Trade Compliance Specialist

Trade Compliance Specialist

At Okuma America, we are committed to delivering industry-leading CNC machine tool solutions while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory compliance and operational excellence. The Trade Compliance Specialist plays a critical role in supporting our import and export compliance programs, helping ensure products move efficiently across global markets while minimizing risk and supporting exceptional customer service.

This position serves as a key resource for trade compliance activities, classification processes, export controls, documentation management, and cross-functional training initiatives. The role also supports Quality Management System (QMS) activities and corporate reporting requirements, contributing to a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

The identification of Essential Job Functions does not display an exhaustive list of all duties that may be assigned to this position, nor does it restrict the related work that may be assigned to this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

How You'll Make an Impact

- Support Okuma's import and export compliance program, ensuring adherence to U.S. customs, export control, and international trade regulations.

- Classify imported and exported products using HTS, ECCN, Schedule B, and other applicable trade requirements.

- Partner with customs brokers and internal stakeholders to facilitate the efficient movement of goods, resolve compliance issues, and maintain required documentation.

- Conduct export compliance activities, including end-user screening, export record maintenance, ECCN management, and regulatory reviews.

- Monitor regulatory changes, communicate compliance requirements, and assist with training employees on import and export processes.

- Support Quality Management System (QMS) initiatives, including ISO and Kaizen training, document control, continuous improvement activities, and corporate reporting.

- Identify compliance risks, recommend corrective actions, and contribute to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

Education & Experience

- Associate's degree in Business, Supply Chain, International Trade, Logistics, or a related field preferred.

- Experience supporting import/export operations, customs compliance, trade regulations, or related business functions preferred.

- Ability to work independently on assigned tasks while accepting direction and feedback.

- Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external business partners.

Technical Knowledge

- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.

- Working knowledge of:

HTSUS and Schedule B classification methodologies

- U.S. customs processes and regulations

- Customs rulings and Anti-Dumping Duties (ADD)

- U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR)

- Export classifications including EAR99 and Category 2 controls with emphasis on:

2B001

- 2B201

- 2B991

- ITAR requirements and intellectual property considerations.

The Okuma Difference

At Okuma, innovation is more than a goal. It is part of who we are. As one of the world's leading manufacturers of CNC machine tools, we invest in advanced technology, employee development, and strong customer relationships. Our team members enjoy a collaborative environment where knowledge sharing, continuous learning, and professional growth are encouraged.

When you join Okuma, you become part of an organization that values excellence, teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to helping both employees and customers succeed. You'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on workplace safety, employee well-being, and organizational success.

Supporting Your Success

At Okuma, we invest in our employees' well-being and professional growth. Our comprehensive benefits package includes structured bonus opportunities, a pension plan, 401(k), medical, dental, and vision coverage, company-paid disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, wellness and gym reimbursement programs, tuition reimbursement, generous paid time off, paid holidays, parental leave, and flexible scheduling options.

Equal Opportunity & Accommodations

Okuma America Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. Qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to any status protected by applicable law.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to participate in the application process and perform the essential functions of the position.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or qualifications required. Responsibilities may change based on business needs.

Qualifications

Experience/Training/Education
•    Bachelor’s degree in business, international trade, engineering, or related field

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
General: 
•    Knowledge of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), Office of Foreign Assets (OFAC), Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR), Non-US export controls, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and US Customs Regulations. 
•    Critical thinking, problem solving, analytical skills, multi-tasking and attention to detail 
•    Must effectively prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities
•    Ability to work independently or collaboratively

Technical:  
•    Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, SharePoint and ERP/MRP software

Communication: 
•    Ability to write/develop detailed documentation and reports
•    Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as exceptional listening skills
•    Exceptional ability to speak and write effectively in a business environment
•    Exceptional ability to ask necessary questions

Math & Reasoning: 
•    Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
•    Ability to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form
•    Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and willingness to adapt to change and take initiative
Physical and Environmental Elements
Physical Demands: 
•    Ability to sit continuously for the majority of the normal work shift, and stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms for a small portion of the normal work shift
•    Ability to lift and carry, push, or pull up to 30 pounds 
•    Ability to stoop, crouch and reach 
•    Ability to talk or hear continuously
•    Ability to see clearly to do all work-related tasks (clear or corrected vision at 20 inches or less) 
•    Finger dexterity is required frequently for over 3/4 of the normal work shift including operating a phone, computer/ electronic equipment

Work Environment: 
•    The majority of the position’s functions are performed in the office environment with standard equipment and moderate noise levels (examples: computers, printers, fax, copiers, light traffic, and phone)
•    A small fraction of the position’s functions may be performed in the Okuma warehouse/ showroom. This role may interact with the production/warehouse environment. Thus, the employee may work in an open warehouse area where temperatures may be subject to outdoor conditions in terms of cold and heat.  There is exposure to various tools and equipment as well as forklift operations and corresponding noise levels

Special Requirements
•    Maintain annual OSHA safety certifications as required by job duties