Customs Specialist

Job Description:

Customs Specialist – 12-Month Fixed Term Contract
Location: Derby, Hybrid (Up to 2 Days WFH after Probation)
Hours: 39 per week (Flexible Start between 6am–10am, finish time adjusted accordingly)
Salary: £45,000 - £48,000 (Depending on experience)

Are you detail-driven, process-focused, and have a solid grasp of customs procedures? SF Recruitment are working with a leading manufacturing business to find a Customs Specialist who can hit the ground running in this newly formed role.

This is a unique opportunity to step into a standalone customs role within a well-established global business. The customs function has been successfully developed in recent years, and now the business is looking for someone to continue driving it forward. With a comprehensive handover and plenty of support available, you'll be set up for success from day one.

What you’ll be doing:

• Take ownership of the overall customs process, primarily focused on imports of production parts (exports are very minimal).
• Liaise with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and internal teams to ensure smooth and compliant operations.
• Handle import declarations and ensure accurate data submissions to HMRC using the Ricardo system.
• Collaborate with an internal support team member who manages the basic day-to-day customs admin.
• Maintain high standards of compliance, accuracy, and attention to detail, following internal policies and procedures.
• Be aware of relevant regulations, including the Plastic Packaging Tax, although deep tax expertise is not required.
• Daily tracking of inbound shipments on Excel
• Monitor the busy Customs email inbox, resolve queries or escalate
• Provide clearance information to Fast Parcel operators
• Support with Inward processing (IP) daily processing and monthly reporting
• Prepare Export instructions and pro forma invoices for all loads leaving the UK.

What we’re looking for:

• A 2:1 degree or higher (in any subject).
• Some prior customs knowledge – such as import declarations, working with brokers, or freight forwarders.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage compliance-driven processes.
• Someone who can quickly learn company-specific systems and ways of working.
• A genuine interest in customs, import processes, and operational accuracy.
• Candidates who are immediately available or on a short notice period period

Why this role?

• It’s a specialist role with real ownership, supported by a small internal team.
• You’ll join a process-led, compliance-focused environment where your knowledge will have a direct impact.
• Great flexibility: choose a start time between 6:00am and 10:00am in 15-minute increments.
• After 3 months, you can work from home up to 2 days per week.
• Based within the finance function, you’ll benefit from a structured, process-driven team culture.

What to expect from the process:

• One-stage interview process
• Psychometric testing will be issued to shortlisted candidates ahead of interviews.

Interested?
If you’re someone with customs experience looking for a 12-month challenge with great flexibility and real impact, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today for immediate consideration