Lead Customs Specialist 1 - Customs Operations

GE HealthCare • Waukesha, WI

3d • $96,000 - $144,000

About The Position

GE HealthCare is seeking a detail-oriented, execution-focused professional for its U.S. & Canada Customs Operations team. The Lead Customs Specialist is responsible for processes and procedures related to the movement and shipment of GE HealthCare goods across borders, and for planning and executing departmental operations while leading professional activities in customs and trade compliance.

The role independently manages priorities, drives process improvements, and makes operational decisions within established policies and regulatory requirements. It has flexibility to modify procedures and practices to improve efficiency and effectiveness while meeting quality, compliance, timeliness, and operational performance standards. The position drives improvements to import processes, operational performance, Global Trade Management capabilities, and customs and regulatory compliance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university or college, or a high school diploma/GED with at least 10 years of experience.
• At least 6 years of experience.
• Customs and U.S. border expertise.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing in English.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Teams, and Outlook.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Microsoft Power BI, Smartsheet, and AI tools.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze and resolve problems.
• Ability to document, plan, market, and execute programs.
• Established project management skills.
• LCB, CCS, APICS/ASCM certification, or equivalent professional credentials.
• Proven experience in customs operations, trade compliance, international logistics, and broker management.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. customs regulations, import processes, customs entries, and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-functional initiatives, process improvements, and operational escalations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute U.S. and Canada customs operations strategies to ensure compliance, operational excellence, cost optimization, and business continuity.
• Lead and develop a high-performing customs operations team through coaching and talent development.
• Provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise on customs regulations, import processes, and trade compliance requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance compliance, service levels, productivity, visibility, and operational efficiency.
• Use KPIs, analytics, and performance metrics to support data-driven decisions and operational governance.
• Partner with IT and business stakeholders on Global Trade Management (GTM) and ERP system enhancements, automation, and technology-driven process improvements.
• Establish and manage broker governance programs, including performance measurement, escalations, corrective actions, and service improvement plans.
• Collaborate with Logistics, Sourcing, Regulatory, Product Compliance, Planning, Finance, and external service providers to optimize import processes and reduce clearance delays.
• Lead shipment exception management and critical issue resolution to minimize supply chain disruptions and customer impact.
• Develop reporting tools, dashboards, and operational insights to improve transparency, accountability, and performance management.
• Lead root cause analysis and corrective action initiatives to standardize processes, mitigate compliance risk, and improve operational outcomes.
• Resolve complex customs and supply chain challenges by balancing compliance, operational, and business objectives.
• Serve as a trusted advisor and resource for stakeholders and team members, leading projects and building consensus on customs and trade compliance matters.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Paid time off.
• 401(k) plan with employee and company contribution opportunities.
• Life, disability, and accident insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• May be eligible for performance-based incentive compensation, including cash bonuses and/or long-term incentives.
• Professional development and career opportunities.

What This Job Offers

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