Inter IKEA Group · 2 days ago
Customs Operations Specialist
King of Prussia, PA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid Level
3+ years expInter IKEA Group is dedicated to creating a better everyday life for many people by offering a wide range of well-designed home furnishing and food products. As a Customs Operations Specialist, you will ensure smooth and compliant cross-border operations, focusing on customs compliance, data analysis, and stakeholder collaboration.
Furniture
Responsibilities
Prepare and validate customs entries using IKEA’s in-house systems, coordinating with brokers to ensure accurate and timely submissions
Monitor import and export clearance processes, ensuring each transaction meets local and international compliance requirements
Review import documentation and data to confirm accuracy and maintain full regulatory compliance
Manage and support FTZ-related import operations, ensuring accurate entry and admission into FTZ facilities
Coordinate with internal teams, brokers, and FTZ operators to guarantee timely and compliant filings
Track and reconcile FTZ shipment movements, proactively resolving discrepancies and maintaining precise records for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
Contribute to continuous improvements in FTZ shipment handling and reporting processes
Analyze customs data to identify errors, risks, or opportunities for efficiency
Drive corrective actions to maintain accuracy in all customs declarations
Collaborate with colleagues to enhance processes, update SOPs, and implement best practices that support IKEA’s global trade strategy
Partner closely with customs brokers, logistics providers, authorities, and internal IKEA teams to deliver a high level of service
Provide operational guidance and support to local markets throughout North and South America
Build strong relationships and foster alignment between all parties involved in the import process
Manage Importer Security Filing (ISF) compliance according to U.S. Customs requirements
Stay current on trade regulations, ensuring IKEA’s internal processes remain compliant and efficient
Support continuous monitoring and improvement of regulatory procedures and documentation
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience) in Supply Chain, Logistics, International Business, or a related field
Minimum 3 years of experience in customs brokerage, import operations, or a similar environment
U.S. Customs Brokerage License is a plus
Customs Entry Preparation & Filing: Proficient in preparing, validating, and managing import entries to ensure accuracy and compliance
Import/Export Documentation: Skilled in reviewing invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and certificates of origin
FTZ Shipment Processing: Understanding of FTZ admissions, operations, and CBP compliance requirements
Regulatory Compliance: Strong grasp of customs laws, Free Trade Agreements (e.g., USMCA), and Importer Security Filing (ISF) standards
Broker & Stakeholder Coordination: Effective in managing communication with customs brokers, suppliers, and internal partners
Systems Proficiency: Experience with ERP or customs management tools (SAP GTS, Descartes, etc.) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills (pivot tables, formulas)
Post Entry & Audit Processes: Ability to perform post-entry audits, corrections, and maintain detailed compliance records
Process Improvement: Analytical mindset to identify process gaps and implement smarter, more efficient ways of working
Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail in every aspect of work
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
Clear and professional communication skills, both written and verbal, with global stakeholders
Exceptional organizational and time management skills to handle multiple priorities in a high-volume environment
A collaborative mindset, thriving in diverse, cross-functional, and cross-cultural teams
Adaptable to changing business needs, priorities, and trade regulations
Demonstrates accountability, integrity, and ownership of outcomes
Maintains a continuous learning mindset, staying informed about customs and trade compliance developments
Preferred
Experience with FTZ processes, entry writing, tariff classification, or post-entry corrections preferred
Company
Inter IKEA Group
ONE BRAND, MANY COMPANIES AND MANY, MANY PEOPLE We’re a diverse group of down-to-earth, straightforward people with a passion for home furnishing.
10001+ employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageCompany data provided by crunchbase