CONTRACT POSITION | 1099 INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR | ONE-YEAR TERM
Licensed Customs Broker & Import Compliance Specialist
Company: HVAC Distributing / MRCOOL Location: Hickory, KY (remote-eligible) Engagement: 1099 Contract – One Year
Opportunity Summary
HVAC Distributing — the import and distribution arm of MRCOOL, one of the fastest-growing HVAC brands in North America — is seeking an experienced, U.S. Customs-licensed import broker and trade compliance expert for a one-year independent contractor engagement. This role is central to our supply chain operations, ensuring that all imported goods, components, and finished HVAC products move through customs accurately, efficiently, and in full regulatory compliance.
The ideal candidate brings deep hands-on experience with U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) entry processing, HTS classification, tariff management (including Section 301), and AIM Act / refrigerant transition compliance. Experience with HVAC or consumer durable goods imports is a strong plus.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage end-to-end customs entry filing and clearance for imported HVAC products, components, line sets, and refrigerant-related goods
- Perform and validate HTS classification across the full product catalog (~150+ active SKUs); maintain classification records and support any CBP audit or inquiry
- Monitor and advise on Section 301 tariff exposure, exclusion opportunities, and cost mitigation strategies
- Ensure compliance with AIM Act refrigerant regulations and the transition from R-410A to R-454B across applicable product lines
- Coordinate with overseas suppliers (primarily China-based) and domestic freight forwarders to align shipping documentation, commercial invoices, and entry data
- Support ongoing Department of Commerce trade investigations; liaise with outside trade counsel as needed
- Identify and communicate tariff and regulatory risk proactively; provide scenario analysis for sourcing or pricing decisions
- Maintain up-to-date SOPs for import processes; provide training to internal operations and supply chain staff
- Track regulatory changes (CBP, DOC, USTR, EPA) and assess impact on MRCOOL’s import program
- Assist with FTZ, bonded warehouse, or duty drawback strategies as opportunities arise
Required Qualifications
- Active U.S. Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) credential in good standing
- Minimum 5 years of experience in customs brokerage, trade compliance, or import operations
- Demonstrated expertise in HTS classification, CBP entry procedures (formal and informal), and ISF filing
- Working knowledge of Section 301 tariffs and USTR exclusion processes
- Familiarity with EPA regulations governing refrigerants and the AIM Act (HFC phase-down schedule)
- Strong proficiency with ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) and standard brokerage / trade management platforms
- Excellent written communication skills; ability to present compliance findings and risk summaries to senior leadership
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience importing finished goods or components from China; familiarity with China-origin documentation and supplier coordination
- Background in HVAC, consumer electronics, or durable goods categories
- Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or Certified Classification Specialist (CES) credentials
- Prior experience supporting DOC antidumping / countervailing duty investigations
- Exposure to FTZ operations or duty drawback programs
Engagement Details
This is a one-year, 1099 independent contractor position. The selected specialist will operate as an independent business entity and will be responsible for their own taxes, licensing maintenance, and professional liability. Compensation is negotiable and commensurate with experience and scope. Remote work arrangements will be considered for qualified candidates; periodic on-site collaboration at our Hickory, KY headquarters may be required.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates should apply directly through Indeed. Search for “Licensed Customs Broker” at MRCOOL / HVAC Distributing, or use the link below:
https://indeed.com/cmp/mrcool
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates with an active LCB credential are encouraged to apply promptly.
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Hickory, KY 42051
