Trade Compliance Classification Specialist

Location: Houston, TX 77024
Duration: 6-Month Contract
Schedule: Full-Time, 40 Hours/Week
Pay Rate: $44.50/hour

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Trade Compliance Classification Specialist to support a leading organization in maintaining compliance with U.S. import and export regulations. This role will focus on HTS, HTSUS, Schedule B, and ECCN classifications while partnering with internal stakeholders to ensure accurate product classification and adherence to trade compliance requirements.

The ideal candidate will have 3-5+ years of international trade compliance experience, strong classification expertise, and the ability to effectively communicate with cross-functional teams. This position requires a proactive professional who can manage multiple priorities and provide exceptional support to internal customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide guidance and compliance support to Regional and Business Unit International Trade Compliance Representatives (ITCRs) regarding HTS, Schedule B, and ECCN classifications.
• Review product descriptions, technical drawings, and material specifications to determine accurate HTS/HTSUS and Schedule B classifications.
• Prioritize and manage urgent classification requests, obtaining additional information and supporting documentation as needed.
• Interpret Customs rulings, explanatory notes, and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance with import and export control laws.
• Maintain and update product classification databases and spreadsheets.
• Collaborate with ERP teams to update product master records and classification data.
• Support the development, implementation, and maintenance of trade compliance classification programs and processes.
• Assist with additional trade compliance initiatives and projects as required.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Logistics, Transportation, International Trade, or a related field preferred.
• Relevant professional experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
• Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) designation preferred but not required.

Experience

• Minimum of 3-5+ years of international trade compliance experience with a strong focus on classification.
• Hands-on experience performing U.S. HTS, Schedule B, and ECCN classifications.
• Working knowledge of U.S. government agencies and regulations, including:
  • Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)

Preferred Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs).
• Extensive knowledge of the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).
• Experience using section and chapter notes to support classifications.
• Ability to develop and document defendable classification rationales.
• Strong knowledge of Export Administration Regulations (EAR).
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and/or Google Sheets skills, including data review, manipulation, and auditing.
• Experience with Global Trade Management (GTM) systems.
• Knowledge of Power BI reporting and analytics tools.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.

Why Apply?

• Competitive pay at $44.50/hour
• Full-time schedule (40 hours per week)
• Opportunity to work with a highly collaborative trade compliance team
• Gain exposure to complex import/export classification activities and regulatory compliance initiatives

Apply today if you have a strong background in trade compliance classification and are looking for your next contract opportunity in Houston, TX.