Customs Compliance Coordinator

PURPOSE:

Lead and manage all aspects of Customs & Compliance for the Charleston site, with a primary focus on ensuring full adherence to US import regulations, tariff mitigation (including TIB and FTZ processes), and supporting optimal logistics execution for inbound and outbound shipments. Serve as the subject matter expert for customs, trade compliance, and logistics operations, driving cost optimization and regulatory compliance.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBLITY:

Customs & Compliance (Top Priority)

• Provide expert guidance on US import regulations, tariff classifications, and customs compliance.
• Prepare, submit, and manage applications for Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB), Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) programs, and other customs procedures.
• Monitor and communicate changes in trade regulations, tariffs, and compliance requirements; assess impact on business operations.
• Advise internal stakeholders on trade laws, customs rulings, and tariff schedules.
• Ensure proper classification of shipments to control and reduce duties/fees.
• Manage US Duty Drawback program, including strategic reporting and recovery of funds.
• Maintain government-issued certifications and oversee C-TPAT certification processes.
• Develop and maintain internal policies, procedures, and training materials for customs compliance.
• Liaise with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), brokers, and other regulatory authorities.
• Provide ad-hoc consulting on complex trade and customs matters (duty drawback, valuation, country-of-origin issues).

Logistics Operations

• Develop and maintain relationships with freight service providers, customs brokers, and external warehousing partners.
• Negotiate transportation contracts for drayage, LTL, FTL, small packages, and 3PLs.
• Facilitate and resolve carrier damage and loss claims.
• Collaborate with Purchasing for supply concepts and raw material logistics.
• Prepare and review documents for inbound/outbound freight; approve freight and customs broker invoices.
• Lead internal logistics projects as needed (e.g., factory jointing supply, trial materials).
• Support and/or create documentation for non-customer project exports and vessel activity.

General & Cross-Functional

• Provide subject matter expertise to other functional teams regarding plant logistics and customs compliance.
• Establish and expand practices, templates, policies, tools, and partnerships to mature plant capabilities.
• Train employees on changes to US or Foreign Trade Regulations.
• Evaluate and implement FTZ designation for the facility.

REQUESTED COMPETENCIES & QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; Master’s preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in logistics management, global trade, and customs compliance.
• Proven experience with TIB, FTZ, duty drawback, and HS code determination.
• Experience with manufacturing drawback and foreign trade zones preferred.
• Experience obtaining CTPAT certification preferred.
• Strong analytical skills; ability to interpret complex regulations and provide practical solutions.
• Project management experience preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Service-oriented with a track record of high internal customer satisfaction.
• Ability to work across organizations, manage multiple priorities, and deliver solutions in line with business strategy.

Personal Attributes

• Self-starter with initiative and confidence.
• Strong team player; able to build and sustain cooperative working relationships.
• Adaptable to change and remote collaboration.
• Holds self and others accountable for high-quality, timely, and cost-effective results.