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Import Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CesiumAstro

Senior Import Compliance Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Import Compliance Manager , to support our global import operations, customs compliance activities, and duty savings initiatives across aerospace programs ...

Forward Air

Import Coordinator - Ocean

Coppell, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

The Import Coordinator - Ocean supports international ocean import operations by assisting with shipment coordination from arrival through inland delivery. They process documentation, track shipment ...

Forward Air

Import Coordinator - Ocean

Coppell, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

The Import Coordinator - Ocean supports international ocean import operations by assisting with shipment coordination from arrival through inland delivery. They process documentation, track shipment ...

Motorola

Import Trade Operations Specialist

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $100K/yr

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

Forward Air Corporation

Import Coordinator - Ocean

Coppell, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

The Import Coordinator - Ocean supports international ocean import operations by assisting with shipment coordination from arrival through inland delivery. They process documentation, track shipment ...

Walker SCM

Import Supervisor

Valley Stream, NY · On-site

$62K - $68K/yr

About Us This position will be responsible for managing day-to-day import operations to ensure efficient and courteous service to customers in the most cost-effective manner possible, following ...

Motorola

Import Trade Operations Specialist

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $100K/yr

Import Trade Operations is responsible for Import declarations, compliance, and procedures aligned to Government Customs requirements. This position is part of the Supply Chain Procurement Team in ...

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Import Operations information

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How much do import operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for import operations in the United States is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an import operator?

An import operator is a professional responsible for managing the movement of goods into a country, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and coordinating logistics. They often work with shipping documents, tracking systems, and may require knowledge of import laws and procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Import Operations Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Import Operations Specialist, you need a thorough understanding of international trade regulations, logistics procedures, and documentation, often supported by a degree in business, supply chain management, or a related field. Familiarity with customs management software, freight tracking systems, and compliance certifications such as CITT or FIATA is highly valuable. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with vendors and regulatory authorities set top performers apart. These abilities ensure smooth and compliant import processes, minimizing delays and optimizing the supply chain.

What are import operations?

Import operations involve managing the process of bringing goods into a country from abroad, including tasks such as coordinating shipments, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and handling documentation. Import operations professionals often work with logistics software and require knowledge of international trade laws to ensure smooth and efficient delivery of goods.

What is the highest salary for import-export?

The highest salaries for import operations roles can reach over $100,000 annually, especially for experienced professionals in senior or managerial positions. Factors such as industry, location, certifications, and years of experience influence earning potential in import-export jobs.

What is the job description of import operations?

Import operations professionals coordinate the movement of goods across borders, ensuring compliance with customs regulations and documentation requirements. They manage logistics, track shipments, and communicate with customs authorities, often using specialized software. Strong organizational skills and knowledge of international trade laws are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Import Operations vs Customs Compliance Specialist?

AspectImport OperationsCustoms Compliance Specialist
Required CredentialsLogistics certifications, import/export knowledgeCustoms regulations, compliance certifications
Work EnvironmentWarehouses, shipping ports, logistics firmsCustoms offices, compliance departments
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, import/export firmsCustoms agencies, multinational corporations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding import processesEnsuring legal compliance in imports

Import Operations focus on managing the overall import process, including coordination with carriers and documentation. Customs Compliance Specialists concentrate on adhering to customs laws and regulations. Both roles are essential in international trade but differ in their primary responsibilities and expertise areas.

What are some common challenges faced in an Import Operations role, and how can they be managed effectively?

One of the main challenges in Import Operations is navigating complex international regulations and ensuring timely customs clearance. Delays can occur due to incomplete documentation, changing tariffs, or unforeseen inspections, which require strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Effective communication with customs brokers, carriers, and internal teams is essential to resolve issues quickly and keep shipments on schedule. Staying updated on regulatory changes and building positive relationships with partners can help minimize disruptions and improve overall efficiency.
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Import Operations jobs near you
Senior Import Compliance Manager

Senior Import Compliance Manager

CesiumAstro

Westminster, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Import Compliance Manager, to support our global import operations, customs compliance activities, and duty savings initiatives across aerospace programs and supply chains. If you enjoy working in a fast-paced startup environment and are passionate about import compliance within a growing aerospace company, we would like to hear from you.
In this role, you will serve as a subject matter expert on U.S. import regulations, including U.S. Customs regulations, Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification, Section 301 and Section 232 tariffs, Free Trade Agreements, and related trade laws. This position provides strategic guidance and oversight on complex compliance matters across aerospace and defense programs.
The Senior Manager, Import Compliance will partner closely with leadership, Supply Chain, Engineering, Procurement, Finance, Shipping/Logistics teams, external freight forwarders, customs brokers, and regulatory agencies to ensure the company maintains robust import compliance practices while supporting business objectives in global markets. This role will also work closely with CesiumAstro's international branches to support regional import compliance requirements, trade regulations, and operational best practices.
This role is instrumental in building and scaling import compliance programs, driving operational excellence, mitigating risk, and identifying cost savings opportunities across the business.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Lead and manage the company's import compliance program across aerospace and global supply chain operations.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain import compliance procedures, work instructions, internal controls, and governance frameworks.
  • Establish scalable import processes and provide operational oversight for import activities.
  • Train and support shipping and logistics teams on compliant import practices and documentation requirements.
  • Serve as the company's internal subject matter expert on customs compliance and import regulations.
  • Partner with international branches to support regional import compliance requirements and promote standardized global trade compliance practices.
  • Lead customs duty mitigation initiatives and aerospace-related tariff exemption strategies, including:
  • HTS classification and tariff engineering
  • Section 301, Section 232, and IEEPA mitigation opportunities
  • USMCA and other Free Trade Agreements
  • Temporary importation and repair/return programs (e.g., 9801, 9802, TIB)
  • Drawback and other customs recovery programs
  • Provide strategic guidance on import declarations, country of origin, customs valuation, and preferential trade claims.
  • Review and validate HTS classifications and special tariff provisions applicable to aerospace products and components.
  • Partner with internal stakeholders to identify opportunities for duty savings, process improvements, and risk reduction.
  • Support audits, broker management activities, disclosures, protests, post-entry corrections, and government inquiries related to customs compliance.
  • Monitor regulatory and tariff changes impacting aerospace imports and communicate business impacts and recommendations to leadership.
  • Collaborate with customs brokers, freight forwarders, government agencies, and international teams to ensure compliant and efficient import operations.
  • Support implementation and optimization of trade compliance processes and systems.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives through data analysis, reporting, and operational metrics.
  • Develop training materials and deliver compliance training to cross-functional teams.

JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, International Trade, Logistics, Legal Studies, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • A Bachelor's Degree and minimum 8 years of relevant experience; or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of relevant experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in import customs compliance, global trade, or international logistics.
  • Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) certification required.
  • Strong knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations and import processes, HTS classification and tariff application, and duty mitigation strategies and Free Trade Agreements
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret regulations and apply them operationally.
  • Experience collaborating with customs brokers, freight forwarders, government agencies, and international business partners.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and stakeholder management skills.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • Experience in aerospace, aviation, defense, or high-technology manufacturing industries strongly preferred.
  • Knowledge of EAR/ITAR and broader import/export compliance concepts.
  • Experience managing post-entry corrections, customs protests, customs audits and disclosures, and duty drawback initiatives

$94,000 - $112,000 a year
CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills. Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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