Trade Compliance Analyst

Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 25,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses sold. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird's complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue-bird.com.

JOB SUMMARY

As the Trade Compliance Analyst, you will ensure that international trade activities adhere to all applicable import/export laws and regulations, minimizing risk and facilitating the smooth flow of goods across borders. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Documentation Management: Review, prepare, and manage all necessary import and export documentation, including invoices, customs declarations, and shipping documents, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Product Classification: Determine and assign accurate Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), Schedule B, and Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) to products based on technical specifications and regulations.
• Regulatory Research and Guidance: Monitor and interpret changes in international trade laws and regulations (i.e. EAR, ITAR, OFAC, and customs laws) and advise internal stakeholders (logistics, sales, procurement, engineering) on compliance requirements.
• Broker and Freight Forwarder Coordination: Liaise with customs brokers and freight forwarders to ensure timely customs clearance, resolve day-to-day issues, and monitor their performance and compliance with company policies.
• Auditing and Recordkeeping: Conduct periodic internal audits of import/export activities and maintain meticulous records to ensure audit readiness for government agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
• Trade Program Management: Assist in managing special trade programs, such as Free Trade Agreements (e.g., USMCA), duty drawback claims, and supply chain security certifications (e.g., C-TPAT, APEC).
• Process Improvement and Training: Identify areas for process improvements, support automation initiatives, and develop and deliver training programs to educate employees on trade compliance procedures and best practices.
• Risk Management: Perform data analysis to identify compliance trends, assess potential risks, and develop strategies for risk mitigation. 
• Additional duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES FOR SUCCESS

• In-depth knowledge of U.S. and international trade laws, HTS/ECCN classification, valuation principles, and relevant government agency regulations.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills; high attention to detail; excellent written and verbal communication skills; and proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel superuser: Pivot tables, VBA, PowerPoint) and trade compliance software/ERP systems (e.g., SAP GTS). 

BASIC EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or Certified Export Specialist (CES) certification.
• A Bachelor's degree in business, international trade, supply chain management, or a related field.
• All candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• 1-3 years of automotive experience, preferred
• 3-5 years of professional experience in international operations, import/export, or customs brokerage preferred.
• A U.S. Customs Broker License (LCB), preferred

WE VALUE

• Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidance
• Excellent interpersonal and customer relationship skills to handle difficult and sensitive matters.
• Strong project management skills. Exposure to difficult or complex projects a plus.
• Ability to influence stakeholders
• Effective communication and ability to communicate complex details in a clear manner.
• Flexible workspaces and work hours that help you unleash the best you.
• Working in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectives.

INCLUDES

• Continued Professional Development
• Benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 14 paid holidays, vacation time and 401k matching

*The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive.  They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Blue Bird® is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. We strive to have the best available talent in every job based on the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities each person brings.  Blue Bird is committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in Company operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination in all forms.

All candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.

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