Trade Compliance Specialist

Kuraray America • Pasadena, TX

4d • Hybrid

About The Position

Kuraray America, Inc. is seeking a Trade Compliance Specialist to support and execute its U.S. trade compliance program, primarily focusing on import and export compliance. The role is a key individual-contributor and subject-matter-expert position responsible for managing day-to-day compliance processes, partnering cross-functionally, and continuously improving trade compliance operations. It provides functional leadership without direct reports and collaborates with KAI business units and global Kuraray entities. This is a hybrid role requiring attendance twice a week.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Business, International Trade, or a related field; equivalent education, certifications, and experience will be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in import, export, trade compliance, customs brokerage, logistics, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. trade regulations and compliance requirements, including customs, import/export controls, classification, and trade documentation.
• Experience working with customs brokers, government agencies, and trade compliance systems such as ACE.
• Ability to assess risk, solve complex problems, and implement practical compliance solutions that support business objectives.
• Success building relationships and collaborating across functions, including Logistics, Procurement, Customer Service, Operations, and external business partners.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to influence decisions, provide training, and communicate regulatory requirements to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and drive results in a dynamic business environment.
• Must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting Free Trade Agreements, Foreign Trade Zones, bonded warehousing, duty drawback, post-entry amendments, or duty optimization initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Kuraray America’s primary trade compliance resource, providing guidance and support for import and export compliance across multiple business units.
• Lead execution and continuous improvement of trade compliance processes, policies, and internal controls to ensure compliance with U.S. customs and export regulations.
• Identify compliance risks, conduct audits and assessments, and implement corrective actions to strengthen operational controls.
• Monitor changes in global trade regulations and translate regulatory developments into practical business guidance and action plans.
• Partner with Logistics, Procurement, Customer Service, and other stakeholders to embed trade compliance requirements into day-to-day operations.
• Manage relationships with customs brokers, government agencies, and external service providers to support efficient and compliant cross-border operations.
• Identify cost-reduction and efficiency opportunities through duty savings initiatives, trade agreement utilization, process enhancements, and automation.
• Provide training, develop best practices, and foster a culture of compliance and accountability across the enterprise.
• Travel 5% of the time.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package with base pay and an annual incentive tied to individual, corporate, and team performance.
• Robust healthcare package.
• Wellness reimbursements.
• Three weeks of paid time off.
• Ten company holidays.
• Paid parental leave.
• Education reimbursement.
• Matching 401(k) plan.

What This Job Offers

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