Customs Compliance Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the globalized era, the role of Customs Compliance Specialists has become critical.

As international trade advances, the demand for experts who can navigate, improve, and secure our international trade compliance procedures intensifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s genuinely expected from a Customs Compliance Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager aiming to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the inner workings of customs compliance,

You’re at the right destination.

Today, we present a customizable Customs Compliance Specialist job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Customs Compliance Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Customs Compliance Specialists are primarily responsible for ensuring that all import and export activities comply with applicable customs regulations.

They are often involved in the process of customs documentation preparation and submission, and they are the primary point of contact for customs-related issues within their organizations.

The duties and responsibilities of a Customs Compliance Specialist include:

• Reviewing and verifying customs declarations and other documentation for accuracy
• Ensuring compliance with all applicable customs laws and regulations
• Classifying products according to the Harmonized System (HS) code
• Communicating with customs officials and representatives on behalf of the organization
• Providing guidance and support to internal teams on customs-related matters
• Identifying and mitigating potential customs risks and issues
• Developing and implementing customs compliance procedures and policies
• Keeping up-to-date with changes in customs laws and regulations
• Coordinating with freight forwarders, brokers, and other involved parties
• Conducting internal audits to ensure compliance with customs regulations and procedures
• Providing training to staff on customs compliance issues
• Managing record keeping systems for all customs documentation

 

Customs Compliance Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced Customs Compliance Specialist to ensure our company adheres to legal standards and in-house policies.

You will be responsible for enforcing regulations in all aspects and levels of business as well as provide guidance on compliance matters.

A great Customs Compliance Specialist is well-versed in legal guidelines and corporate governance best practices.

They are professionals of high ethical standards and work diligently to complete their duties while keeping in mind the objectives of the business.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement company policies and regulations.
• Understand and adhere to all pertinent legal guidelines and internal policies.
• Ensure all operations adhere to customs and trade laws.
• Review and evaluate company procedures and reports to identify hidden risks or common issues.
• Coordinate with different department managers to review all departmental compliance policies.
• Keep abreast of regulatory developments within or outside of the company as well as evolving best practices in compliance control.
• Prepare reports for senior management and external regulatory bodies as appropriate.
• Assess company operations to determine compliance risk.
• Ensure proper reporting of violations or potential violations to duly authorized enforcement agencies as appropriate and/or required.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Compliance Officer or Compliance Manager.
• Experience in risk management.
• Integrity and professional ethics.
• Business acumen partnered with a dedication to legality.
• Methodical and diligent with outstanding planning abilities.
• Excellent communication skills.
• BSc/BA in law, finance, business administration or a related field.
• Certified compliance professional is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Customs Compliance Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with some travel for industry events and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Compliance Manager or Director of Compliance.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Customs Compliance Specialist Do?

Customs Compliance Specialists work for various companies involved in international trade or logistics, helping them navigate the complex regulations and requirements of customs agencies worldwide.

Their primary role is to ensure that their company’s imports and exports comply with the laws and regulations of each country they are trading with.

This involves determining tariff and tax payments, preparing necessary documentation, and ensuring that all goods are properly declared.

Customs Compliance Specialists are also responsible for maintaining up-to-date knowledge of changes in customs regulations and import/export laws.

They provide guidance and training to other staff members and departments on customs procedures and regulatory updates.

They often conduct internal audits to check for potential non-compliance issues, and if any are found, they work on corrective action plans to address them.

In case of disputes or inquiries from customs authorities, the Customs Compliance Specialist is the point of contact, providing all necessary documents and responses.

In addition, these professionals may also be involved in the planning and implementation of customs compliance strategies aimed at reducing costs and improving operational efficiency.

 

Customs Compliance Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Customs Compliance Specialist must have a wide range of skills and qualifications to ensure that all import and export activities are conducted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

These include:

• Strong understanding of international trade laws and regulations to ensure compliance with customs requirements.
• Exceptional attention to detail to accurately classify goods, calculate duties and manage documentation.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to resolve issues related to customs compliance and troubleshoot any operational issues.
• Good communication skills to work with various stakeholders, including suppliers, transportation companies, and government officials. They must also be able to clearly explain complex regulations and procedures.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, keep track of shipments, and meet deadlines.
• Technical proficiency in using customs-related software programs and systems for preparing and submitting necessary documentation and reporting.
• Strong analytical skills to review and interpret trade compliance regulations and assess their impact on the business.
• Experience in conducting audits and investigations to ensure compliance with customs laws and regulations.

