Customs Compliance Analyst

DescriptionABOUT THE ROLEWe are seeking a detail-oriented and highly skilled Customs Compliance Analyst to join our team. This role is responsible for managing all U.S. customs compliance and brokerage activities. The position ensures adherence to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Partner Government Agency (PGA) requirements and serves as the company's subject matter expert on classification, valuation, origin, and trade programs. The purpose of the role is to research and maintain compliant U.S. trade operations, manage U.S. Customs Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) analytics, and operate as liaison to CBP, freight forwarders, brokers and internal Logistics teams.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESCustoms OperationsHandle all U.S. import and export compliance activities, including entry preparation, filing, post-entry actions, and recordkeeping in accordance with CBP regulations.Monitor clearances, engaging with brokers to ensure accurate entries, investigating exceptions to resolution.Classification & ValuationManage HTS classification, valuation (including assists and related-party pricing), country of origin, and ADD/CVD applicability.Lead research on policies and practices associated with trade agreements, and lead on classification resolution disputes, proactively managing tariff exposure, including customer tariff recovery documentation.Data & AnalyticsAdministration-level fluency with US Customs ACE Portal and trade reports to monitor compliance, duty spend, and operational efficiency.Develop dashboards and KPIs to measure performance.Regulatory EngagementAct as the primary contact for (CBP) and (PGAs) (e.g., FDA, EPA, USDA). Manage inquiries, audits, and maintain CTPAT status.Policies & ControlsDevelop and maintain SOPs, broker management processes, and compliance training. Track regulatory updates and implement changes as needed.Trade Programs & Cost SavingsIdentify and implement duty-minimization opportunities (e.g., USMCA, drawback, FTZ, reconciliation) in partnership with Procurement, Logistics, Supply Chain, and Finance.Continuous ImprovementResolve import/export delays, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to improve compliance, accuracy, and cycle time.QUALIFICATIONS2-4 years in customs brokerage, trade compliance, or trade operations.Strong knowledge of U.S. Customs regulations, HTS, valuation, origin, and PGA requirements.Experience with ACE Portal, preferably as system administrator, post-entry processes, SOP development, broker management, and responding to CBP/PGA audits.Demonstrated ability to act independently upon information and make decisions in adherence to compliance, regulations and policies.Demonstrated ability to identify and understand issues and resolve inquiries and develop appropriate solutions quickly, effectively and independently.Strong analytical skills with advanced Excel and ability to work with large datasets.Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.PreferredU.S. Customs Broker License certification in process, Active U.S. Customs Broker License preferred.CTPAT program management experience.Experience with customs audits, ADD/CVD, reconciliation, and USMCA qualification.Exposure to global trade compliance.Tools & SystemsTrade Systems: ACE Portal, brokerage software.ERP: SAP (preferred) or equivalent.Productivity: Microsoft Office (advanced Excel); data visualization tools a plus.WORK ENVIRONMENTFlexible, hybrid work available. Great company culture that is supportive and believes in continuous learning and growth.BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS:Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision InsuranceEmployer Paid Life InsuranceHealth Savings Accounts401kPaid vacation and holidaysEmployee Assistance ProgramAccess to thousands of free online coursesDiscounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more!Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional)Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ: CENT), (NASDAQ: CENTA) understands that home is central to life and has proudly nurtured happy and healthy homes for over 40 years. With fiscal 2024 net sales of $3.2 billion, Central is on a mission to lead the future of the pet and garden industries. The Company's innovative and trusted products are dedicated to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, pets live healthier, and communities grow stronger. Central is home to a leading portfolio of more than 65 high-quality brands including Amdro, Aqueon, Cadet, C&S, Farnam, Ferry-Morse, Four Paws, Kaytee, Nylabone and Pennington, strong manufacturing and distribution capabilities, and a passionate, entrepreneurial growth culture. Central is based in Walnut Creek, California, with 6,450 employees primarily across North America. Visit www.central.com to learn more.We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.#LI-MJ1