Trade Operations Lead

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in New Jersey, +1 more state.

📋 Description

• Take charge of operational management and tactical oversight of maquila activities along the Southern border and oversee U.S. import/export processes.

• Act as the main operational liaison with U.S. Customs (CBP), FDA when applicable, customs brokers, carriers, 3PLs, surety providers, maquila partners, and government agencies.

• Ensure adherence to and integrity of Importer of Record and Exporter of Record responsibilities throughout the U.S.

• Oversee the complete lifecycle of Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB) to mitigate bond claims, penalties, and interruptions in supply.

• Address RFIs, audits, and inquiries from U.S. Customs, FDA, and other regulatory bodies; coordinate evidence, prepare responses, and handle follow-up actions.

• Track compliance KPIs, duty optimization potentials, drawback, FTZ or bonded solutions, and cost-saving opportunities.

• Develop and refine SOPs, controls, and process enhancements for cross-border trade, TIB management, and maquila operations.

• Serve as a trade compliance subject matter expert for cross-functional and Operating Company initiatives, offering analysis, implementation guidance, and risk evaluations.

• Utilize trade software to audit and reconcile transactions encompassing Maquila, Mexico inbound, IMMEX, Pedimentos, Mexico exports, and U.S. imports.

• Cultivate relationships with stakeholders in Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Legal, Tax, and Finance.

• Maintain readiness for audits pertaining to customs, trade, and regulatory inspections.

• Identify, quantify, implement, and monitor initiatives aimed at duty savings.

• Collaborate with J&J Deliver Quality and other departments to ensure alignment with corporate frameworks and standards.

⛳️ Requirements

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, International Trade, Business, Law, or a related field (or equivalent experience) is required.

• Fluency in both Spanish and English is necessary.

• A Licensed Customs Broker and/or Certified Customs Specialist is preferred.

• 6–10 years of progressive experience in customs, trade compliance, or cross-border operations are required.

• Experience with maquiladora/IMMEX or similar programs is highly preferred.

• Practical experience acting as or closely supporting Importer of Record and Exporter of Record duties for U.S. imports/exports is essential.

• Direct experience in managing Maquila and/or Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB) processes and lifecycle is preferred.

• Familiarity with SAP GTS, customs entry software, and EDI/ACE integrations is necessary.

• Experience in supporting FDA-regulated product imports/exports or regulated supply chains is needed.

• Knowledge of duty mitigation programs, including FTZ and drawback, and preferential origin documentation is essential.

• Experience working directly with U.S. Customs (CBP) and managing relationships with customs brokers/forwarders is required.

• Strong understanding of HTS classification, valuation, country-of-origin regulations, duty regimes, USMCA, ACE/AES filing procedures, and interactions with brokers is crucial.

• Capability to manage complex operational issues, lead cross-functional projects, and influence stakeholders without direct authority is important.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage with regulators, vendors, and senior leadership, are vital.

🏝️ Benefits

• Consolidated retirement plan (pension).

• Savings plan (401(k)).

• Vacation – 120 hours per calendar year.

• Sick time – 40 hours per calendar year; 48 hours per calendar year for employees residing in Colorado; 56 hours per calendar year for employees residing in Washington.

• Holiday pay, including Floating Holidays – 13 days per calendar year.

• Work, Personal, and Family Time – up to 40 hours per calendar year.

• Parental Leave – 480 hours within one year of the birth/adoption/foster care of a child.

• Bereavement Leave – 240 hours for an immediate family member; 40 hours for an extended family member per calendar year.

• Caregiver Leave – 80 hours in a 52-week rolling period.

• Volunteer Leave – 32 hours per calendar year.

• Military Spouse Time-Off – 80 hours per calendar year.

• Inclusive interview-process accommodations for applicants with disabilities.