Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

James Jenkins

Claremont,NH

Summary

Trade Compliance Specialist with over 14 years of progressive experience in manufacturing and global customs operations. Proven expertise in HTS and ECCN classification, Free Trade Agreement (FTA) analysis, and origin management across diverse international markets. Adept at interpreting technical documentation, collaborating cross-functionally, and leveraging systems like Oracle and Descartes to ensure compliance and operational efficiency. Skilled in developing automation tools for certificate generation and conducting tariff impact assessments to support strategic decision-making. Recognized for driving audit readiness, broker oversight, and continuous process improvement in global trade environments.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Senior Global Customs Specialist

Hypertherm Associates
10.2023 - Current
  • Prepare and issue Certificates of Origin, including Free Trade Agreement (FTA) certificates such as USMCA, KORUS, ILFTA, and AUSFTA, for individual shipments and blanket requests.
  • Classify manufacturing equipment, components, and accessories in accordance with applicable tariff schedules to ensure accurate import declarations.
  • Analyze and interpret tariff changes impacting imported goods; provide strategic reports to leadership outlining potential cost and compliance implications.
  • Conduct audits of customs broker entries to ensure accuracy and compliance; initiate Post Summary Corrections (PSCs) when discrepancies are identified.
  • Lead monthly performance and compliance review meetings with customs brokers, focusing on key metrics and resolution of outstanding issues.
  • Submit Binding Ruling requests to U.S. Customs and Border Protection to confirm tariff classifications and mitigate risk.
  • Assign and maintain region-specific Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes for global distribution centers, including Europe, Brazil, Singapore, and China.

Global Customs/Export &Trade Compliance Specialist

Hypertherm Associates
01.2020 - 10.2023
  • Support Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) classification for industrial components and assemblies.
  • Review supplier specifications and technical documentation to ensure accurate classification decisions.
  • Conduct annual solicitations to suppliers for updated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) certificates and country of origin declarations; maintain compliance records accordingly.
  • Worked across departments to ensure consistent classification practices.
  • Maintained classification databases and supported internal audits.

Process Support Technician / Machine Operator

Hypertherm Associates
01.2012 - 01.2020
  • Gained hands-on experience in manufacturing processes and product lifecycle.

Education

Associate of Science - Advanced Manufacturing

Columbia College
01.2020

Certificate - Advanced Machine Tool

River Valley Community College
01.2012

Skills

  • HTS & ECCN Classification – Expert in assigning accurate Harmonized Tariff Schedule and Export Control Classification Numbers for industrial components and assemblies
  • FTA Analysis & Qualification – Skilled in analyzing product eligibility under various Free Trade Agreements using product-specific rules of origin and Regional Value Content (RVC) calculations
  • Technical Interpretation – Proficient in reviewing engineering drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and product specifications to support classification and compliance decisions
  • Classification Documentation & Audit Preparedness – Maintain detailed records to support audits, binding ruling submissions, and internal reviews
  • FTA Compliance & Origin Management – Lead annual supplier solicitations for updated FTA certificates and country of origin declarations; ensure documentation accuracy
  • Trade Compliance Systems – Experienced in Oracle and Descartes platforms for managing trade compliance data, including entry of classification and Country of Origin
  • Process Automation – Develop tools and workflows to automate the creation of Certificates of Origin and FTA documentation, enhancing efficiency and reducing manual errors
  • Broker Oversight & Metrics Review – Host monthly broker meetings to review performance metrics, resolve outstanding issues, and ensure compliance

Timeline

Senior Global Customs Specialist

Hypertherm Associates
10.2023 - Current

Global Customs/Export &Trade Compliance Specialist

Hypertherm Associates
01.2020 - 10.2023

Process Support Technician / Machine Operator

Hypertherm Associates
01.2012 - 01.2020

Certificate - Advanced Machine Tool

River Valley Community College

Associate of Science - Advanced Manufacturing

Columbia College

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