What are the responsibilities and job description for the Customs Compliance Specialist position at Blue Marble?
At Blue Marble, our mission is to create purposeful products that inspire a love of learning in children and empower parents to raise thoughtful, confident kids. If you envision working for an award-winning company with a mission you can believe in, a playful and energetic culture, a talented team of coworkers, and a bright future, look to Blue Marble!
We are seeking a Customs Compliance Specialist to manage and optimize our organization’s import activities in compliance with U.S. and international regulations. This position is responsible for product classification, duty mitigation strategies, and continuous process improvement in customs operations.
Primary Responsibilities
- Be the go-to expert for customs questions, collaborating across teams.
- Accurately classify goods using HTS codes and ECCN where applicable.
- Maintain up-to-date product classification data and document rationales.
- Ensure compliance with U.S. Customs, USMCA, CTPAT, and other applicable government regulations.
- Monitor and interpret changes in trade legislation and adjust policies accordingly.
- Prepare and submit documentation for imports and exports.
- Manage customs entry-writing activities, broker performance, and regulatory audits.
- Participate in legal tariff engineering strategies to minimize duty exposure.
- Participate in cost-saving initiatives such as First Sale Rule.
- Analyze data for duty mitigation strategies and present it to stakeholders.
- Develop and implement SOPs and training materials.
- Educate internal stakeholders on customs and trade compliance topics.
- Ensure proper customs valuation methods are applied in accordance with WTO and U.S. Customs regulations.
Desired Qualifications
- Regulatory awareness including how to stay current on trade laws and regulations.
- Project and time management to juggle multiple priorities.
- Problem solving and initiative to find creative solutions to import challenges.
- Attention to detail to ensure accurate information is being provided to all parties.
Required Education and Experience
- 1. Bachelor's degree in International Business, Supply Chain, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
- 2. 3–7 years of experience in customs compliance, classification, and import/export operations.
- 3. Strong understanding of international trade regulations, Incoterms, and PGA (Participating Government Agencies).
- 4. Proficient in Microsoft Office
Preferred Education and Experience
- 1. Experience with USMCA certifications, FTAs, and duty drawback processes.
- 2. Experience presenting compliance reports and mitigation strategies to executive leadership.
- 3. Experience with Netsuite, or similar ERP.
- 4. U.S. Customs Broker License or Certified Customs Specialist designation.
- 5. Familiarity with using CROSS, ACE or AES tools
Blue Marble is proud to offer a generous and comprehensive benefits package, including:
- 401(k) with company match
- Health insurance with multiple plans to choose from
- Health savings account
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible work schedule
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
Workplace Arrangement
In-person collaboration is a key aspect of Blue Marble's work culture. This role has been designated as hybrid, with three days a week expected at corporate headquarters in Ashland, Oregon. This arrangement allows for a balance between in-person collaboration and remote work flexibility.
Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties to meet the organization's needs.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Blue Marble is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.
