Customs Clearance Specialist

Gotion Inc. is based in Silicon Valley, CA, currently building a Manufacturing facility in Manteno, IL and has R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan and Europe. We innovate in the next generation electric vehicle and energy storage technologies (lithium batteries and related systems) with the aim to accelerate electrified transportation and achieve sustainable development. Gotion is powered by a leading power battery technology company that provides solutions for vehicles including the world's first mass commercial e-bus route.

Gotion is a career destination - we are not simply attempting to just fill another job, but to pursue a dream of global green energy together! We offer outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting and challenging working environment. Everyone is highly valued and plays a vital role in the growth of our organization.

Job Title: Customs Clearance & Trade Compliance Specialist
Department: Supply Chain / Global Trade Compliance
Reports To: FTZ Lead

Job Summary

The Customs Clearance & Trade Compliance Specialist supports the company’s international trade operations by managing customs documentation, coordinating entry filings with customs brokers, and ensuring compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.

This role focuses on the regulatory and documentation aspects of import and export transactions, working closely with the internal Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) operations team to ensure accurate customs filings and proper documentation for goods entering and exiting the FTZ.

Transportation and freight movement are managed by the logistics team. This position ensures shipments are customs compliant and properly documented for entry and FTZ admission.

Key Responsibilities

Customs Clearance & Broker Coordination

• Coordinate customs entry filings with external customs brokers.
• Review and validate import documentation prior to submission to CBP.
• Ensure accuracy of commercial invoices, packing lists, and entry documentation.
• Monitor entry status and resolve documentation issues impacting customs clearance.
• Coordinate documentation required for in-bond movements and customs entry filings.

Tariff Classification & Trade Compliance

• Classify products using the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).
• Validate tariff classification, country of origin declarations, and customs valuation.
• Maintain customs documentation and entry records in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Monitor regulatory updates impacting imports, exports, and customs compliance.

FTZ Operational Support

• Support FTZ operations by ensuring import documentation supports accurate FTZ admissions.
• Coordinate with FTZ specialists to ensure customs entries align with FTZ inventory records.
• Assist in validating documentation required for FTZ admissions, withdrawals, and zone transfers.
• Support compliance reviews related to FTZ-related customs transactions.

Documentation & Regulatory Compliance

• Prepare and review import and export documentation including:
• Commercial invoices
• Packing lists
• Certificates of origin
• Bills of lading and airway bills
• Import declarations and supporting customs documentation
• Maintain organized customs entry records to support internal reviews, CBP audits, and regulatory compliance.

Internal Collaboration

• Partner with internal teams including supply chain, procurement, finance, and operations to ensure trade compliance requirements are met.
• Provide guidance to internal stakeholders on customs documentation requirements and regulatory procedures.
• Support internal audits and government compliance reviews when required.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve customs documentation workflows and clearance efficiency.
• Assist in developing and implementing internal trade compliance procedures.
• Support ERP or compliance system updates related to international trade transactions.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, International Business, Logistics, or a related field preferred.

Experience

3–7 years of experience in customs compliance, import/export operations, or international trade compliance.

Experience working with customs brokers and supporting customs entry documentation required.

Experience supporting manufacturing environments, high-volume imports, or Foreign Trade Zone operations is strongly preferred.

Technical Skills

• Knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations and import documentation requirements.
• Familiarity with Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification.
• Experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.) or customs documentation platforms.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and documentation management systems.

Core Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and regulatory compliance
• Excellent communication and coordination skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Analytical mindset with strong documentation and reporting capabilities

Preferred Certifications

Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) – preferred but not required
Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)
Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP)

Gotion Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve, cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging, and ensuring equal employment opportunities for all.

We provide equal opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), parental status, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other characteristic protected by law.

At Gotion Inc., we strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.