Foreign Trade Compliance Specialist

Job Title: Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Compliance Program Implementation Specialist Location: North Kingstown, RI Client Facing: Yes About PAC Group:    At The PAC Group (PAC), we specialize in engineering consulting, program management, and operational excellence—delivering high-impact solutions in more than 20 countries. We’re proud to partner with the world’s leading companies in automotive, aerospace, industrial, and technology sectors, providing strategic guidance and hands-on execution that drive innovation and efficiency. Whether we’re launching advanced manufacturing systems, deploying digital simulation tools, or scaling global operations, PAC thrives at the intersection of technology, engineering, and problem-solving.   Joining PAC means joining a dynamic, fast-paced, and global team that values curiosity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.   Role Purpose: The role is for an expert to lead the initial setup, application, and ongoing operation of an FTZ program for a manufacturing environment. This person ensures that importing high-value raw materials, components, and technical hardware meets strict U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Free Trade Zone Board rules while optimizing duty savings. This is ONLY a Project Based Role and will go from October 5, 2026 through April 4, 2027. Key Responsibilities: FTZ Implementation & Application: Lead the feasibility study, site activation, and dual application process alongside local port authorities, economic grantees, the FTZ Board, and CBP. - Conduct a comprehensive assessment of current import, manufacturing, inventory control, and export processes. - Evaluate FTZ eligibility and opportunities for duty savings, inverted tariffs, weekly entry procedures, and operational efficiencies. - Develop the FTZ operating framework, governance model, and compliance strategy. - Identify program risks and establish mitigating controls. - Lead all phases of FTZ implementation from project initiation through operational launch. - Define zone activation requirements and coordinate activities with Customs authorities, FTZ Board stakeholders, and service providers. - Develop FTZ procedures covering: - Admission of merchandise - Inventory control and recordkeeping - Manufacturing activities - Transfers and exports - Scrap, waste, and destruction processes - Weekly entry programs - Customs reporting and reconciliation - Establish documentation standards and compliance controls. - Analyze specific manufacturing processes and material flows. - Develop compliant methods for tracking: - Raw materials - Components - Work-in-process inventory - Serialized parts - Product assemblies and subassemblies Controls Integration: Coordinate with engineering and logistics teams to apply correct Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classifications, managing dual-use or defense-related trade considerations where applicable. System & Infrastructure Setup: Deploy and manage specialized inventory tracking and software systems required for compliant admission, manipulation, and manufacturing inside the zone. - Assess ERP, warehouse management, and inventory control systems. - Define FTZ inventory control and recordkeeping requirements. - Collaborate with IT teams to configure systems supporting: - CBP compliance - Inventory visibility - Audit trails - Transaction reporting - Validate system controls and reporting capabilities. CBP & Regulatory Compliance: Oversee daily FTZ recordkeeping, weekly entries, admissions, duty deferral tracking, and annual reporting. - Design compliance monitoring and internal audit programs. - Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and compliance metrics. - Develop corrective action and continuous improvement processes. - Ensure compliance with regulatory and traceability requirements. Training and Change Management - Develop and deliver training programs for impacted stakeholders. - Create FTZ operational guides and user documentation. - Support organizational adoption of new compliance requirements and processes. Audit Readiness: Build internal controls, conduct routine self-audits, and manage responses to CBP inquiries, reviews, or formal audits. - Prepare the organization for CBP audits and reviews. - Conduct mock audits and compliance assessments. - Support government inquiries, examinations, and compliance reviews. - Develop remediation plans for identified gaps. Required Qualifications: Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, International Trade, Business Administration, or a related field. Experience: 5 to 8+ years of hands-on U.S. customs and Foreign-Trade Zone implementation experience, ideally within a manufacturing, aviation, defense, or aerospace setting. Preferred Qualifications: Certifications (Preferred): Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) or Certified Customs Specialist (CCS / CES). Technical Knowledge: Deep familiarity with CBP FTZ operational regulations (14 CFR / 19 CFR), inventory control and recordkeeping systems (ICRS), and ERP integration. Start-up Mindset: Ability to build a compliance program from scratch, set up internal policies, and cross-collaborate effectively with engineering and finance teams. The salary range for this position is dependent upon experience, education, and qualifications. Pay Range $114,400—$114,400 USD