Tactical Buyer - Customs & Trades

Tactical Buyer – Customs & Trade Compliance Specialist (Hybrid)

Location: Chicago, IL or West Branch, IA
Schedule: Hybrid (3 days onsite / 2 days remote)
Salary: $60,000 – $75,000 + 5% bonus target

Overview

We are seeking a Tactical Buyer – Customs & Trade Compliance Specialist to support a global sourcing organization. This role is ideal for a hands-on professional with strong expertise in U.S. customs regulations and international trade compliance, combined with tactical procurement experience.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring compliant, efficient import operations while supporting sourcing and procurement activities across a global supply chain.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for U.S. customs, tariffs, and trade compliance within the sourcing function
• Oversee customs processes and coordinate with third-party brokers to ensure compliance
• Monitor and interpret tariffs, duties, and HS classifications, translating impact to internal stakeholders
• Conduct tariff and cost impact analysis related to sourcing and supplier contracts
• Track and communicate changes in trade regulations and assess business implications
• Support tactical procurement activities, including:
  • SAP purchase order (PO) creation
  • Supplier onboarding and coordination
  • Contract support and documentation
• Collaborate cross-functionally with sourcing, supply chain, and global teams

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in customs, trade compliance, or import/export operations
• Strong knowledge of U.S. customs regulations, tariffs, duties, and HS codes
• Hands-on experience managing or working with customs brokers
• Experience in tactical procurement or purchasing support
• Ability to translate complex regulatory requirements into business impact
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in manufacturing, heavy industry, automotive, or energy sectors
• Familiarity with SAP or similar ERP systems
• Experience supporting global sourcing or supply chain operations

What Success Looks Like

• Ownership of U.S. customs compliance processes with minimal oversight
• Effective coordination across internal teams and external brokers
• Clear communication of regulatory impacts to sourcing and leadership
• Seamless support of procurement activities alongside compliance responsibilities

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Hands-on customs and trade compliance expert (not general supply chain)
• Self-starter who can build and improve processes
• Adaptable, proactive, and detail-oriented
• Experience working across diverse materials or global supply chains

Why This Role?

• Opportunity to serve as the key U.S. customs subject matter expert within a global organization
• High visibility role with cross-functional impact
• Balanced mix of compliance ownership and procurement execution