Customs Compliance Intern

As a Customs Compliance Intern at Otter Products, you'll take on key responsibilities like auditing import documents, providing clearance instructions to customs brokers, and tracking shipments. Additionally, you’ll assign HTS classifications, monitor customs releases, and ensure compliance with free trade agreements, all while gaining practical experience in customs regulations and logistics management.

To qualify for the Customs Compliance Intern position at Otter Products, you must be enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program, preferably at the junior level or higher. Business, Political Science, International Relations, Economics, or Supply Chain Majors are preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, is required, and previous experience in customs compliance is a plus.

The internship for the Customs Compliance Intern position at Otter Products will typically run from May 19th to August 8th. This summer internship allows you to work up to 40 hours per week, providing a great opportunity for immersion in the field of customs compliance while enjoying your summer months.

Customs Compliance Interns at Otter Products are eligible for modified benefits, including Paid Time Off, Volunteer-Time Off, and participation in the Profit Sharing Program. You'll get hands-on experience in a supportive and growth-oriented environment while earning a competitive hourly wage of $21.00.

The Customs Compliance Intern position is located in Fort Collins, CO. It's essential for candidates to reside near the office, as Otter Products does not offer relocation assistance, so housing and transportation will be the intern's responsibility.

This is your opportunity to express your passion for international trade and logistics. Share specifics about your interest in customs regulations and how they impact global businesses like Otter Products, emphasizing your desire to learn and contribute.

HTS classifications are crucial for determining the tariffs and duties that apply to imported goods. Explain how this classification impacts the customs clearance process and why accuracy is essential in ensuring compliance, showcasing your knowledge of customs regulations.

Discuss your organizational skills and time management strategies. You could mention using tools or software to maintain oversight of various shipments and ensuring that all customs requirements are met in a timely fashion.

Provide an example from your academic or work experience where attention to detail was critical—such as validating data in a report or ensuring compliance with guidelines. Highlight how you ensured accuracy and identified any potential issues.

Show that you understand the concept of free trade agreements and how they can influence customs compliance. Discuss how such agreements can help reduce duties and tariffs for qualified imports, and express your interest in keeping up with compliance.

Explain your prioritization process when managing multiple tasks under time constraints. You can discuss strategies such as assessing the urgency and compliance requirements, and then allocating your time efficiently to meet deadlines.

Mention any experience you have with customs compliance software or Microsoft Excel. Discuss how you'd effectively use these tools to track, analyze, and report on shipment compliance data.

Give a relevant story that showcases your ability to work with a team effectively—perhaps in a class project or internship. Highlight how teamwork contributed to achieving a common goal and the skills you learned from that experience.

Discuss potential challenges such as navigating complex customs regulations or balancing multiple tasks. Emphasize your willingness to learn and adapt, showcasing your proactive approach to overcoming hurdles.

Reflect on Otter Products' values and mission. Highlight their commitment to innovation and community, and how you resonate with their culture, making it an ideal place to gain experience and contribute positively.