Position Summary
We are seeking a mid-level Global Trade Compliance professional with demonstrated experience supporting both defense and commercial operations, including regulated products such as energetics, explosives, and ammunition. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance with U.S. and international trade regulations, including export controls, import compliance, and licensing requirements.
The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience with ITAR, EAR, and U.S. sanctions regulations, along with the ability to partner cross-functionally with engineering, program management, supply chain, and business development teams.
Key Responsibilities
Export Compliance & Licensing
- Support the development, submission, and management of export authorizations and agreements (ITAR licenses, EAR licenses via SNAP-R / DECCS) throughout the full business lifecycle
- Administer and ensure compliance with:
- International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)
- Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
- Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions
- Determine export jurisdiction and classification (USML, ECCN) for products, technologies, and software in coordination with engineering and legal teams
- Prepare, submit, and manage export license applications (DSPs, BIS licenses, agreements)
- Support Technical Assistance Agreements (TAAs) and Manufacturing License Agreements (MLAs)
Import Compliance
- Ensure compliance with U.S. Customs regulations (CBP)
- Support classification (HTS), country of origin determinations, and valuation
- Collaborate with customs brokers and internal stakeholders on import documentation
Program, Proposal, and Business Support
- Provide trade compliance guidance for defense and commercial programs, including energetics and ammunition products
- Support proposal and contract review to identify export / import risks and requirements
- Partner with engineering and product teams to ensure compliance throughout the product lifecycle
Recordkeeping & Investigations
- Maintain required records in accordance with regulatory requirements and company policies
- Conduct restricted party screening and transaction reviews
- Support internal and external audits and compliance reviews
- Assist in investigation and resolution of potential violations and voluntary disclosures
Training & Policy Development
- Develop and deliver export compliance training to employees
- Maintain and update policies, procedures, and work instructions
- Promote a strong culture of compliance across the organization
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, International Trade, Law, Supply Chain, or related field
- 5–8 years of relevant global trade compliance experience
- Strong working knowledge of:
- ITAR (22 CFR Parts 120–130)
- EAR (15 CFR Parts 730–774)
- OFAC regulations
- Experience supporting defense programs and controlled products, preferably energetics, explosives, or ammunition
- Experience with export licensing processes (DDTC / BIS)
- Familiarity with import compliance requirements (HTS classification, customs processes)
Preferred Qualifications
- Certified Export Compliance Professional (CECP) or similar certification
- Experience with automated trade compliance systems and ERP systems
- Knowledge of global trade regulations beyond the U.S. (EU Dual-Use, UK export controls, etc.)
- Experience in aerospace, defense, or munitions manufacturing environments
Key Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail and regulatory accuracy
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management
- High ethical standards and integrity
Security / Clearance Requirements
- Must be a U.S. Person (as defined by ITAR)
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance (if required)
Work Environment
- Office environment with occasional interaction with manufacturing or controlled environments; on-site at facility in Arlington, TX or Grand Prairie, TX
- May require limited travel (domestic/international)
IPS Compensation Includes:
- Competitive base salary (commensurate with experience)
- Generous employer contribution to Employee portion of medical insurance (75+%)
- Dental, Vision, and Gap insurance offered
- Employer-paid Life insurance and Short-Term Disability
- 401(k) employer match and immediate vesting
- Generous paid time off policy
IPS Custom Automation is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
The information listed above is not a comprehensive list of all duties/responsibilities performed. This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.
Any physical and mental requirements described in this job description are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.