Import Purchasing Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

About Waldom Electronics

Waldom Electronics is a global solutions provider to the electronic component distribution industry. With a commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and customer success, Waldom partners with distributors and suppliers worldwide to deliver supply chain solutions that optimize efficiency, compliance, and growth.

Position Overview

The Trade Compliance Manager is responsible for leading and managing Waldom's global trade compliance program to ensure adherence with all applicable U.S. and international import/export laws and regulations. This role will oversee trade compliance processes, policies, audits, classifications, and Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) operations while supporting Waldom's continued global growth. The Trade Compliance Manager will lead and develop team members and serve as the primary internal subject matter expert for trade compliance matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain Waldom's global trade compliance policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Ensure compliance with U.S. and international trade regulations, including Customs regulations, EAR, ITAR, OFAC, and other applicable import/export requirements.
• Serve as the company's primary trade compliance subject matter expert and advisor to leadership and cross-functional teams.
• Lead and develop trade compliance staff, including coaching, training, and performance management responsibilities.
• Partner with operations, purchasing, sales, and logistics teams to ensure compliant and efficient international transactions.

Import/Export Compliance

• Oversee import/export classification activities, including HTS, ECCN, country of origin determinations, and free trade agreement qualification reviews.
• Ensure accurate customs documentation, recordkeeping, and audit readiness.
• Manage denied party screening processes and export controls compliance.
• Monitor regulatory changes and assess impact to Waldom operations and policies.

FTZ & Regulatory Oversight

• Lead establishment and ongoing management of Waldom's Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) operations in Rockford, IL.
• Manage FTZ activation activities, SOP development, compliance audits, inventory controls, and reporting requirements.
• Serve as the primary contact for U.S. Customs & Border Protection and other regulatory agencies, as needed.
• Conduct internal compliance audits, investigations, and risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential compliance exposure.

Training & Continuous Improvement

• Develop and deliver employee training programs related to import/export compliance and trade regulations.
• Identify opportunities to improve compliance processes, systems, and operational efficiencies.
• Support implementation and optimization of trade compliance tools and systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, International Business, Logistics, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of experience in trade compliance, import/export compliance, or global trade management.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations, EAR, ITAR, OFAC, HTS/ECCN classification, and FTZ operations.
• Previous leadership or people management experience preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilities.
• Professional certifications such as CCS, CES, LCB, or CTPAT preferred.

• Willingness to be onsite 4 days per week.

Here's a Few Things We Offer You

• Competitive base salary plus performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and 401(k).
• Opportunities for career growth in a global organization.
• A collaborative culture committed to innovation, partnership, and continuous improvement.

• Topqualitymedical,dental, vision, and life insurance plansWaldom pays the majority of themedicalplan cost
• Fourteen (14) days of paid time off (PTO) annually (accrued at 2.15 hours per week for the first four (4) years of employment).
• 8 Paid holidays plus 1 floating holiday.
• 8 hours of paid volunteer time off annually.
• Corporate Discount Program.
• Employee Assistance Program100% Waldom Paid!
• Generous Paid Maternity & Paternity Leaves.
• Tuition Assistance Program.
• Scholarship Program: for your eligible children, grandchildren & legal dependents, up to $8k a year.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement:

Waldom Electronics is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees. The Company does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, pregnancy, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran, marital, or any other protected status. The Company also makes reasonable accommodations for disabled employees. Finally, Waldom Electronics prohibits the harassment of any individual based on their protected status. This policy applies to all areas of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, transfer, and social and recreational programs.

Note: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.