FTZ Coordinator

Main Purpose:

The Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) Coordinator is responsible for overseeing and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements applicable to the operation of Foreign Trade Zone-designated fuel import terminals in the United States. This role manages the documentation, reporting, and control processes required by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and other regulatory entities, ensuring the accurate and timely recording of product movements, inventory levels, and transactional records. The position supports operational efficiency by coordinating with terminal operations, compliance, and finance teams to maintain the integrity of FTZ operations, minimize compliance risk, and optimize duty-related cost benefits.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities, Key Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities:

1- FTZ Compliance and Documentation

- Maintain accurate and up-to-date FTZ records in accordance with CBP regulations, including admissions, withdrawals, transfers, and inventory reports.

- Prepare and submit required CBP filings, including e214, CBP Form 216, weekly entry summaries, and annual reports.

- Ensure timely and accurate reconciliation between CBP filings, physical inventory, and terminal records.

- Maintain all FTZ permits, activation letters, and correspondence with CBP and FTZ Board.

- Monitor compliance with FTZ regulations and promptly address any discrepancies or potential violations.

- Active support to Finance department for SURI clearance and additional cost related.

2- Product Movement and Inventory Control

- Track inbound and outbound movements of fuel products within the FTZ, ensuring proper classification, documentation, and reporting.

- Coordinate with operations, shipping agents, and surveyors to verify bills of lading, manifests, and inspection reports.

- Support cycle counts and physical inventory verifications, investigating and resolving discrepancies.

- Ensure proper tracking and labeling of FTZ and non-FTZ inventory.

3- Coordination and Communication

- Act as the primary liaison between the terminal and CBP for all FTZ-related matters.

- Coordinate with finance and tax departments on duty deferral, duty elimination and drawback opportunities.

- Provide guidance to terminal staff on FTZ procedures, documentation requirements, and compliance controls.

4- Reporting and Auditing

- Prepare and submit periodic compliance and performance reports to internal management.

- Support internal and external audits, ensuring timely provision of records and corrective action implementation.

- Maintain a comprehensive and organized archive of all FTZ records for the required retention period.

6- Physical Demands:

- Ability to work in an office environment with periodic visits to terminal operations areas, including outdoor and marine environments.

- May require standing, walking, climbing stairs, and carrying documents or portable equipment (up to 25 lbs).

7- Working Conditions:

- Primarily office-based with regular exposure to terminal operations, including marine dock areas, fuel storage tanks, and loading racks.

- Potential exposure to petroleum products, fumes, and outdoor weather conditions when on-site.

8- Equipment and Tools:

- Computer systems with FTZ and customs software (e.g., e214 filing systems).

- Standard office equipment (scanners, printers, filing systems).

- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when in operational areas.

Requirements:

Experience:

- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, International Trade, or related field preferred.

- Minimum of 3 years of experience in FTZ operations, customs compliance, or fuel terminal operations. (preferred)

- Experience working with U.S. CBP regulations and FTZ Board requirements. (preferred)

Skills:

- Ability to learn about U.S. Customs regulations, HTS classifications, and FTZ program benefits.

- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and customs/FTZ filing platforms.

- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

- Effective written and verbal communication skills in English.

Competencies:

- High ethical standards and commitment to regulatory compliance.

- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

- Strong organizational skills and meticulous record-keeping.

- Proactive approach to identifying and mitigating compliance risks.

Key Relationships and Department Overview:

- Internal - Terminal Operations personnel, Compliance/FTZ Administration, HSE personnel, Finance, Trading.

- External – U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Foreign Trade Zone Board, shipping agents, surveyors, third-party auditors, others.