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Senior International Trade Compliance Officer

Huntington Beach, California

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

In this role, you lead Karman’s international trade compliance program and serve as the company’s subject matter expert on export controls. You provide operational oversight, regulatory guidance, and cross-functional support to ensure compliance with U.S. export control laws. You drive licensing activities, training, investigations, and program improvements while partnering closely with teams across the organization to integrate trade compliance into everyday business operations.

Responsibilities

  • Manages day‑to‑day operations of the international trade compliance program, including policies, procedures, internal controls, and compliance records.
  • Develops and maintains Technology Control Plans and facility‑level compliance documentation.
  • Prepares, submits, and manages export licenses, agreements, and regulatory filings with relevant government agencies.
  • Conducts export jurisdiction and classification determinations for products, technical data, and services.
  • Screens international transactions and partners, performs risk‑based due diligence, and evaluates compliance considerations for proposed business activities.
  • Designs, delivers, and tracks trade compliance training and distributes compliance communications to operational teams.
  • Leads internal investigations of potential violations, prepares voluntary self‑disclosures, and supports internal and external audits.
  • Collaborates with cross‑functional teams to provide regulatory guidance and integrate compliance into business processes and proposals.
  • Supports due diligence for mergers and acquisitions, foreign ownership/control/influence (FOCI) matters, and Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) reviews.
  • Provides functional guidance and oversight to coordinators, analysts, and embedded compliance personnel as program needs evolve.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business, International Relations, Engineering, Political Science, or a related field.
  • 8 to 10 years of progressive experience in international trade compliance, export controls, or regulatory affairs, including experience in the defense, aerospace, or space industry.
  • Hands‑on experience with export licensing, jurisdiction requests, and compliance with International Traffic in Arms Regulations and related regulatory frameworks.
  • Experience contributing to or managing a corporate trade compliance program.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LL.M.), Master of Business Administration (MBA), or other relevant advanced degree.
  • Professional certifications such as Certified U.S. Export Compliance Officer (CUSECO) or Certified Customs Specialist (CCS).
  • Experience preparing voluntary self‑disclosures and supporting CMMC assessments, CFIUS reviews, or FOCI mitigation.
  • Experience with defense offset programs, foreign military sales processes, or facility clearance requirements under the National Industrial Security Program.

Physical Requirements

  • Prolonged sitting, sustained computer use, and regular review of regulatory and technical documentation.
  • Ability to work within controlled‑access environments subject to government security protocols. The essential functions of this position must be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

Special Mentions

  • Moderate travel up to 15%, including occasional international travel.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Company‑paid life and AD\&D insurance
  • Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
  • Tuition reimbursement

Salary Range

$145,000 - $190,000 USD

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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