Customs and Logistics Specialist - Houston, TX

Freudenberg is a global technology group that specializes in innovative solutions and high-quality products across various industries including automotive, mechanical engineering, electronics, and textiles. With a rich history spanning more than 170 years, Freudenberg continues to advance its commitment to excellence and sustainability, striving to wow the world with its products and services. The company operates on a foundation of teamwork, innovation, and continuous improvement, ensuring that it stays at the forefront of evolving markets and technologies. Known for its diverse portfolio, Freudenberg provides solutions that enhance the quality of life for people around the world. Its global network allows it to meet complex customer demands and to maintain high standards in product development, manufacturing, and customer service. The firm's culture emphasizes respect, inclusion, and opportunity, aiming to nurture talent and foster career growth within a supportive environment. This position at Freudenberg is focused on managing import and export operations within a fast-paced and highly regulated environment. The role requires overseeing compliance with U.S. and international customs regulations and maintaining updated Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes in the company’s ERP system, specifically SAP. The Customs Compliance Coordinator is responsible for preparing and reviewing customs entries, verifying import values, applying for duty refunds, and addressing customs-related challenges such as shipment delays, inspections, or audits. The role demands extensive coordination and communication with customs brokers, freight forwarders, regulatory authorities, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure seamless clearance of shipments and timely delivery of goods. Supporting logistics operations is another key component of this role, which includes scheduling shipments, tracking material flow, monitoring inventory, and ensuring accurate customs documentation throughout the supply chain process. In addition, the position requires preparing Certificates of Origin under trade agreements like USMCA to optimize duty savings and maintain regulatory compliance. Detailed record-keeping and the ability to respond effectively during customs audits are critical, alongside the preparation of regular reports on import/export performance, compliance status, and cost metrics. The Customs Compliance Coordinator at Freudenberg must demonstrate strong analytical and communication skills to identify potential compliance issues quickly, assure documentation accuracy, and facilitate collaboration among multiple stakeholders including finance teams for invoice and reconciliation processes. This mostly office-based role includes occasional visits to warehouses or shipping and receiving areas and may involve moderate lifting of up to 25 pounds. Occasional travel is also expected to coordinate activities with suppliers, customs brokers, or other facilities as needed. This job opportunity is part of Freudenberg's commitment to diversity and inclusion, providing equal employment opportunities irrespective of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, or any other legally protected status. The company welcomes applicants who are passionate about compliance and logistics and want to join a forward-thinking, innovative organization that values sustainable practices and personal career development. The role offers a chance to play a vital part in ensuring the company’s global supply chain operates efficiently while adhering to stringent regulatory requirements, contributing directly to customer satisfaction and company success.

• bachelor's degree in supply chain logistics international business or related field or equivalent experience
• experience with U.S. and international customs regulations and import/export compliance
• proficiency in ERP systems preferably SAP
• strong communication and analytical skills
• physical ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds
• flexibility for occasional travel
• attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• ability to work primarily in an office environment with visits to warehouse or shipping/receiving areas