Trade Compliance Specialist III

Kirkhill Inc. • Brea, CA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Trade Compliance Specialist III is responsible for administering and supporting the Company's export and import compliance program while exercising independent judgment on complex trade compliance matters. Responsibilities include interpretation of U.S. and international trade regulations, oversight of import/export transactions, government licensing, trade compliance recordkeeping, cross-functional coordination, mentoring junior personnel, and supporting continuous compliance improvements. May stop and hold transactions pending compliance review.

Requirements

• Strong computer skills including ability to transact orders in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) information systems, perform spreadsheet calculations, and quickly learn new software tools.
• Advanced knowledge of ITAR, EAR, OFAC, Customs Regulations, FTR, HTS classification, duty analysis, and anti-boycott regulations.
• Experience managing customs brokers, freight forwarders, and international logistics providers.
• Strong analytical, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Advanced proficiency with ERP/MRP systems, Microsoft Excel, and trade compliance software.
• Ability to interpret regulations and independently resolve complex trade compliance issues.
• Bachelor's degree in business, International Trade, Supply Chain, Engineering, Law, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5–8 years of progressively responsible trade compliance experience in aerospace, defense, or another regulated manufacturing environment.
• Strong import compliance experience including U.S. Customs regulations, HTS classification, and duty analysis.
• Experience with ITAR/EAR export licensing, license applications, exemptions/exceptions, and export authorization management.
• Working knowledge of USMCA qualification, certification, and origin requirements.
• Cross-border U.S./Mexico trade experience.
• Experience with ERP/MRP systems and trade compliance software.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with Engineering, Shipping, Supply Chain, Sales, and Operations.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required.
• Experience supporting Mexico manufacturing operations (IMMEX preferred).
• Experience with OCR EASE or similar trade compliance software.
• Professional trade compliance certifications are preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Support the Trade Compliance Manager in administering site export and import compliance programs and act as liaison during the Manager's absence.
• Analyze complex import/export transactions for compliance with ITAR, EAR, OFAC, Customs Regulations, FTR, and anti-boycott regulations.
• Review restricted party screening, end-user/end-use reviews, Know Your Counterparty documentation, and red flag analysis.
• Prepare, submit, and manage export licenses, permits, ATA Carnets, and other government authorizations.
• Perform HTS classification, ECCN review, customs valuation, country of origin determinations, and duty analysis.
• Review and approve international shipping documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, air waybills, INCOTERMS®, HTS classifications, ECCNs, and export classifications.
• Manage customs brokers and freight forwarders, including performance, issue resolution, and compliance oversight.
• Support USMCA qualification, certification, and origin requirements.
• Support cross-border U.S./Mexico trade activities and Mexico manufacturing operations.
• Analyze contracts, purchase orders, and sales orders for trade compliance risk.
• Produce reports using ERP/MRP and trade compliance systems.
• Partner with Engineering, Shipping, Supply Chain, Sales, Operations, Purchasing, Logistics, Contracts, and Production Control.
• Monitor trade compliance recordkeeping and assist with audits, procedure updates, and regulatory changes.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to Trade Compliance Administrators and other team members.
• Maintain the highest ethical standards and perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• All successful candidates must submit to post offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen and background check as a condition of employment.

What This Job Offers

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