Global Trade Compliance Specialist

Zero Motorcycles is looking for a Global Trade Compliance Specialist to join our team in the Netherlands. This position will contribute to Zero's success by assisting in the continuous improvement of the company's customs compliance program across both EU and US operations, ensuring all applicable Customs regulations and company policies are abided by. This position will be responsible for classifying product, researching, providing guidance, and responding to customs compliance related questions from internal and external stakeholders for both US and European markets.

Key Responsibilities

Global Customs & Classification

• Serve as a company contact and subject matter expert with internal stakeholders and external service providers including customs brokers, freight forwarders and government agencies for all import/export related inquiries across US and EU operations.

• Ensure proper product classification and accurate country of origin determination for all imported/exported products in accordance with both US and EU rules.

• Maintain classification process documentation, internal systems and classification database for recordkeeping, audit and process improvement purposes across both jurisdictions.

• Keep company appraised of new or modified government regulations in both the US and EU.

• Develop reporting using ACE and EU customs systems, including monthly reporting to gauge activity and duty savings across both jurisdictions.

• Obtain and maintain export records and other trade-related documents, certifications, and licenses for both US and EU operations.

• Monitor and ensure compliance with EU product safety and conformity requirements including CE marking, REACH, RoHS, and  Battery Regulation.

• Conduct internal processes and documentation audits to ensure company compliance with all applicable US and EU import/export regulations and company compliance policies.

US Trade Compliance Programs

• Manage Zero's US Duty Drawback program and regular reconciliations ensuring timely filing and strict compliance with US Customs requirements.

• Research and preparation of US binding rulings, scope rulings, post-entry amendments, CF28 and CF29's.

• Ensure compliance with US export control regulations including EAR (Export Administration Regulations) and ITAR where applicable.

• Manage US trade preference programs including USMCA, free trade agreements, and GSP (Generalized System of Preferences).

EU Trade Compliance Programs

• Oversee Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification maintenance and manage authorizations for special customs procedures including Inward Processing Relief (IPR), Outward Processing, and Customs Warehousing.

• Manage EU duty relief programs, preference documentation under EU Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), and REX (Registered Exporter) system, ensuring compliance with Rules of Origin requirements.

• Ensure compliance with EU dual-use export control regulations (EC 428/2009) and sanctions programs.

• Own research and preparation of Binding Tariff Information (BTI) and Binding Origin Information (BOI) decisions, post-clearance amendments, and customs appeals.

• Ensure compliance with EU customs IT systems including Import Control System (ICS2), Export Control System (ECS), and New Computerized Transit System (NCTS).

• Advanced knowledge of US and EU import/export trade regulations including HTS/CN classification, customs valuation, origin rules, trade preference programs, and supply chain security programs (C-TPAT, AEO).

• Training and demonstrated ability to classify products in accordance with HTSUS, CN/TARIC codes, Binding Rulings/BTI decisions, and Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System.

• Understanding of US regulations (19 CFR) and the Union Customs Code (UCC) and its implementing acts.

• Knowledge of trade defense instruments (Section 301, AD/CVD, anti-dumping measures) and sanctions regimes in both jurisdictions.

• Familiarity with US customs systems (ACE) and EU customs IT systems (PLDA, national customs portals).

• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English and Dutch to accurately document, report and present findings.

• Ability to manage multiple time-sensitive tasks and meet deadlines across multiple regulatory frameworks.

• Advanced proficiency in MS Office applications, including Excel, Word and PowerPoint.

• Ethical dedication to maintaining confidentiality of company trade practices and sensitive information.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3-5 years' experience in international trade compliance with exposure to both US and EU trade compliance; experience in a manufacturing company a plus.

• US Customs Broker License and/or Dutch Customs Agent license or EU Customs Specialist certification strongly preferred.

• Prior experience managing both US and EU Free Trade Agreement compliance and origin determination.

• Knowledge of automotive/electric vehicle specific regulations including US DOT/EPA requirements and EU type approval and battery-related requirements.

• Experience working in a global organization with operations spanning multiple continents.

• Fluency in English and Dutch (required)

• Additional EU languages (German, French) are a plus

Work Schedule

• Ability to accommodate occasional meetings during US business hours (Pacific Time) for coordination with US-based teams.

Why Zero Motorcycles

Zero Motorcycles, a leader and innovator in electric motorcycles and commercial powertrains, incorporates advanced technology, stunning design and commitment to environmental benefits. The EV space is growing dramatically, with Zero a leader in the two-wheel category and a rising star in powertrain applications to other OEMs electrifying sport and utility vehicles for powersport and industrial applications.

At Zero Motorcycles, you’ll join a passionate, fast-growing global team with a truly international spirit. While our roots in the United States, have branched-out to Europe and stablished in The Netherlands, our team now spans across more than 10 countries, representing over 15 nationalities—and counting! We thrive in a multicultural, multilingual environment where fresh ideas are welcomed, big dreams are encouraged, and success is celebrated together.

Our team is united by a shared mission and a love for what we do. Whether we're collaborating across time zones or catching up in the office, you'll find a group that’s driven, committed, and always ready to share a laugh.

We value connection beyond the work itself. From office lunches and Friday drinks to spontaneous barbecues when the sun’s out, and legendary Xmas parties and team-building days, we believe in having fun while we work hard.

Working with Zero Motorcycles, you’ll also have opportunities to represent us at events and trade shows—locally and internationally—if that’s something you enjoy. And as we continue to grow, so can you. We’re invested in your development and success, and we can’t wait to see where your journey with us will take you.

Additionally

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Inclusive and open-door culture with driven, fun colleagues.
• Work in a dynamic, innovative environment leading the EV revolution.