Export Compliance Principal Specialist
Job details
General information
Entity
Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 100,000 employees and sales of 27.3 billion euros in 2024, and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets.
Safran is in the 2nd place in the aerospace and defense industry in TIME magazine's "World's best companies 2024" ranking.
Safran Electronics & Defense offers its customers onboard intelligence solutions allowing them to understand the environment, reduce mental load and guarantee a trajectory, even in critical situations, in all environments: on land, at sea, in the sky or space. The company harnesses the expertise of its 13,000 employees towards these three functions: observe, decide and guide, for the civil and military markets.
Reference number
2025-169311
Job details
Domain
Performance and Support
Job field / Job profile
Trade compliance and risks - Export control
Job title
Export Compliance Principal Specialist
Employment @type
Permanent
Professional category
Professional, Engineer & Manager
Part time / Full time
Full-time
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 the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR), Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions, and other global export control frameworks. The Export Compliance Principal Specialist will drive compliance strategy, manage complex regulatory changes, and serve as a subject matter expert while collaborating cross-functionally to align compliance efforts with business objectives
Essential Job Functions:
Reviewing 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
Restricted party screening for 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
Export Compliance Principal Specialist: Will perform the above independently and recognized as a subject matter expert on the company, industry best practices and aligns compliance efforts with business objectives. Responsibilities include: Develop, implements, and oversee the company's compliance strategy, policies and procedures to ensure full adherence to ITAR, EAR and international trade laws; in collaboration with engineer, classify highly technical products, software, and technologies, resolving complex jurisdictional and classification issues under U.S. regulations; lead the preparation, submission, and management of strategic export licenses, TAAs/MLAs, voluntary disclosures, and other regulatory submissions; serve as the primary liaison with government agencies (e.g., DDTC, BIS, OFAC) during audits, investigations, or inquiries, ensuring timely and accurate responses; conduct advanced risk assessments of export activities, identifying potential vulnerabilities and implementing mitigation strategies; design and deliver comprehensive training programs for employees at all levels, fostering a culture of compliance across the organization; mentor junior team members, providing technical guidance; collaborate with leadership and business units to integrate compliance into product development, sales and supply chain processes; lead investigations into potential export violations, drafting detailed reports and coordinating corrective actions with internal and external stakeholders.
But what else? (advantages, specificities, etc.)
Travel Specificity:
Potential travel between Irvine, California and other locations up to 10%.
Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of the job, the employee is regularly required to remain in a stationary position and occasionally move about the office. Constantly operates and uses a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a copier/printer. The ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Must be able to exchange accurate information. Occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds across the office for various needs.
Work Environment
The work environment is work performed in the office. The noise level in the office is typically quiet.
Experience in relevant Business sector: Experience within aerospace or defense industry a plus but not required.
Candidate skills & requirements
Required Competencies:
Education/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' related work experience or equivalent combination of technical education and experience
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Strong organization 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 and attention to detail
Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and integrity
Leadership Skills / Management Skills / Personal Skills:
Integrity
Judgement and problem solving
Leadership
Communication, both verbally and written and through active listening and reading comprehension
Adaptable and flexible
Ability to summarize complex information
Analytical thinking
Dependability
Planning, organization and prioritizing
Ability to train and influence stakeholders
Annual salary
Based on Market Rate
Job location
Job location
North America, United States, California
City (-ies)
1833 Alton Parkway CA 92606 Irvine
Applicant criteria
Minimum education level achieved
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum experience level required
More than 8 years
ITAR Controlled Position: Select "Yes" if role requires U.S. citizenship/permanent residency
Yes
