Export Compliance Specialist

Imperial Clinical Research Services

Grand Rapids, MI

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Best Practices, Brokerage, Clinical Support, Clinical Trial, Clinical Trial Management, Communication Skills, Continuous Improvement, Cross-Functional, Customer Relations, Data Quality, Detail Oriented, Documentation, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), Freight Forwarding, High-Throughput Screening (HTS), Import/Export Compliance, Internal Audit, International Trade Law, Laboratory Equipment, Lift/Move 50 Pounds, Logistics, Medical Equipment, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Operational Support, Operational Support Systems (OSS), Order Picking/Packing, Pallet Jack, Problem Solving Skills, Process Development, Process Improvement, Quality Assurance, Refrigeration, Regulations, Risk, Shipping Operations, Time Management, Warehousing
LOCATION
Grand Rapids, MI
POSTED
1 day ago
Export Compliance Specialist

The Export Compliance Specialist is responsible for ensuring that all international shipments of clinical support materials, including printed study materials and non-medical ancillary equipment (e.g., laboratory and medical equipment), are compliant with global trade regulations.

This role focuses on small-parcel and time-sensitive global logistics, supporting clinical trials by enabling compliant, on-time delivery of materials to investigator sites, depots, and partners worldwide. This position plays a critical role in export documentation accuracy, regulatory adherence, and cross-functional coordination with internal teams, clients, and logistics providers.

Job Functions and Responsibilities

Export Compliance & Documentation

  • Prepare, review, and process export documentation (commercial invoices, packing lists, shipping labels, EEI filings where applicable)
  • Ensure compliance with US export regulations (EAR, OFAC, Census) and destination country import requirements
  • Classify products using HTS/Schedule B codes and maintain proper documentation records
  • Apply and interpret INCOTERMS 2020 to ensure correct shipment responsibilities and risk transfer
  • Verify restricted party screening and embargo compliance for all shipments

Global Logistics Execution

  • Coordinate small parcel international shipments through courier networks and specialized clinical logistics providers
  • Manage shipments containing:
    • Printed clinical trial materials
    • Ancillary equipment (e.g., lab support devices, refrigeration units, diagnostic equipment)
  • Ensure door-to-door shipment visibility, tracking milestones, and resolving delays proactively
  • Support formal and informal customs clearance processes, including pre-alerts and entry preparation

Operational Support & Systems

  • Process and release orders within ERP/Logistics systems
  • Maintain shipment queues, resolve holds, and correct discrepancies in open shipment reports
  • Utilize internal platforms and tools (ERP, shipment management systems, courier software)
  • Support data integrity for Importer of Record (IOR) documentation and country-specific requirements

Cross-Functional Communication

  • Partner with Project Managers, Clinical Supply Teams, and Distribution Associates to ensure shipment readiness and compliance
  • Communicate with freight forwarders, small parcel carriers, and customs brokers to resolve shipment issues
  • Guide internal teams and clients on export requirements and best practices

Continuous Improvements & Compliance

  • Identify process improvement opportunities in export workflow and documentation accuracy
  • Support audits, internal reviews, and quality initiatives related to global logistics and trade compliance
  • Maintain working knowledge of evolving international trade regulations affecting clinical supply chains

Requirements

Education & Experience

  • Associate's degree or equivalent experience required; Bachelor's degree preferred
  • 2-4 years of experience in:
    • International logistics
    • Export compliance
    • Small parcel shipping operations (preferred)

Technical Skills

  • Familiarity with:
    • Export regulations (EAR, OFAC, Census requirements)
    • HTS/Schedule B classification
    • INCOTERMS 2020
    • Experience with ERP Systems and logistics/shipping platforms
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word)

Core Competencies

  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in documentation
  • Ability to manage multiple high-priority, time-sensitive shipments
  • Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
  • Effective communication skills across internal and external stakeholders
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
  • Customer-focused mindset with strong follow-up discipline

Work Environment:

  • Fast-paced logistics and operations environment supports global clinical trial timelines
  • Regular coordination across multiple time zones
  • Moderate noise level consistent with office or warehouse support setting
  • Occasional lifting (up to 50lbs) and interaction with packaged shipment materials
  • Able to move a 500 lbs. pallet of goods with a pallet jack

Key Success Factors:

  • Zero compliance violations or documentation errors impacting customs clearance
  • On-time delivery performance for international shipments
  • Strong collaboration with project and logistics teams
  • Continuous improvement mindset in export processes and shipments
  • Responsibility to adhere to the Imperial Quality Policy Statement

About the Company

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Imperial Clinical Research Services