About the Optimas:
Optimas is a global distributor of integrated supply chain solutions, and engineering support focused on delivering fasteners, components, industrial and safety supplies to our diverse customers around the world. Our local, on-the-ground teams understand the nuances of every community we serve. This allows us to adapt with our customers and partners as needs evolve, leveraging our footprint to remain at your side while providing a highly personalized level of service and support no matter where you find yourself around the globe.
To learn more, please visit our website http://www.optimas.com
Position overview:
We are seeking an experienced Trade Specialist to join our team. This role is responsible for leading complex Trade Operations and Trade Compliance activities, ensuring efficient, compliant, and cost-effective import and export operations. The ideal candidate will collaborate with internal stakeholders, customs brokers, and logistics providers to support regulatory compliance, optimize trade processes, and drive continuous operational improvement
Main responsibilities:
- Lead Trade Operations and Trade Compliance activities, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, company policies, and business requirements.
- Lead and support customs compliance initiatives, including tariff classification, HTS harmonization, USMCA qualification, IMMEX compliance, customs valuation, and other international trade regulations.
- Manage and support Annex 24 inventory control activities, Annex 30 compliance requirements, inventory reconciliation, IMMEX regularizations, and other customs compliance processes.
- Coordinate complex import and export operations by collaborating with customs brokers, freight forwarders, carriers, suppliers, warehouses, and internal stakeholders to ensure operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
- Monitor, analyze, and support mitigation of customs, operational, and compliance risks, identifying opportunities for process improvements, corrective actions, and cost optimization.
- Develop, maintain, and analyze Trade Operations and Trade Compliance metrics, KPIs, and reporting to support business decisions and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Participate in internal and external audits, regulatory reviews, customs inquiries, and compliance assessments, providing technical support and documentation as required.
- Provide technical guidance, coaching, and knowledge sharing to Analysts while supporting cross-functional development across the Trade organization.
- Collaborate with leadership and cross-functional teams on business initiatives, system implementations, operational transitions, and strategic Trade projects.
- Maintain current knowledge of customs regulations, international trade requirements, and industry best practices, supporting the implementation of regulatory changes across the organization.
- Support business continuity by providing cross-functional coverage across Trade Operations and Trade Compliance activities based on business priorities and operational requirements.
- Perform additional Trade Operations and Trade Compliance responsibilities as assigned to support business objectives and organizational needs.
- Lead the evaluation and implementation of customs regulations, regulatory changes, and compliance initiatives affecting the company's international trade operations.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in Import/Export Operations, Customs Compliance, or International Trade, preferably within an IMMEX/maquiladora environment.
- Solid knowledge of Mexican Customs regulations, IMMEX, VAT Certification, and international trade processes.
- Experience with tariff classification, HTS harmonization, customs documentation, and customs broker coordination.
- Experience with Annex 24 inventory control processes. Knowledge of Annex 30 is a plus.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including Pivot Tables, formulas, and data analysis. Experience with Macros is a plus.
- Experience working with ERP systems and import/export software (NetSuite preferred).
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication skills in English and Spanish.
- Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, external stakeholders, and provide technical guidance to team members.
- Demonstrated flexibility to support both Trade Operations and Trade Compliance activities based on business priorities.
To Staffing and Recruiting Agencies: Optimas does not accept unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies. Optimas is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes or applications and explicitly reserve its right to contact candidates presented in such unsolicited resume or application.
Optimas OE Solutions provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Optimas OE Solutions complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
