Foreign Trade Zone Operations Specialist
GREEN WORLDWIDE SHIPPING, Aurora, CO, United States
Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Operations Specialist
Global Reach with a personal touch, that's the foundation on which four partners (and long-time friends) agreed to when they started Green Worldwide Shipping back in 2008. This ethos has allowed Green to grow to a 200+ strong team with 15 offices across the US and growing. At green we are a family of innovative problem-solvers who communicate freely to present creative solutions in an environment of trust, respect, and integrity. We are dedicated to customer service, passionate about logistics, and committed to sustainable growth while inspiring others. This role is special because... Position Overview: The Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Operations Specialist is responsible for FTZ operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting full-service customs brokerage activities. This role serves as a subject-matter expert in FTZ admissions, inventory control, and CBP compliance, while maintaining the ability to execute end-to-end brokerage functions. This position operates in a fast-paced, client-facing environment and requires strong technical expertise across FTZ operations, entry filing, classification, and PGA compliance. The role collaborates cross-functionally across teams and supports clients with both operational execution and regulatory guidance. What you will be doing... FTZ Zone Management & Compliance: Process FTZ admissions (CBP Form 214), transfers, manipulations, and withdrawals within the Inventory Control and Recordkeeping System (ICRS). Assign and validate merchandise status designations (Privileged Foreign, Non-Privileged Foreign, Domestic) at time of admission. Perform daily off-balance reviews and investigate discrepancies between physical and system inventory. Complete weekly and monthly reconciliations to ensure inventory accuracy and audit readiness. Review FTZ transactions for data accuracy, including quantities, values, HTS classifications, and status indicators prior to submission. Identify and correct errors in ICRS data before impacting CBP reporting or entry filings. Ensure compliance with CBP Part 146 regulations, FTZ Board requirements, and site-specific SOPs. Support CBP audits, spot checks, and internal reviews by preparing documentation and resolving findings. Process and monitor in-bond movements (CBP Form 7512, IT, T&E), ensuring proper routing and bond coverage. File AES/EEI for exports and validate export data elements. Compile data and support preparation of FTZ Annual Board Reports and related reconciliations. Customs Brokerage & Entry Filing: Prepare, review, and transmit CBP Form 7501 Entry Summaries, including FTZ weekly entries and consumption entries. Validate entry data elements, including HTS classification, entered value, duty rate, SPI applicability, and tariff stacking. File multiple entry types, including formal, informal, FTZ weekly entries (7501-FTZ), TIB, quota entries, and corrections. Classify merchandise using the HTSUS and maintain classification consistency across product databases. Apply trade programs and remedies accurately, including Section 301, Section 232, AD/CVD, and FTAs. Ensure all PGA requirements are met at time of entry (FDA, USDA, EPA, CPSC, etc.), including proper flagging and data submission. File and manage ISF (10+2) for applicable shipments and resolve discrepancies. Prepare and support post-entry actions, including PSCs, protests (CBP Form 19), and requests for further review. Maintain and update product databases in CargoWise to ensure alignment with entry filings. Ensure all entry documentation is complete and retained in accordance with CBP 5-year recordkeeping requirements. Shipment Ownership & Operations: Own shipments end-to-end, including FTZ admission, inventory tracking, entry filing, duty payment, and final recordkeeping. Work daily in CargoWise, FTZ ICRS, ACE, and other systems, ensuring data consistency across platforms. Manage shipment dashboards and operational queues, ensuring all tasks are completed within required timelines. Identify root causes of entry errors, data gaps, and KPI discrepancies; escalate and resolve as needed. Follow and maintain client-specific SOPs; update procedures as operational changes occur. Serve as a direct point of contact for clients, responding to operational questions, data requests, and compliance inquiries. Support onboarding of new clients, including system setup, SOP implementation, and process alignment. Regulatory Execution: Execute work in compliance with CBP regulations (19 CFR), FTZ requirements (19 CFR Part 146), and applicable trade programs. Monitor CSMS messages, Federal Register notices, and regulatory updates; apply changes to daily operations. Validate that all filings meet CBP data requirements to avoid rejections, delays, or compliance exposure. Escalation of issues, admissibility concerns, and data inconsistencies prior to filing. Key Competencies: Strong working knowledge of FTZ operations and customs entry processes High level of accuracy in data entry, validation, and reconciliation Ability to identify