Import/Export Trade Coordinator

•

FTZ ComplianceLocation:

St. Charles, IL

•near

DuPage Airport Salary:

$75,000

•100,000, depending on experience

Hire Type:

Direct Hire Reason for

Opening:

Growth / Newly Created Position Sterling Engineering is seeking an experienced Import/Export Trade Coordinator to support a growing international trade compliance team. This position will coordinate import and export activities with a strong emphasis on Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) compliance, U.S. Customs regulations, documentation accuracy, and continuous improvement.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced trade compliance professional who understands both the regulatory and operational sides of international logistics. The ideal candidate brings a strong combination of hands-on import/export operations and trade compliance expertise. Experience with FTZ operations is particularly important, along with the ability to review documentation, work with brokers and freight forwarders, understand customs requirements, and identify opportunities to strengthen compliance processes. The role requires advanced knowledge of FTZs, HTS, U.S. Customs requirements, freight bidding, valuation, and Country of Origin determination. Key ResponsibilitiesCoordinate import/export transactions and ensure compliance with Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) requirementsMonitor U.S. Customs regulations, international trade requirements, and regulatory changesReview and improve SOPs related to EEI filings, Country of Origin, HTS classifications, Schedule B, and ECCNReview import, export, and FTZ documentation for accuracy and regulatory complianceValidate Country of Origin, valuation, and OGA filingsMaintain accurate customs records in accordance with CBP and Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR) requirementsCoordinate with freight forwarders, customs brokers, suppliers, and internal departments to ensure timely customs clearanceSupport complex import/export transactions, routing requirements, and valuation activitiesManage and maintain relationships with freight forwarders, customs brokers, carriers, and international suppliersSolicit and evaluate carrier RFPs/freight bids based on cost, delivery, and service requirementsSupport and improve FTZ and other trade compliance programsServe as a key contact for C-TPAT activitiesDevelop KPIs and performance reporting related to import/export operationsPrepare reports and presentations for leadershipParticipate in compliance audits, process improvements, and special projectsThe position requires significant coordination across internal departments and external partners while maintaining accurate, compliant international trade transactions. Qualifications5+ years of experience in trade compliance, customs brokerage, or import/export operationsBachelor's degree in International Business, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field OR 5+ years of relevant import/export subject matter expertiseStrong knowledge of:

Foreign Trade Zones (FTZ)U.S. Customs regulationsImport/export lawsHarmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS)Country of OriginCustoms valuationFreight bidding/RFPsExperience reviewing customs and international shipping documentationExperience working directly with customs brokers, freight forwarders, carriers, and international suppliersExperience with trade compliance and ERP systems; Integration Point and QAD experience are a plusStrong Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint skillsExperience with KPI reporting and compliance auditingStrong attention to detail, problem-solving, and organizational skillsAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentStrong written and verbal communication skills Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.