Trade Compliance Attorney

Located in the heart of Central Ohio, Illuminate USA is transforming solar panel manufacturing from our cutting-edge facility in Pataskala. As a new standalone joint venture established by two global leaders in renewable energy, we've rapidly grown to over 1,500 associates and are now fully operational in our 1.1 million-square-foot factory. Our vision is to establish one of the largest solar panel manufacturing operations in the Western Hemisphere.

This is an exciting time to join Illuminate USA as we continue to grow and innovate. We're not just building solar panels-we're building a team of dedicated, passionate associates eager to make a real impact. If you're looking to be part of a collaborative, people-focused, and forward-thinking workplace, we want to hear from you!

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and continuous opportunities for career growth. Come join us on this journey to create a brighter, more sustainable future in the Columbus area.

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Trade Compliance Attorney to support the company's import compliance operations. This role will serve as a legal advisor on U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) matters, ADD/CVD, trade regulations and international import laws. The attorney will work closely with customs brokerage firms, internal stakeholders, and government agencies to ensure full compliance with applicable laws and regulations, while supporting strategic initiatives related to supply chain traceability, tariff management, and trade remedy matters.

Key Responsibilities:

Legal & Regulatory Compliance

Provide legal counsel on U.S. import laws, CBP regulations, and international trade compliance.

Respond to CBP detentions, Requests for Information (RFIs), Notices of Action, and other enforcement actions.

Monitor and interpret changes in tariffs, Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classifications, and trade agreements.

Manage anti-dumping and countervailing duty (AD/CVD) investigations and proceedings before the International Trade Commission and the Department of Commerce Operational Oversight & Risk Management

Collaborate with customs brokerage firms to ensure accurate and timely import declarations.

Oversee and support licensed customs analysts and ensure proper classification and valuation of imported goods

Conduct internal audits and assessments to verify compliance with import documentation and recordkeeping requirements

Stay abreast of industry trends, regulatory developments, and geopolitical changes affecting trade compliance.

Conduct risk assessments related to import activities and develop mitigation strategies.

Advise on trade compliance risks associated with new products, suppliers, and markets.

Support the development and implementation of trade compliance programs and internal policies.

Support resolution of trade disputes and responding to government enforcement. Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with supply chain, procurement, and logistics teams to ensure traceability and regulatory compliance across the supply chain.

Lead training initiatives to educate internal teams on trade compliance best practices and regulatory updates Qualifications:

Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school; active bar membership required.

Minimum 5 years of experience in trade compliance law.

Deep knowledge of CBP regulations, HTS classification, AD/CVD trade remedies laws, and international trade agreements.

Experience managing customs brokers and licensed analysts.

Strong analytical, communication, and negotiation skills.

Familiarity with trade compliance software systems is a plus.

Prior US Government experience is a plus.

At Illuminate USA, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity for all, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Your unique background and experiences are valued here, as we believe they strengthen our team and drive our mission forward

Illuminate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.