Job Description
Customs Compliance Specialist
47907
5/7/25
Southco, Inc.

About the role

In this role, you will have the ability to work independently and serve as the subject matter expert for the organization.  The key responsibilities of this position include the establishment, deployment and implementation of procedures to ensure that materials, goods and products are imported and exported in compliance with the applicable government regulations and company standards.  Serving as the key point of contact to inquiries or notices from regional export/import authorities as well as Southco business units, legal department, shipping locations and external parties.

What you will be doing

  • Lead and conduct entity audits to determine export/import compliance and implement improvement projects including but not limited to Markings, Country of Origin, and Harmonized Parts Classification.
  • Lead search initiatives for duty reduction opportunities on Misclassification of Parts and Customs Rulings.
  • Develop and implement risk assessments/gap analysis on International Trade issues within each region/country in which Southco has legal entities.
  • Track performance of Customs service providers, compliance programs and savings opportunities through KPI's for monthly reporting.
  • Disciplined usage of SAP GTS module and adherence to Southco's compliance standards and specifications.
  • Develop procedures, training modules and assessment programs to identify defects, develop solutions and coordinate improvement implementation.
  • Research and provide technical assistance in interpretation of laws/regulations, product description, harmonized tariff codes, country of origin and for the resolution of all import/export compliance issues for the region/country.

How you will be making an impact

You will have responsibility for the coordination and completion of all government, regulatory and compliance documents for all of Southco's legal business entities within the Americas region.  In your role, you will partner with employees to ensure that we have disciplined usage and application of SAP Global Trade Services (GTS) System, Harmonized Tariff System and adherence to Southco's compliance standards and specifications.  You will be able to impact the financial results of the company by your ability to achieve cost savings associated with import/export through continuous improvements.

About you

  • BA or BS Degree in Logistics/International Trade, Supply Chain or Finance/Accounting preferred, or equivalent level of related work experience.
  • Expert knowledge in international trade regulations for USA, minimum 10 years required.  
  • Expert knowledge in international trade regulations for Mexico preferred. 
  • Minimum of 5 years’ experience required in identifying, assigning and reviewing rulings of HTS and Country of Origin rules and regulations.  
  • Knowledge of SAP ERP preferred, Excel required.
  • Experience in leading and participating in import/export audits and CTPAT audits is required.
  • Certified Custom’s Broker for USA preferred

How will we reward you

Southco provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits program.  A few highlights include medical, dental and vision programs for you and your eligible dependents. 

  • Competitive pay and development opportunities
  • 10 company holidays, 2 floating holidays, 3 weeks of Paid Time Off to start with regular increases based on years of service
  • Health benefits for you and your dependents will become effective on your start date
  • Company-paid short and long term disability, life insurance, and mental health resources
  • Exceptional retirement savings programs: 
    • 401(k) Plan with 15 core fund options plus other allocation options
    • Company match of $.50 on the dollar up to 6% of your total contributions up to applicable IRS limits, and a 2% company-paid contribution on your total compensation
    • Company provided retirement income via Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), an opportunity to share in the success of the Company
Information at a Glance

Southco is the leading global manufacturer of Engineered Access Hardware with manufacturing and engineering facilities in the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific regions. From quality and performance to aesthetics and ergonomics, we know small touches make a big difference. The people of Southco are passionate about connecting with our customers to create innovative engineered access hardware solutions aimed at enhancing the "touch points" of our customers' products. With unrivaled global supply and support, innovative products and dedicated people, Southco provides customers throughout the world with the broadest line of high quality Access Hardware Solutions on the market today for applications in the Networking, Telecommunications, Computer, Automotive, Aerospace, Mass Transit, Off-Highway/Construction, RV/Caravan, Industrial Machinery, Marine and HVAC industries.

Benefits we offer our employees:
·    Generous time off – starting at 3 weeks of annualized PTO (first year is prorated based on start date), 9 company holidays plus 2 floating holidays
·    401(k) Savings and Investment Plan – Company makes automatic 2% contribution of eligible pay plus matching contributions of 50% up to the first 6% of eligible pay you contribute.
·    Employee Stock Ownership Plan valued at approximately 4-6% of eligible earnings which includes dividend payments after 3 year vesting period
·    Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) beginning first day of employment; company funds a portion of HSA for high deductible health plans
·    Company paid Life & Disability Insurance including: Short term, Long Term, and Life
·    Great Tuition Reimbursement program to support undergraduate or graduate programs available to all employees

You may apply for this position online by selecting the Apply now button. Southco provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Southco complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.  This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.