 

Customs Compliance Specialist Experience Requirements

A Customs Compliance Specialist typically holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business, Logistics, or a related field.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an internship or part-time role in a customs-related environment.

These professionals can gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Customs Broker, Import/Export Coordinator, or Compliance Analyst.

They learn about various customs regulations, trade agreements, and compliance procedures.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of customs laws and regulations, including knowledge of international trade and import/export operations.

They may also have experience dealing with customs officials and understanding the processes of customs clearance and documentation.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position.

They usually have advanced knowledge in managing customs compliance processes and ensuring all aspects of business operations align with customs regulations.

These individuals may also have certifications from recognized bodies like the Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) program.

 

Customs Compliance Specialist Education and Training Requirements

A Customs Compliance Specialist typically requires a bachelor’s degree in international relations, business, law, or a related field.

It is crucial for them to have an in-depth understanding of international trade laws and regulations.

Familiarity with import/export procedures and documentation is also required.

Some positions may require a certification such as a Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or Certified Export Specialist (CES) from the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA).

This certification demonstrates proficiency in customs regulations and procedures.

Some employers may prefer candidates who have a master’s degree in international business or law, particularly for more advanced roles.

It’s also beneficial for a Customs Compliance Specialist to have strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret and apply complex regulations.

Continuing education is critical in this field due to the ever-changing nature of international trade laws and regulations.

Therefore, ongoing learning and staying updated with the latest practices in customs compliance are essential for career advancement.

 

Customs Compliance Specialist Salary Expectations

A Customs Compliance Specialist earns an average salary of $59,229 (USD) per year.

The salary range may significantly vary depending on factors such as years of experience, education, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Customs Compliance Specialist Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Customs Compliance Specialist need?

A Customs Compliance Specialist generally requires a bachelor’s degree in business administration, international relations, logistics, or a related field.

Some employers may also require candidates to have previous experience in import/export operations, customs compliance, or similar roles.

In-depth knowledge of customs regulations and the ability to interpret and apply these regulations is also important.

Certain certifications, such as a Customs Broker License, can be beneficial.

 

What are the daily duties of a Customs Compliance Specialist?

Customs Compliance Specialists typically review and interpret customs regulations and ensure company operations are in compliance.

They may also prepare and submit necessary documentation for the import/export of goods, conduct internal audits, communicate with customs officials, and provide training to company staff on customs procedures.

Their role often involves staying updated on changes in international trade regulations and implementing changes as needed to maintain compliance.

 

What skills does a Customs Compliance Specialist need?

Customs Compliance Specialists need strong analytical skills to interpret complex regulations and determine how they apply to company operations.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are necessary to interact with customs officials and to provide training to staff.

Attention to detail is crucial for preparing accurate documentation and ensuring compliance with regulations.

They also require problem-solving skills to resolve potential compliance issues and prevent disruptions in the company’s supply chain.

 

What qualities make a good Customs Compliance Specialist?

A good Customs Compliance Specialist is highly organized and detail-oriented, ensuring all paperwork is accurate and deadlines are met.

They need to be adaptable, as regulations can change frequently, and proactive in staying abreast of these changes.

They must also be able to work well under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Integrity is an important quality, as they are responsible for ensuring the company follows laws and regulations.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Customs Compliance Specialist?

Hiring a Customs Compliance Specialist can be challenging due to the specific knowledge and experience required for the role.

It’s important to find candidates who not only have a strong understanding of customs regulations but also possess the skills to effectively apply this knowledge in a practical setting.

Offering competitive compensation and opportunities for professional development can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And so, we arrive at the end.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricacies of being a Customs Compliance Specialist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about understanding regulations.

It’s about navigating the global trade landscape, one regulation at a time.

With our carefully curated Customs Compliance Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready for your next step.

But don’t stop now.

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for creating spot-on job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every regulation is part of a much larger trading landscape.

Let’s navigate this world. Together.

How to Become a Customs Compliance Specialist (Complete Guide)

The Good Times Gig: Jobs That Bring More Than Just a Paycheck

Stress-Free and Soaring: Careers That Keep You Calm and Climbing

Humanity’s Haven: Jobs Unreachable by AI’s Hands

Rise of the Robots: Professions That Will Soon Be AI’s Domain