Export Control & Customs Compliance Lead - Defense

At TYTAN
, we aim to set a global standard in autonomous air defense with AI-driven, cost-efficient systems that counter unmanned aerial threats  protect people. We protect critical infrastructure. We protect Europe’s sovereignty.

We are looking for an Export Control & Customs Compliance Lead whose has understanding of defense product related export control and customs regulation to ensure full compliance with export control, customs, and trade regulations across our operations.

The role works closely with Logistics, Procurement, Production, and Engineering
, while owning all export control and customs compliance topics within the Operations team
, specifically related to the production and international movement of KWL-controlled goods
. You will act as the subject matter expert for both export control and customs
, ensuring compliant classification, licensing, customs processes, and documentation across the entire operational value chain.

Your Roadmap to Make an Impact

• Ensure compliance with German, EU, and international export control regulations
  , including AWG, AWV, EU Dual-Use Regulation, and applicable international regimes.
• Own export control topics for KWL-controlled goods
  , including classification, licensing, documentation, and audit readiness.
• Classify products, components, software, and technology (e.g.
  KWL, ECCN, HS
  ) in cooperation with Engineering and Product Management.
• Determine licensing requirements, apply for and manage export licenses, and conduct embargo, sanctions, and restricted party screenings.

Customs & Import / Export Operations

• Ensure compliance with customs regulations for imports and exports, including tariff classification (HS), customs valuation, origin determination, and preference management.
• Coordinate customs processes with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and authorities.
• Review and approve customs documentations and manage customs-related authorizations and procedures (e.g. simplified procedures, AEO where applicable).

Operations & Supply Chain Collaboration

• Work closely with Logistics, Production Planning and Procurement to ensure compliant material flow.
• Advise Operations on compliance implications for manufacturing, internal transfers, re-exports, and technology access
  .
• Support onboarding of new suppliers and logistics partners and ensure export control and customs requirements are embedded into operational workflows and ERP systems.
• Support item onboarding to ensure data quality across the product life-cycle.

Process Ownership & Governance

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve export control and customs processes, SOPs, and work instructions within Operations.
• Maintain complete and audit-ready documentation, records, and prepare and support internal and external audits, and authority requests.
• Act as the main point of contact for export control and customs authorities and external advisors.
• Act as a lead for export control and customs department. Train and advise employees in Operations, Supply Chain, and Logistics on export control and customs requirements.
• Monitor regulatory changes and assess their impact on different processes and act as escalation point and decision-maker for complex compliance cases.

Job requirements

• 6+ years of experience in defense product export control, customs, or trade compliance in the defense area
  .
• Strong knowledge of German export control regulations (AWG, AWV, KWL) and customs law
  ; EU Dual-Use Regulation required, understanding of US EAR/ITAR is also important .
• Understanding of export control and customs rules for defense product is a must have.
• Experience with KWL-controlled goods and complex international supply chains.
• Hands-on experience with customs classification, valuation, origin, and broker coordination.
• High level of ownership, structured working style, and attention to detail.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Fluency in German and English (written and spoken).

Why TYTAN?

• Build technology with real operational impact: Develop autonomous defence systems designed to protect lives and strengthen Europe’s security
• Shape scalable defence capabilities: Work on solutions built for mass deployment, cost efficiency,…