Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage import/export compliance and ensure adherence to trade regulations.
- Company: Join a growing defence manufacturing organisation in York.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus potential, pension scheme, and employee assistance programme.
- Why this job: Be part of a crucial role in a dynamic industry with real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in compliance roles and strong knowledge of UK regulations.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and hybrid options post-probation.
The predicted salary is between 40527 - 43700 £ per year.
Location: York, North Yorkshire YO1
Hours: Full‑time, 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £40,527 basic - £43,700 per annum including annual 8% bonus
The Opportunity
Hawk 3 Talent Solutions have an exciting opportunity for an Import and Export Compliance Specialist to join a growing organisation within the defence manufacturing sector based in York, North Yorkshire. This is a newly created role, developed as a result of business growth, bringing together responsibilities that were previously shared across multiple teams. This position plays a key role in developing and managing import and export compliance activities, ensuring adherence to UK and international trade regulations and supporting business operations end‑to‑end from sales through to dispatch.
Working Pattern
- Flexible start and finish times between 7:00am–9:00am and 3:00pm–5:00pm
- On‑site role during the initial 6‑month probation due to training and relationship‑building requirements
- Hybrid working available post‑probation
The hiring manager is based in the United States, so applicants must be comfortable working independently and collaborating across UK and US time zones.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and maintain import/export systems and processes to meet regulatory and business requirements
- Manage export licences, including Standard and Open General (OGEL) licences, covering military and dual‑use technologies
- Oversee import and export documentation, including customs declarations, bills of lading, and licences
- Coordinate with internal teams such as Sales, Engineering, Production, Purchasing, Logistics and Finance
- Work closely with suppliers, freight forwarders, brokers, customs officials and regulatory bodies
- Complete internal and external audits, HMRC compliance reporting and maintain compliance registers
- Classify products, research regulatory requirements and support shipment clearance activities
- Maintain and manage compliance systems and escalation processes
- Provide compliance training and guidance to employees
- Keep up to date with international trade regulations and complete ongoing CPD
About You
Essential
- Experience in a similar compliance or import/export role
- Strong knowledge of UK legal and regulatory requirements, including export controls, REACH and RoHS
- Experience conducting audits, managing documentation, data analysis and report writing
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work collaboratively across functions while managing priorities independently
Desirable
- Experience within a manufacturing or defence‑related environment
- Familiarity with ERP systems
- Relevant degree or compliance‑related certification
Security & Eligibility Requirements
- Be a UK or NATO citizen with the right to work in the UK
- Be comfortable working within the defence industry
- Be willing to sign the Official Secrets Act
- Successfully complete BPSS clearance
Benefits
- Competitive salary of £40,527
- 8% bonus potential
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Free on‑site parking
- Pension scheme: Employee 5%, Employer 3%
- Company events
Import and Export Compliance Specialist employer: HAWK3 Talent Solutions
Contact Detail:
HAWK3 Talent Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Import and Export Compliance Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the defence manufacturing sector, especially those who work in compliance. Use LinkedIn to connect and engage with them; you never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK and international trade regulations. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role's responsibilities, especially around managing export licences and compliance systems.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through real-life examples during interviews. Talk about specific situations where you've successfully managed compliance activities or navigated complex regulatory requirements. This will help us see your value!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Import and Export Compliance Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Import and Export Compliance Specialist role. Highlight your relevant experience in compliance, import/export processes, and any specific knowledge of UK regulations. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your ability to work independently and across time zones, as that’s key for us.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written and verbal communication is essential for this position, make sure your application reflects that. Keep your language clear and professional, and don’t hesitate to demonstrate your ability to collaborate with various teams.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive, which we love!
How to prepare for a job interview at HAWK3 Talent Solutions
✨Know Your Regulations
Make sure you brush up on UK and international trade regulations before the interview. Being able to discuss specific compliance requirements, like export controls and REACH, will show that you're serious about the role and understand the industry's nuances.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous roles in import/export compliance. Highlight any experience with managing documentation, conducting audits, or working with customs officials. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've successfully navigated challenges in past positions.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since this role involves collaboration across teams and time zones, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to explain complex compliance issues in a way that's easy for others to understand, showcasing your excellent communication skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company's compliance processes and how they handle regulatory changes. This not only shows your interest in the role but also demonstrates your proactive approach to understanding the business's needs.