Customs Lead

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.