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Director, International Trade and Export Control

Herndon, VA; Seattle, WA; Remote-US

Director, International Trade and Export Control

About Us:

BlackSky is a real-time intelligence company. We own and operate the world's most advanced space-based intelligence platform and provide customers satellite imagery, automated analytics and high-frequency monitoring of strategic locations, economic assets and events from around the globe. BlackSky is trusted by the most demanding allied military and intelligence organizations and commercial companies to deliver foresight into critical matters that affect national security and the economy. BlackSky's data enables governments and businesses to see, understand and anticipate change as it happens, giving them the ultimate strategic advantage so they can act quickly. Our global team works with cutting-edge technology to make a difference around the world and prides itself on being people-first, customer-focused and fun.

BlackSky is looking for a dynamic Director, International Trade and Export Control who is able to support all aspect of its business, who is able to support all aspects of its business, including cutting-edge product development, commercial and U.S. government contracting initiatives, satellite constellation operations, and platform and analytic capabilities.. A successful candidate will have hands-on experience working directly with operations, design, and contracting teams, as well as experience working with domestic and foreign customers and U.S. regulators. Experience in the space and defense sector is a benefit.  A successful candidate will  have an eagerness to solve challenging and novel problems and be interested to  help ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations in a dynamic environment.

As a part of our Legal team, your responsibilities are expected to encompass regulatory and export compliance; analysis and advice; training and policy development; communication with regulators; and such other duties as the VP of Legal may determine from time to time. Our main physical offices are located in Herndon, VA or Seattle, WA offices. Although it would be ideal if the candidate is located in or close to the physical offices, it is not a requirement of a position. The position permits remote work in certain states. Travel up to 10% is expected to come to corporate headquarters if remote.

Responsibilities: 

Export Compliance:

  • Develop, implement, and maintain internal compliance policies and procedures to ensure effective export control management, ensuring adherence to ITAR, EAR, OFAC, and other applicable regulations.
  • Prepare/file Commodity Jurisdiction Requests, Commodity Classification Requests, and Advisory Opinions, as needed.
  • Interface directly with government regulatory agencies, including the Departments of State (DDTC) and Commerce (BIS), to manage licensing and regulatory communications.
  • Act as the primary Empowered Official (EO) responsible for export licensing, classification, and compliance oversight.
  • Evaluate contracts, agreements, and transactions for potential export control implications.
  • Perform compliance audits, risk assessments, and investigations, addressing gaps proactively.
  • Keep senior leadership informed of changes in export compliance regulations and implications for business operations.

International Regulatory Compliance:

  • Lead technical and legal review of deliverables, reports, and presentations and provide the business with expert guidance as to broad US and international regulatory compliance.
  • Assist development and product teams with regulatory requirements and filings with US regulatory agencies, such as FCC and NOAA, and international regulatory agencies as required.
  • Organize and compile materials for licenses, including renewals or updates to registration in a timely manner.
  • Support international expansion efforts, to include foreign business registration and maintenance.
  • Other responsibilities as arise.

Required Qualifications:

  • Strong work ethic, mission driven, with ability to effectively balance a diverse workload and shift priorities as required.
  • Advanced Degree Juris Doctorate (master’s in law or international Trade) with 6-10 years’ experience in law, international trade or other related focus.
  • Expertise and extensive practical experience with ITAR and EAR compliance in an aerospace, defense, or similarly regulated industry.
  • Proven commercial and international experience in export controls and regulatory compliance.
  • At least two years in the commercial space or defense sectors.
  • Ability to collaborate in a team environment, while also possessing the ability work accomplish and deliver tasks as a solo contributor.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a strong understanding of audience.
  • Travel: 10% or less with a visit to the Herndon, VA corporate office a minimum of two times a year.
  • Ability to earn trust and maintain positive professional relationships, internally and externally. Capable of operating successfully in a high growth, innovative company.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with NOAA, FCC and NASA for satellite licensing and regulation.
  • Foreign business registration and maintenance.
  • Certifications in trade compliance (e.g., ECoP, CES).

Life at BlackSky for full-time benefits eligible, US-based, employees includes:

  • Medical, dental, vision, disability, group term life and AD&D, voluntary life and AD&D insurance
    • BlackSky pays 100% of employee-only premiums for medical, dental and vision and contributes $100/month for out-of-pocket expenses!
  • 15 days of PTO, 11 Company holidays, four Floating Holidays (pro-rated based on hire date), one day of paid volunteerism leave per year, parental leave and more
  • 401(k) pre-tax and Roth deferral options with employer match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance and Travel Assistance Programs
  • Employer matching donations
  • Professional development
  • Mac or PC? Your choice!
  • Awesome swag

The anticipated salary range for candidates in Seattle, WA is $160,000-175,000 per year. The final compensation package offered to a successful candidate will be dependent on specific background and education. BlackSky is a multi-state employer, and this pay scale may not reflect salary ranges in other states or locations outside of Seattle, WA.

BlackSky is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer All Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

EEO/AAP/ Pay Transparency Statements:

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/OFCCP_EEO_Supplement_Final_JRF_QA_508c.pdf

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