A leading Pittsburgh-based legal team is seeking a detail-oriented and knowledgeable Customs Specialist to support attorneys in matters involving customs regulations, trade compliance, import law, and international trade. This role offers the opportunity to work with a sophisticated legal practice focused on customs enforcement, compliance, and regulatory strategy.
Location: Pittsburgh, PA (Hybrid)
Job Summary
The ideal candidate will have expertise in customs classification, valuation, duty drawback, Free Trade Agreements (including USMCA), in-bond transfers, and trade compliance audits. You will work closely with attorneys on matters involving customs enforcement, including CF-28/CF-29 responses, Customs audits, Protests, Prior Disclosures, and related administrative proceedings.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct research and analysis on customs regulations, trade laws, compliance requirements, Presidential Announcements, and CSMS Announcements
Assist attorneys in advising clients on tariff classification, customs valuation, country-of-origin determinations, and C-TPAT applications and management
Prepare and review customs documentation, including import support declarations, rulings, and licensing requirements
Support clients during customs audits, investigations, and penalty mitigation strategies
Monitor changes to customs laws, free trade agreements, and trade policy developments
Collaborate with attorneys and clients to ensure compliance with CBP and international trade laws
Assist in litigation and administrative proceedings involving customs and trade disputes, including Protests, Prior Disclosures, audits, and CF-28 responses
Maintain detailed records and support preparation of reports for regulatory agencies and internal compliance programs
Qualifications & Skills
Bachelor’s degree in International Trade, Business, Law, or related field; customs broker license or legal experience preferred, or equivalent on-the-job experience
3+ years of experience in customs compliance, trade law, or a related field
Strong knowledge of U.S. customs laws, the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), and import regulations
Experience with customs filings, duty drawback, and classification rulings
Excellent analytical, research, and writing skills
Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and legal research tools
Preferred Qualifications
Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) or three years of experience working for U.S. Customs as an import specialist
Experience with antidumping and countervailing duty matters
Familiarity with global trade compliance programs (C-TPAT, ITAR, EAR)
Experience with Export Controls, Sanctions, and Free Trade Zones
Additional Requirements
Language Skills: Ability to interpret technical procedures, regulations, and professional materials; skilled at presenting information clearly to attorneys, clients, and stakeholders. Reasoning Ability: Ability to solve practical problems and interpret written, oral, and diagram-based instructions. Computer Skills: Proficiency with internet-based tools, word processing, and related software used by international trade groups. Physical Demands: Must be able to lift files/boxes weighing 25+ lbs (reasonable accommodations available). Work Environment: Professional office setting; reasonable accommodations available.
Featured Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) and pension plan
Paid maternity and paternity leave
Disability insurance
Commuter benefits
Interested?
For more information, reach out to: 📩 Chelsey Haibeck – chelsey.haibeck@gogpac.com 📞 605.501.4307
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations. GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.
