Job Description

Requisition Number: 73547

The company built on breakthroughs. ​ 
Join us.​ 

Corning is one of the world’s leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what’s possible.  ​ 

How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations – not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward. ​ 

​At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.​  

​Come break through with us. 

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.

A job that shapes a life.

Corning offers you the total package.

Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.

• Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.

• As part of our commitment to your financial well-being and in addition to full Mexico statutory benefits, we offer food coupons that ease daily costs, and a structured savings fund to support your long-term financial goals.

• Salaried employees are eligible for comprehensive medical and dental coverage. Additionally, all employees are covered by company-sponsored life insurance, total permanent disability protection, paid time off, and have access to our Employee Assistance Program to support you and your family.

• Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That’s why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions.

Corning is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and considers requests for reasonable accommodations in accordance with applicable laws. Individuals with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs may request reasonable accommodations to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or access other benefits and privileges of employment. To submit a request for reasonable accommodation related to disability or religion, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com