Regulatory and Export Compliance Attorney

Overview

A leading aerospace and defense organization is seeking a Regulatory and Export Compliance Attorney to serve as the primary in-house expert on export controls, trade compliance, and related regulatory obligations. This role involves designing, implementing, and overseeing the export and international regulatory compliance framework, providing strategic and operational legal advice to leadership and cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead export compliance matters involving ITAR and EAR regulations
• Act as the designated Empowered Official for the organization
• Conduct export classification and jurisdiction determinations
• Develop, negotiate, and manage Technical Assistance Agreements (TAAs) and Manufacturing License Agreements (MLAs)
• Advise on technology transfers related to R&D, engineering, manufacturing, testing, and sustainment
• Ensure compliance with OFAC sanctions and embargo programs
• Provide guidance on restricted parties, restricted countries, and complex cross-border transactions
• Assess export control and sanctions considerations in proposal reviews and government contracts, including FAR and DFARS clauses
• Ensure compliance flowdowns in subcontracts and supplier agreements
• Advise program teams on export and foreign national access requirements during contract performance
• Provide counsel on Foreign Military Sales (FMS) and Direct Commercial Sales (DCS) compliance
• Support compliance with end-use, end-user, and re-transfer restrictions
• Assist with Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) assessments and mitigation
• Advise on intersections between export controls and classified information requirements
• Manage compliance risks involving classified and controlled unclassified information
• Oversee trade compliance aspects of supplier, agent, distributor, and intermediary relationships
• Implement and manage third-party due diligence processes
• Support supply-chain risk assessments
• Advise on Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and related anti-corruption laws in international business contexts
• Continuously review and improve the export compliance program
• Deliver tailored compliance training to internal stakeholders
• Engage with regulators and coordinate regulatory filings as needed
• Monitor regulatory developments and proactively advise leadership on emerging risks
• Collaborate regularly with Security, People, IT, and other internal teams

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school
• Active bar membership in at least one U.S. jurisdiction
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, including substantial in-house and/or Big Law experience focused on export controls and trade compliance
• Demonstrated experience serving as, or acting in the capacity of, an Empowered Official
• Experience supporting aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated technology environments
• Proven ability to serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership and technical teams
• Deep subject matter expertise in ITAR, EAR, OFAC, and related regulatory matters
• Practical experience classifying military equipment, systems, and technical data under the U.S. Munitions List
• Experience conducting jurisdiction and classification analyses involving complex and novel technologies
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills with the ability to develop practical, legally sound solutions
• Ability to navigate ambiguity, balance competing priorities, and translate complex regulations into clear guidance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience at a defense contractor
• Experience supporting classified programs and FOCI mitigation
• Familiarity with Foreign Military Sales and international defense cooperation
• Experience engaging with regulators

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary range: $225,000 to $295,000
• Equity participation
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• HRA/HSA options
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Parental leave

Actual salary and level will be determined based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, location, and experience.

Location & Eligibility

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

Equal Opportunity

The organization is committed to equal employment opportunity in accordance with applicable state and federal laws. Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities or additional needs upon request.

This position will remain open until filled.