and resolve discrepancies quickly Comfort working across multiple systems and datasets simultaneously Clear, direct communication with clients, internal teams, and CBP Ability to manage high-volume transactional work with competing priorities Work Environment: On-site, office-based role within a collaborative team environment that supports continuous learning, professional development, and growth in global trade and compliance. This position involves high-volume, detail-oriented work with direct impact on client compliance and operations. How you will be successful... Required Qualifications: Two years of hands-on customs brokerage experience with FTZ or import operations exposure Experience preparing Customs entries and working with entry data elements Proficiency in Microsoft Office Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a high-accuracy environment Strong written and verbal communication skills (client-facing role) Ability to work independently and manage multiple workflows Preferred Qualifications: Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) or actively pursuing licensure Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) designation (NCBFAA) Accredited Zone Specialist (AZS) or Certified Zone Specialist (CZS) designation (NAFTZ) Experience working in FTZ ICRS systems Familiarity with FTZ operations, including admissions and inventory tracking Proficiency in CargoWise Experience with trade remedies, FTAs, and duty mitigation strategies Experience filing in-bonds (7512) and export filings (AES/EEI) Why Join GTS: Be part of a Global Trade Solutions team that delivers both operational execution and established advisory services across global trade Work in an environment that actively supports continuous learning across multiple areas, including Duty Drawback, FTZ, trade compliance, and broader global trade advisory Gain hands-on exposure to complex, real-world client scenarios across industries, with the opportunity to build both technical and advisory skillsets Work alongside experienced team members and leadership who are engaged, accessible, and committed to developing the team Contribute to building and improving processes, tools, and solutions that drive value for clients and support the continued growth of the organization What we offer: Salary Range: $50,000 - $65,000 Employee High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) currently paid for 100% by Green. $1,800 contributed to employee HSA Account, if on HDHP. Employee Dental provided by Green. Option to purchase disability insurance. Paid life insurance and option to buy-up. 401(K) and company match. Parental Leave Program. Monthly recognition points to give
Global Reach with a personal touch, that's the foundation on which four partners (and long-time friends) agreed to when they started Green Worldwide Shipping back in 2008. This ethos has allowed Green to grow to a 200+ strong team with 15 offices across the US and growing. At green we are a family of innovative problem-solvers who communicate freely to present creative solutions in an environment of trust, respect, and integrity. We are dedicated to customer service, passionate about logistics, and committed to sustainable growth while inspiring others. This role is special because... Position Overview: The Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Operations Specialist is responsible for FTZ operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting full-service customs brokerage activities. This role serves as a subject-matter expert in FTZ admissions, inventory control, and CBP compliance, while maintaining the ability to execute end-to-end brokerage functions. This position operates in a fast-paced, client-facing environment and requires strong technical expertise across FTZ operations, entry filing, classification, and PGA compliance. The role collaborates cross-functionally across teams and supports clients with both operational execution and regulatory guidance. What you will be doing... FTZ Zone Management & Compliance: Process FTZ admissions (CBP Form 214), transfers, manipulations, and withdrawals within the Inventory Control and Recordkeeping System (ICRS). Assign and validate merchandise status designations (Privileged Foreign, Non-Privileged Foreign, Domestic) at time of admission. Perform daily off-balance reviews and investigate discrepancies between physical and system inventory. Complete weekly and monthly reconciliations to ensure inventory accuracy and audit readiness. Review FTZ transactions for data accuracy, including quantities, values, HTS classifications, and status indicators prior to submission. Identify and correct errors in ICRS data before impacting CBP reporting or entry filings. Ensure compliance with CBP Part 146 regulations, FTZ Board requirements, and site-specific SOPs. Support CBP audits, spot checks, and internal reviews by preparing documentation and resolving findings. Process and monitor in-bond movements (CBP Form 7512, IT, T&E), ensuring proper routing and bond coverage. File AES/EEI for exports and validate export data elements. Compile data and support preparation of FTZ Annual Board Reports and related reconciliations. Customs