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- Tasks: Manage import/export activities and ensure compliance with UK trade regulations.
- Company: Join MacTaggart Scott, a leader in Naval Defence solutions since 1898.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, comprehensive leave policy, and health benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced role with diverse responsibilities.
- Qualifications: Experience in trade compliance and strong attention to detail required.
- Other info: Opportunities for career development and a supportive work environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Join Our Team: Trade Compliance Officer
Location: Loanhead, Edinburgh
Flexible Working Options – 4- or 5-day week
Contract: Permanent
MacTaggart Scott is excited to welcome an experienced Trade Compliance Officer to support our critical import and export activities and help keep our international operations moving. Reporting to the Commercial Director, you’ll partner with our current Trade Compliance Officer to ensure we trade confidently, compliantly, and in line with all UK HMRC and trade compliance regulations. This is a practical, fast-paced role where no two days are the same. You’ll be at the centre of our trade and customs processes, working collaboratively across teams and making a real difference through your attention to detail, initiative, and problem-solving skills.
About Us
For over a century, MacTaggart Scott has played a vital role in supporting the Naval Defence sector, providing integrated solutions from early-stage analysis and design to manufacture, commissioning, and long-term through-life support. Established in 1898, our reputation is built on engineering excellence, innovation, and commitment to continuous improvement.
What is the Job About?
The Trade Compliance Officer plays a key role in ensuring compliant, efficient, and timely movement of goods across borders. The role supports imports and exports under a variety of customs regimes, manages documentation and reporting obligations, liaises with freight forwarders and internal stakeholders, and assists with HMRC and UK Government reporting. Success in this role is measured by maintaining accurate records, ensuring regulatory compliance, supporting business operations, and contributing to smooth and cost-effective trade activities across the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day import and export activities in line with UK trade compliance and HMRC requirements.
- Prepare, review, and maintain accurate import/export documentation under customs supervision.
- Liaise with freight forwarders, despatch, and internal teams to support clearances, invoicing, and timely shipments.
- Support imports and exports under Home Use, Customs Warehousing (CW), Inward Processing (IP), and Outward Processing (OP).
- Manage licence-controlled activities including Travel Letters, CUTs, approval checks, and SPIRE/LITE applications.
- Maintain shipping and customs records, supporting licence returns, Bills of Discharge, HMRC reports (including 1507), and audits.
- Assist with regulatory reporting and submissions to HMRC and other UK Government departments.
- Review HMRC reports and support Finance with accurate processing of customs invoices and costs.
- Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, promoting trade compliance awareness and best practice.
- Support compliance monitoring, audits, and import/export planning aligned to business objectives.
- Continue to develop trade compliance knowledge through ongoing learning and professional development.
About You
You are a detail focused and motivated trade compliance professional who enjoys playing a vital role in keeping complex operations running smoothly. With experience in a manufacturing environment, you are comfortable working within established processes, communicating with stakeholders at all levels, and managing detailed administrative tasks with accuracy and professionalism.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
- Proven experience in a Trade Compliance role within a manufacturing environment.
- Demonstrable knowledge of UK Trade Compliance and HMRC requirements.
- Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to work.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Strong problem-solving capability.
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office tools.
- A proactive, “can-do” attitude with enthusiasm and motivation.
- Ability to build effective working relationships internally and externally.
Your Future at MacTaggart Scott – What We Offer
- Flexible Working: Choose a 4- or 5-day week with flexible hours (07:00–19:00, core hours 09:30–15:30).
- Comprehensive Leave Policy including annual leave, paid parental leave, and military reservist leave.
- Career Development & Learning Support through our dedicated Learning and Development team.
- Wellbeing Programmes including an Employee Assistance Programme, online wellbeing resources, and onsite nurse.
- Health & Lifestyle Benefits such as life insurance, sick pay, free flu jabs, and a cycle-to-work scheme.
- Financial & Recognition Rewards including a company pension and a generous employee referral scheme.
- Convenience & Facilities: free onsite parking, canteen, and employee discounts.
Trade Compliance Officer employer: MacTaggart, Scott and Company
Contact Detail:
MacTaggart, Scott and Company Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Compliance Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the trade compliance field on LinkedIn or at industry events. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK trade compliance and HMRC regulations. We want to see you shine, so practice answering questions about your experience and how you handle compliance challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your problem-solving skills! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've tackled compliance issues in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to think on your feet and adapt to changing regulations.
✨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 are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Compliance Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Trade Compliance Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in trade compliance and any specific knowledge of UK HMRC 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 trade compliance and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention any specific experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: In this role, attention to detail is key. When filling out your application, double-check for any typos or errors. We appreciate candidates who take the time to ensure their application is polished and professional.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company there!
How to prepare for a job interview at MacTaggart, Scott and Company
✨Know Your Trade Compliance Stuff
Make sure you brush up on UK trade compliance and HMRC regulations before the interview. Familiarise yourself with the specific customs regimes mentioned in the job description, like Home Use and Inward Processing. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also understand the complexities involved.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
Since this role requires a keen eye for detail, prepare examples from your past experience where your attention to detail made a difference. Whether it was managing documentation or ensuring compliance, having concrete examples ready will help you stand out.
✨Be Ready to Problem-Solve
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of scenarios where you had to tackle compliance issues or streamline processes. Practising how you articulate these experiences can demonstrate your proactive attitude and capability to handle challenges.
✨Build Relationships, Even in the Interview
The ability to build strong relationships is key in this role. During the interview, engage with your interviewers and ask insightful questions about their teams and processes. This not only shows your interest but also gives them a taste of your interpersonal skills.