Customs Compliance Specialist - Guidant Global : Job Details

Customs Compliance Specialist - Aalto

Location: Farnborough, UK (Full-time)

Contract: 6 months

Pay: £29.89 per hour (PAYE) / £40.00 per hour (Umbrella)

Hours: 37 per week

Security Clearance: BPSS+ (arranged by AALTO)

Shape the Future of Connectivity with AALTO & Guidant Global

At AALTO, we're redefining what's possible in the skies. As pioneers in High-Altitude Platform Station (HAPS) technology, our solar-powered Zephyr aircraft operate above 60,000 feet, delivering world-leading connectivity and earth observation solutions. We're committed to innovation, sustainability, and connecting communities worldwide.

Join us and become part of a passionate, diverse team that's pushing boundaries and shaping a future of boundless possibilities.

About the Role

As a Customs Compliance Specialist, you'll play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and compliant movement of goods across borders. You'll work closely with colleagues across departments and external partners to manage import and export processes, classify shipments, and maintain customs compliance. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

What You'll Be Doing

Customs Compliance & Classification

• Develop and implement global customs compliance processes.
• Deliver in-person training on customs topics to various teams.
• Accurately classify products using Harmonised Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes.
• Review and classify inbound shipments for accurate customs declarations.
• Record and track packaging data for UK Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) reporting.
• Obtain Type Approval Certificates and other regulatory clearances.
• Ensure compliance with UK and international customs requirements.
• Create standard operating procedures for customs brokers and third-party logistics providers.
• Manage temporary shipments to avoid double duty payments.

Import & Export Coordination

• Liaise with customs brokers in the UK and Kenya to ensure correct importation procedures and documentation.
• Coordinate with export teams to secure all necessary licences and clearances.

Financial Reconciliation

• Work with finance and tax teams to reconcile quoted duties with actual payments.
• Validate purchase orders related to duty and customs payments.

Licence & Record Management

• Maintain accurate records of licences and manage their renewal.

Collaboration & Communication

• Act as the main point of contact between internal teams and external customs brokers.
• Stay up to date with customs regulations and industry best practice.
• Collaborate with the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) team to ensure all compliance information is up to date.
• Support logistics in updating the Product Matrix with current classifications.

What We're Looking For

• Experience in customs compliance, international trade, or a related field (experience valued over formal qualifications).
• Strong knowledge of HTS codes, import/export regulations, and customs procedures.
• Familiarity with Type Approval Certification and export/import licensing.
• Experience working with customs brokers, third-party logistics providers, and regulatory agencies.
• Proficiency in ERP and PLM systems is a plus.
• Experience in engineering, manufacturing, or production environments (not freight forwarding).
• In-house customs experience, with the ability to review and manage classification.
• Experience working with international markets; experience in Kenya is a bonus.

Ready to take your career to new heights? Apply today and join us on our journey to connect the world from the stratosphere!