Customs Classification Supervisor

Requisition Number: 73546

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Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable, hardware and equipment to being a comprehensive provider of industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry.This segment is classified into two main product groupings – carrier network and enterprise network. The carrier network product group consists primarily of products and solutions for optical-based communications infrastructure for services such as video, data and voice communications. The enterprise network product group consists primarily of optical-based communication networks sold to businesses, governments and individuals for their own use.

Role Purpose

The Classification Lead plays a critical role in coordinating and administering Corning’s global trade compliance product classifications. This includes ensuring full compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies for  HTS (Harmonized Tariff System Classification) and ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) as defined by the Trade Compliance COE.

The role requires collaboration with project Subject Matter Experts (SMEs)—including business engineers—to gather the technical information required for accurate product classification. This position ensures the accuracy, consistency, and compliance of tariff classification processes across all import/export operations, supporting audit readiness and providing strategic guidance to cross‑functional teams in both Mexico and the United States.

Key Responsibilities

Product Classification & Compliance

• Execute HTS and ECCN classifications using technical and relevant data to determine accurate product classification and/or licensing requirements.
• Perform daily spot checks in SAP/ERP vs. PRISMA/GTS to ensure tariff codes and descriptions are correctly applied prior to customs transmission.
• Manage the technical information required to determine proper product classifications.
• Ensure full compliance with Mexican Customs Law, IMMEX, and U.S. import/export regulations.
• Maintain audit‑ready documentation and proactively identify compliance risks.
• Monitor regulatory changes and update internal classification guidelines accordingly.
• Analyze export control screening results and resolve flagged items.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Operational Support

• Lead quick IT and Operations huddles when discrepancies or system errors arise, implementing immediate corrective actions to prevent shipment delays.
• Collaborate with Procurement, Engineering, Finance, Purchasing, Logistics, Customs, IT, and Legal to align classification practices.
• Validate classification decisions against purchase orders, invoices, and shipment documentation.
• Partner with teams in other countries to validate critical trade compliance data elements.

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise, guide, and mentor classification analysts and auditors.
• Assign work, monitor performance, and ensure timely completion of classification reviews.
• Develop and implement classification procedures, checklists, and training programs.
• Provide executive‑level reporting and summaries on classification accuracy, risks, and corrective actions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, International Trade, Customs, Logistics, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in tariff classification, customs compliance, or trade operations.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. and Mexican Customs Law, IMMEX, and U.S. import/export controls.
• Proven leadership experience in compliance or audit teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English and Spanish.
• Advanced skills in Excel, dashboards, database management, and compliance tracking tools.
• Experience with Global Trade Management Systems (GTS E4H, PRISMA, or similar).
• Strong organizational, time‑management, and prioritization skills.

Competencies

• Detail‑oriented with strong analytical capability.
• Ability to translate regulatory requirements into actionable processes.
• Proactive educator and mentor, promoting compliance awareness across teams.
• Demonstrated leadership and ability to influence cross‑functional groups.