What are the responsibilities and job description for the Trade & Customs Operations Lead (Manager/Sr. Manager) position at Compal?
About Compal
Compal Electronics is a global leader in electronics design and manufacturing, partnering with the world’s most innovative technology companies. As Compal expands its U.S. manufacturing footprint, we are building next-generation AI server and high-performance computing systems that power hyperscale data centers and advanced artificial intelligence applications.
Our Austin operation will play a critical role in supporting leading-edge AI infrastructure programs in North America.
🔹 Position Overview
We are seeking a Trade & Customs Operations Lead (Manager / Sr. Manager) to oversee and optimize global trade operations across our growing U.S. manufacturing footprint. This role will serve as the primary point of contact for trade compliance and cross-border operations, ensuring efficient, compliant movement of goods while supporting business growth.
You will partner closely with Legal, Tax, Finance, Supply Chain, and external customs brokers to drive compliance, mitigate risk, and enable seamless global operations in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
🔹 Key Responsibilities
Trade Operations & Compliance
- Serve as the primary point of contact for all trade and customs operations
- Oversee day-to-day import/export activities, ensuring accurate documentation and compliance
- Classify products using Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and Export Control Classification Number (ECCN)
- Ensure compliance with U.S. Customs regulations and Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
- Monitor and respond to government inquiries, including root cause analysis and resolution
Audits, Risk & Governance
- Conduct compliance assessments and monitor adherence to trade regulations
- Support internal and external audits, including post-entry reviews
- Develop and implement corrective actions for compliance gaps
- Maintain documentation and ensure audit readiness
Licensing & Documentation
- Coordinate and manage export/import licenses and permits
- Ensure proper documentation and recordkeeping for cross-border shipments
Program & Process Optimization
- Drive operational efficiencies and continuous improvement within trade programs
- Support global trade initiatives including:
- Trade preference programs
- New Product Introduction (NPI)
- Country expansion strategies
- Build and maintain strong cross-functional relationships across global teams
🔹 Qualifications
Required
- 8 years of experience in global trade compliance, with a strong focus on U.S. regulations
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, Economics, Finance, or related field
- Hands-on experience with:
- HTS classification
- ECCN classification
- Cross-border trade compliance processes
- Strong knowledge of:
- U.S. Customs Regulations
- Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
- Proven ability to work independently in a fast-paced, cross-functional, global environment
- Willingness to travel as needed
Preferred
- Advanced degree in Business, Law, Economics, Finance, or related discipline
- Experience with USMCA / IMMEX and Mexico trade compliance
- Experience managing export classification programs
- Customs Broker License
- 3 years of experience working with the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS)
🔹 Why Join Compal
- Be part of a rapidly growing advanced manufacturing organization
- Play a critical role in enabling global trade and supply chain operations
- Work in a high-impact, cross-functional leadership role
- Opportunity to shape and scale trade compliance programs in the U.S.