Export Compliance Principal Specialist

Safran companies; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Safran companies is seeking an Export Compliance Principal Specialist in Irvine, California to support their export compliance program. The role includes reviewing documentation, preparing license applications, and ensuring adherence to U.S. and international trade regulations.

The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of experience in compliance or international trade and must possess strong analytical and communication skills. Knowledge of ITAR and EAR regulations is essential.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience.
• Experience in compliance, logistics, or international trade is preferred.
• Understanding of U.S. export control regulations (ITAR, EAR).

Responsibilities

• Review export documentation for compliance with regulations.
• Develop and oversee the company's compliance strategy.
• Conduct export jurisdiction and classification determinations.
• Investigate potential compliance issues and document findings.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Project management

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Business or related field

Tools

Export compliance software (e.g., QAD, SAP)

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Job Summary

The Export Compliance Principal Specialist will support the company's export compliance program by ensuring adherence to U.S. and international trade regulations, including ITAR, EAR, OFAC sanctions, and other global export control frameworks. The role drives compliance strategy, manages complex regulatory changes, and serves as a subject matter expert while collaborating cross‑functionally to align compliance efforts with business objectives.

Essential Job Functions

• Review export documentation, including shipping records, licenses, and agreements, to ensure compliance with federal and international regulations.
• Prepare and submit export license applications and other regulatory filings.
• Conduct export jurisdiction and classification determinations.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to export transactions and compliance activities.
• Screen for restricted parties among customers, vendors, and partners.
• Collaborate with internal departments (e.g., sales, shipping, engineering) to gather information and ensure compliance with export policies and procedures.
• Investigate potential compliance issues or violations, document findings, and support resolution efforts in coordination with management and legal.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Responsible for Strategic Compliance Leadership

The specialist develops, implements, and oversees the company's compliance strategy, policies, and procedures to ensure full adherence to ITAR, EAR, and international trade laws. The incumbent collaborates with engineering to classify highly technical products, resolves complex jurisdictional and classification issues, leads the preparation and submission of strategic export licenses, TAAs/MLAs, and voluntary disclosures, and serves as the primary liaison with government agencies during audits, investigations, or inquiries. The role conducts advanced risk assessments, implements mitigation strategies, designs and delivers comprehensive training programs, mentors junior team members, and integrates compliance into product development, sales, and supply chain processes.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, International Relations, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience in compliance, logistics, or international trade is preferred.
• 10+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of technical education and experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Understanding of or willingness to learn U.S. export control regulations (ITAR, EAR).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
• Experience with export compliance software (e.g., QAD, SAP, or similar tools).
• Demonstrated project management skills.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and integrity.

Leadership, Management, and Personal Skills

• Integrity
• Judgment and problem‑solving
• Leadership
• Communication, both verbal and written, and active listening
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Ability to summarize complex information
• Analytical thinking
• Dependability
• Planning, organization, and prioritization
• Ability to train and influence stakeholders