Brokerage & Entry Filing: Prepare, review, and transmit CBP Form 7501 Entry Summaries, including FTZ weekly entries and consumption entries. Validate entry data elements, including HTS classification, entered value, duty rate, SPI applicability, and tariff stacking. File multiple entry types, including formal, informal, FTZ weekly entries (7501-FTZ), TIB, quota entries, and corrections. Classify merchandise using the HTSUS and maintain classification consistency across product databases. Apply trade programs and remedies accurately, including Section 301, Section 232, AD/CVD, and FTAs. Ensure all PGA requirements are met at time of entry (FDA, USDA, EPA, CPSC, etc.), including proper flagging and data submission. File and manage ISF (10+2) for applicable shipments and resolve discrepancies. Prepare and support post-entry actions, including PSCs, protests (CBP Form 19), and requests for further review. Maintain and update product databases in CargoWise to ensure alignment with entry filings. Ensure all entry documentation is complete and retained in accordance with CBP 5-year recordkeeping requirements. Shipment Ownership & Operations: Own shipments end-to-end, including FTZ admission, inventory tracking, entry filing, duty payment, and final recordkeeping. Work daily in CargoWise, FTZ ICRS, ACE, and other systems, ensuring data consistency across platforms. Manage shipment dashboards and operational queues, ensuring all tasks are completed within required timelines. Identify root causes of entry errors, data gaps, and KPI discrepancies; escalate and resolve as needed. Follow and maintain client-specific SOPs; update procedures as operational changes occur. Serve as a direct point of contact for clients, responding to operational questions, data requests, and compliance inquiries. Support onboarding of new clients, including system setup, SOP implementation, and process alignment. Regulatory Execution: Execute work in compliance with CBP regulations (19 CFR), FTZ requirements (19 CFR Part 146), and applicable trade programs. Monitor CSMS messages, Federal Register notices, and regulatory updates; apply changes to daily operations. Validate that all filings meet CBP data requirements to avoid rejections, delays, or compliance exposure. Escalation of issues, admissibility concerns, and data inconsistencies prior to filing. Key Competencies: Strong working knowledge of FTZ operations and customs entry processes High level of accuracy in data entry, validation, and reconciliation Ability to identify and resolve discrepancies quickly Comfort working across multiple systems and datasets simultaneously Clear, direct communication with clients, internal teams, and CBP Ability to manage high-volume transactional work with competing priorities Work Environment: On-site, office-based role within a collaborative team environment that supports continuous learning, professional development, and growth in global trade and compliance. This position involves high-volume, detail-oriented work with direct impact on client compliance and operations. How you will be successful... Required Qualifications: Two years of hands-on customs brokerage experience with FTZ or import operations exposure Experience preparing Customs entries and working with entry data elements Proficiency in Microsoft Office Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a high-accuracy environment Strong written and verbal communication skills (client-facing role) Ability to work independently and manage multiple workflows Preferred Qualifications: Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) or actively pursuing licensure Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) designation (NCBFAA) Accredited Zone Specialist (AZS) or Certified Zone Specialist (CZS) designation (NAFTZ) Experience working in FTZ ICRS systems Familiarity with FTZ operations, including admissions and inventory tracking Proficiency in CargoWise Experience with trade remedies, FTAs, and duty mitigation strategies Experience filing in-bonds (7512) and export filings (AES/EEI) Why Join GTS: Be part of a Global Trade Solutions team that delivers both operational execution and established advisory services across global trade Work in an environment that actively supports continuous learning across multiple areas, including Duty Drawback, FTZ, trade compliance, and broader global trade advisory Gain hands-on exposure to complex, real-world client scenarios across industries, with the opportunity to build both technical and advisory skillsets Work alongside experienced team members and leadership who are engaged, accessible, and committed to developing the team Contribute to building and improving processes, tools, and solutions that drive value for clients and support the continued growth of the organization What we offer: Salary Range: $50,000 - $65,000 Employee High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) currently paid for 100% by Green. $1,800 contributed to employee HSA Account, if on HDHP. Employee Dental provided by Green. Option to purchase disability insurance. Paid life insurance and option to buy-up. 401(K) and company match. Parental Leave Program. Monthly recognition points to give