Customs Import Operations Specialist

Our vision is to create a better everyday life for the many people. We do this by offering a wide range of well-designed, functional home furnishing and food products at prices so low that as many people as possible will be able to afford them.

The Inter IKEA Group is a part of Inter IKEA Systems B.V., owner of the IKEA Concept and worldwide IKEA franchisor.

IKEA Supply is responsible for securing that the product offer is produced and delivered to our customers. We lead the supply agenda across many functions and work together with all business areas, different business units, but also retail markets to secure customer availability in all markets and sales channels at lowest total cost.

IKEA Purchasing and Logistics Services US Inc. is part of our Americas region which also has an office in Curitiba, Brazil and Mexico City, Mexico, and is a subsidiary of the Inter IKEA Group.

You see things a little differently. So do we. We work hard to make sure everyone’s voice is heard and that everyone can make a difference. We offer positions that challenge your skills and inspire you to grow. Come see things a little differently with us.

About the job...

IKEA has centralized operations for import/export purposes in Customs Operations Support Centers (COSC). This position will be to facilitate efficiency and control of the import/export operations assigned to the Americas. The centralized activities include, but are not limited to handling of customs related certificates and documents, customs entry writing and validation activities, import clearance monitoring, control and payment of customs and brokerage bills as well as post entry controls. In addition, the Support Centers provide audit, process development support.

About the assignment
Being a Customs Operations Specialist at IKEA involves a variety of different tasks and each day may be different. Your main tasks will include:

• Preparation of Customs Entries: Utilize in-house systems to prepare customs entries for transmission to external service providers, overseeing the clearance process for both import and export entries in the assigned country.
• Daily Analysis and Validation of Import Documentation: Review import documentation and data daily to ensure compliance with Import laws and regulations before submitting entries to the Broker for Customs Authorities clearance, ensuring timely release.
• Management of Customs Security Filings (ISF): Oversee ISF filings in accordance with internal procedures and current customs regulations.
• Identification and Resolution of Inaccuracies: Promptly identify and address inaccuracies and deviations to ensure compliance and facilitate timely clearance.
• Ensuring Compliance in Customs Declarations: Ensure compliance in every customs declaration, conducting analysis, investigations, and resolutions as needed to ensure entry compliance and timely clearance.
• Collaboration with Stakeholders: Collaborate closely with other IKEA units, external service providers, and authorities to deliver a high level of service, especially in instances where IKEA standards are not met.
• Continuous Process Improvement: Contribute to ongoing development and enhancement of processes, including performing gap analyses to identify areas for improvement.

Regulatory Compliance and Knowledge Maintenance: Maintain competence and knowledge of regulations, ensuring complete compliance with all legal requirements and corporate policies and procedures for imports into North and South America, while staying informed about the information used in system applications.

• Issue Resolution and SOP Updating: Respond to Broker requests, resolve operational issues, handle incidents, and update standard operating procedures to maintain efficiency and compliance.
• Goal Achievement and Support: Ensure personal and departmental goals are met, while providing support to local partners in the countries you work with.

About you...
You are eager to learn and have interest in Supply Chain and Logistics related topics. You enjoy working with others in a diverse and global environment and work professionally with others in your team. 

To be successful in this role, the following knowledge, skills and experiences would be valuable:

• A university degree or equivalent work experience is required.
• Three or more years of experience in a Customs brokerage environment is advantageous.
• Possession of a Customs Brokerage License is beneficial.
• Experience in logistics or supply chain is preferred.
• Demonstrated proficiency in clear documentation and communication regarding manuals and working methods is important.
• Strong analytical, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills are essential.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, Access) at an intermediate or advanced level is required.
• The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to the team is necessary.
• Effective troubleshooting and communication skills, both verbally and in writing, with stakeholders and foreign counterparts are important.

At IKEA, we value diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We are committed to providing coworkers with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. We encourage individualism and invite you to come join our team and be yourself with us! 

We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristic protected by law. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit and business need.  

Want to learn more about current opportunities? Come say Hej (hello in Swedish) here: https://about.ikea.com/en/work-with-us