Research Security & Export Controls Lead

Attain Partners; United States; Remote; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Attain Partners is seeking a Research Security Officer to lead and implement university research security and export controls programs. You will serve as the subject matter expert, coordinating with Compliance, General Counsel, and institutional offices to enforce policies and ensure regulatory adherence.

The role requires deep ITAR/EAR/OFAC knowledge, plus experience building compliant programs and managing export licensing processes, with a collaborative, cross‑functional approach across

Qualifications

• In‑depth understanding of ITAR, EAR, OFAC regulations and federal contracting requirements.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing research compliance programs, global trade compliance, and/or research operations.

Responsibilities

• Promotes a culture of compliance and oversees adherence to regulations and policies related to research security and export controls.
• Executes compliance program activities, including risk assessments, work plans, and corrective actions.
• Serves as the institution’s research security point of contact and responds to information requests from external parties.
• Administers export control program obligations, makes ITAR determinations, and manages license processes with federal agencies.
• Develops and updates policies to support export control compliance and coordinates with key institutional stakeholders.
• Maintains expertise on ITAR, EAR, OFAC, NSDD-189, CHIPS & Science Act, and related regulations; advises on trends.
• Manages restricted party screening, reviews matches, and coordinates with HR, counsel, and other offices.
• Reviews visa requests (J-1, O-1, H-1B) for export control considerations and coordinates with international offices.

Skills

ITAR/EAR/OFAC knowledge

Communication skills

Research compliance programs

Global trade compliance

Non-profit/academic experience

Developing processes

Education

Bachelor’s degree

5+ years relevant experience

Job description

Attain Partners is seeking a Research Security Officer to lead and implement university research security and export controls programs. You will serve as the subject matter expert, coordinating with Compliance, General Counsel, and institutional offices to enforce policies and ensure regulatory adherence.

The role requires deep ITAR/EAR/OFAC knowledge, plus experience building compliant programs and managing export licensing processes, with a collaborative, cross‑functional approach across