Global Trade Compliance Lead (ITAR/EAR)

Vatn Systems; Bristol, Washington (RI, District of Columbia); On-site; USD 100,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Vatn Systems seeks a proactive Trade Compliance Manager to own and scale our global trade compliance program in a fast-paced defense-focused engineering environment. You will manage ITAR/EAR classifications, licensing, screenings, and required reporting across programs and international engagements.

Ideal candidates will hold 4–7 years of export control experience, be a U.S. Person, and be able to translate regulatory requirements into actionable guidance for engineers and program managers.

Qualifications

• 4–7 years of export control/trade compliance experience in regulated tech environments.
• Strong knowledge of ITAR and EAR with direct licensing experience.
• Must be a U.S. Person under ITAR due to access to controlled data.
• Ability to become Empowered Official after onboarding.
• Excellent written and verbal communication translating regulatory requirements.
• Willingness to pass a background check for defense work.

Responsibilities

• Maintain global trade compliance program covering ITAR/EAR and sanctions.
• Prepare licenses, classifications, and post-approval obligations.
• Screen denied/restricted party lists and manage technology control plans.
• Review contracts for export controls and foreign national involvement.
• Coordinate with IT, security, and engineering on access controls.
• Lead internal audits, training, and disclosures; support external audits.

Skills

ITAR knowledge

EAR knowledge

Export licensing

DDTC/DECCS experience

US person status

Empowered Official eligibility

Regulatory interpretation

Risk assessment

Policy development

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

DECCS

AES filings system

ITAR/EAR guidance tools

Job description

Vatn Systems seeks a proactive Trade Compliance Manager to own and scale our global trade compliance program in a fast-paced defense-focused engineering environment. You will manage ITAR/EAR classifications, licensing, screenings, and required reporting across programs and international engagements.

Ideal candidates will hold 4–7 years of export control experience, be a U.S. Person, and be able to translate regulatory requirements into actionable guidance for engineers and program managers.