Role Overview

As a Customs and Trade Operations Specialist at Arrow Electronics in Budapest, Hungary, you will step into a pivotal role that safeguards our global supply chain operations. Arrow Electronics, a titan in electronic components distribution, relies on experts like you to navigate the complex world of international trade regulations. This position demands a deep understanding of local and regional trade laws, particularly for import and export activities across Europe and beyond. You will serve as the go-to subject matter expert, developing, implementing, and monitoring robust structures, processes, and procedures to ensure unwavering compliance.

Imagine being the guardian of seamless cross-border shipments, where every tariff code, Incoterm, and declaration is meticulously audited under your watch. Your work directly impacts Arrow's ability to deliver value-added services to clients worldwide, from reselling customized electronic components to fostering long-lasting relationships with industry leaders. Located in the vibrant Úllő - Zöldmező area near Budapest, this full-time role in Business Support offers a dynamic entry into a company committed to diversity and equal opportunity.

Your days will involve close collaboration with sites, team members, freight forwarders, and customs brokers, correcting anomalies that could delay shipments. You'll provide critical advice on deficiencies, recommend training, and pinpoint opportunities for organizational enhancements. With fluency in English and Hungarian essential, you'll communicate effectively, documenting issues and delivering monthly audit reports that keep our operations ahead of regulatory curves like CBAM and EUDR.

Day in the Life

A typical day for a Customs and Trade Operations Specialist at Arrow Electronics in Budapest begins with a review of overnight shipment logs from global partners. By 9 AM, you're diving into auditing customs declarations, scrutinizing tariff codes for accuracy and ensuring Incoterms align with contractual terms. Coffee in hand, you flag a potential anomaly in a high-value import from Asia—perhaps a mismatched HS code—and immediately coordinate with the freight forwarder via email and a quick call in Hungarian.

Mid-morning, you join a virtual huddle with the regional team, discussing compliance gaps identified in last week's exports. Your recommendation for targeted training on EUDR regulations is noted, and you schedule a session. Lunch at the modern Úllő facility offers a chance to network in Arrow's open-minded culture, perhaps chatting about the latest CBAM updates over a cafeteria perk-funded meal.

Afternoon brings record-keeping updates and process optimization brainstorming. You document a near-miss customs issue, escalating it to your manager with data-backed insights. By 3 PM, you're compiling the monthly internal audit report, highlighting efficiencies gained from a new digital tracking tool you championed. As the day winds down, you advise a colleague on regulatory documentation for an urgent EU shipment, ensuring everything is compliant before close of business. This rhythm blends independence with teamwork, all while contributing to Arrow's trusted global network.

Why Budapest, Hungary?

Budapest, Hungary's pulsating capital, is more than a backdrop—it's a launchpad for your career in international trade. Nestled along the Danube, this city of two million blends historic grandeur with cutting-edge innovation, making it a hub for logistics and electronics giants like Arrow Electronics. The Úllő - Zöldmező location offers easy access via excellent public transport, just 20 minutes from Budapest's Ferenc Liszt International Airport, ideal for your global-facing role.

Hungary's strategic position in Central Europe positions you at the crossroads of EU trade flows, with Budapest emerging as a key player in supply chain management. The city's thriving tech scene, bolstered by a skilled bilingual workforce fluent in English and Hungarian, mirrors your qualifications perfectly. Cost of living is remarkably affordable compared to Western Europe—think world-class thermal baths, ruin pubs, and Michelin-starred dining at a fraction of Vienna or Munich prices.

Professionally, Budapest's pro-business environment, low corporate taxes, and EU membership amplify opportunities in customs and trade. Arrow's presence here taps into Hungary's manufacturing boom, from automotive to electronics, ensuring your expertise is in high demand. Culturally, the welcoming Hungarian spirit, vibrant festivals like Sziget, and proximity to Vienna and Prague make it an unbeatable base for work-life balance in a diverse, international setting.

Career Growth Path

At Arrow Electronics, your journey as a Customs and Trade Operations Specialist in Budapest is just the beginning. Excel in compliance mastery, and you'll advance to Senior Specialist within 18-24 months, leading regional audits and training programs. From there, paths diverge to Customs Manager, overseeing multi-site operations, or Trade Compliance Analyst, diving into global strategy.

Arrow invests in your growth with certifications like Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) and exposure to advanced EU regulations. High performers transition to roles in Supply Chain Optimization or International Logistics Director, leveraging Budapest's hub status. Mentorship from seasoned leaders, cross-functional projects, and global rotations propel you toward executive tracks, all within a company that values long-term relationships.

Compensation & Benefits

Earning between $55,000 and $75,000 USD annually (equivalent in HUF, adjusted for local market), this role offers competitive pay reflecting Budapest's cost structure and your specialized skills. Arrow's cafeteria package includes flexible benefits like meal vouchers, health contributions, and leisure allowances. Broader perks encompass employee assistance programs, performance incentives, and retirement matching.

Enjoy 25+ days of paid vacation, hybrid flexibility post-onboarding, and wellness initiatives from gym subsidies to mental health support. Arrow's open-minded culture fosters inclusion, with ERGs, diversity training, and equal opportunity policies ensuring your voice matters.

Team & Culture

Arrow's Budapest team is a mosaic of logistics pros, blending Hungarian precision with international flair. Expect collaborative huddles, innovation workshops, and celebrations of milestones in a trusting environment. As part of Arrow Global Components, you'll thrive in a network-driven culture prioritizing relationships with suppliers and clients worldwide.

How to Apply

Ready to secure Arrow's trade compliance in Budapest? Submit your resume and cover letter highlighting customs experience via our careers portal. Interviews include a compliance scenario and language proficiency check. Join us in shaping global electronics distribution.

FAQ Section

Q: Is Hungarian fluency mandatory? Yes, for local coordination, alongside English.

Q: What's the work arrangement? Full-time onsite in Úllő - Zöldmező, with potential hybrid.

Q: Any relocation support? Available for qualified international candidates.

Q: What CBAM/EUDR experience is needed? Practical knowledge; training provided.

Q: Salary in HUF? Equivalent to $55K-$75K USD, plus benefits.

Q: Career progression timeline? Promotions every 1-2 years based on performance.

Q: Team size? Part of a 20+ member logistics group.

Q: Visa sponsorship? For EU-eligible; check with HR.

Q: Onboarding process? 2-week orientation with compliance deep-dive.

Q: Diversity commitment? Strong; equal opportunity employer.