International Trade Specialist

First Quality • Mcelhattan, PA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

First Quality is a family-owned company with over 35 years of history, growing from a small business into a group of companies employing over 5,000 team members. We maintain our family values and entrepreneurial spirit across our corporate offices in New York and Pennsylvania, and 8 manufacturing campuses in the U.S. and Canada. Our products include personal care and household items, as well as manufactured raw materials and components. Guided by values of humility, unity, and integrity, we use advanced technology and innovation to drive growth. We offer a collaborative environment focused on continuous learning, professional development, and our mission to 'Make Things Better®'. We are seeking an International Trade Compliance Specialist for First Quality Consumer Products in McElhattan, PA. This role ensures compliance with U.S. and international trade laws (EAR, ITAR, OFAC, etc.) for all import and export activities. Responsibilities include managing global logistics, customs compliance, documentation, financial impacts, and risks for various goods. This position is key to ensuring timely delivery, minimizing delays, and maintaining global trade regulation compliance.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in import/export operations, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong working knowledge of Incoterms, HTS classification, and global trade regulations.
• Proficiency with ERP systems such as SAP, or equivalent.
• Experience with customs documentation, shipping procedures, and international logistics.
• Excellent problem-solving, organization, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.

Nice To Haves

• Licensed Customs Broker, required
• Certified Internal Trade Professional, preferred
• Certified Export Specialist (CES), preferred

Responsibilities

• Manage the import and export process of raw materials, machinery, parts, and finished goods aligned with production schedules.
• Ensure compliance with all international trade regulations, U.S. and foreign customs laws, and manufacturing-specific import/export requirements.
• Prepare, verify, and maintain shipping and customs documentation, including invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and certificates of origin.
• Work closely with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and 3PL partners to coordinate timely and cost-effective global shipments.
• Collaborate with internal teams—procurement, production, quality, warehousing, legal, and product development to assess trade compliance implications of new products or markets —to align logistics with supply chain needs.
• Track shipments in real time and proactively resolve any issues with customs clearance or logistics delays.
• Optimize logistics operations and reduce transportation costs through vendor negotiation and process improvements.
• Develop strategic international strategies to deliver the lowest cost options while limiting risk of finished goods sales as well as raw materials and machinery procurement.
• Maintain records in accordance with company policy and support internal and government audits as needed.
• Stay informed of changes in tariffs, sanctions, and other trade compliance requirements.
• Obtain and manage import/export licenses, certificates, and permits (including, but not limited to, customs bonds and powers of attorney) as required.
• Manage international partner relationships and well as implement a network of partners that supports all First Quality requirements
• Develop and deliver training programs for staff on international trade compliance policies and procedures
• Assist with internal audits, risk assessments, and corrective actions to mitigate compliance risks.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and bonus opportunities
• Paid time off (three-week minimum)
• Medical, dental and vision starting day one
• 401(k) with employer match
• Paid parental leave
• Child and family care assistance (dependent care FSA with employer match up to $2500)
• Bundle of joy benefit (year's worth of free diapers to all team members with a new baby)
• Tuition assistance
• Wellness program with savings of up to $4,000 per year on insurance premiums

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level