Director of Trade Compliance and Export Controls

Capella Space stands at the forefront of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite technology and signal intelligence. We provide customers in governments, academia, and commercial sectors with reliable information that enables unparalleled understanding of the world. Our mission is centered on delivering timely and reliable Earth imagery, supporting diverse applications in defense & intelligence, disaster response, energy, environmental monitoring and more. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, Capella Space designs, manufactures and operates an advanced constellation of SAR imaging satellites. Our market-leading SAR satellites are complemented by an unmatched data infrastructure and automated ordering and delivery platform for fast, reliable insights where and when customers need it most. 

Recognized for our technological prowess, Capella Space was honored as one of the 10 most innovative companies in Space in 2023 by FASTCOMPANY. Capella Space is an internationally trusted Earth Observation data provider, working closely with the U.S. Space Systems Command, U.S. Space Force, NASA, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. National Reconnaissance Office, the Canadian Government and more to make unclassified, high-resolution SAR data more accessible.  

What Makes Capella Unique? 

Capella Space is a highly collaborative team environment, providing an opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the space industry, though no prior space experience is needed.  We’re looking for people excited about tackling seemingly impossible challenges, learning new skills and concepts, and helping each other achieve success. Our mission and our products are meant to understand the whole world and help everyone in it - regardless of race, creed, or any other distinction. We encourage you to bring your unique perspective to help make us stronger, including applications from those who are traditionally underrepresented in tech. 

About the Role and Team 

As the Director of Trade Compliance and Export Controls within our Legal team, you will be responsible for overseeing the company's compliance with ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations), EAR (Export Administration Regulations), and related trade and export laws. You'll provide strategic leadership and guidance to ensure compliance across all our business operations, effectively managing trade risk and promoting a culture of compliance. 

The Legal team at Capella Space is responsible for identifying and managing risks across the organization. This role, reporting to the General Counsel, will play a critical role in enhancing and implementing company-wide compliance programs tailored to Capella’s operations, conducting risk assessments of current export activities, and ensuring adherence to legal standards and ethical practices. 

This position demands deep expertise in export regulations, particularly within ITAR-controlled environments, and will serve as the key advisor on trade compliance matters across the company. 

Role Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the company's trade compliance program, ensuring adherence to ITAR, EAR, OFAC, and other applicable regulations.
• Act as the primary Empowered Official (EO) responsible for export licensing, classification, and compliance oversight. 
• Develop, implement, and maintain internal compliance policies and procedures to ensure effective export control management. 
• Provide guidance and training to internal teams, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of export requirements and compliance responsibilities. 
• Oversee export compliance audits, risk assessments, and investigations, addressing gaps proactively. 
• Review and disposition of reportable trade compliance incidents/violations as well as corrective actions 
• Interface directly with government regulatory agencies, including the Departments of State (DDTC) and Commerce (BIS), to manage licensing and regulatory communications. 
• Preparing/filing Commodity Jurisdiction Requests, Commodity Classification Requests, and Advisory Opinions, as needed 
• Evaluate contracts, agreements, and transactions for potential export control implications. 
• Manage denied-party screenings, license applications, technical assistance agreements, and related documentation. 
• Maintain accurate and organized records to support compliance reporting and audits. 
• Keep senior leadership informed of changes in export compliance regulations and implications for business operations.

Required Qualifications 

• Active TS/SCI clearance strongly preferred; candidates must be eligible for clearance if not currently held. 
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, International Trade, or a related discipline. 
• 10+ years of experience in trade compliance, export controls, or international trade regulations. 
• Deep expertise and extensive practical experience with ITAR and EAR compliance in an aerospace, defense, or similarly regulated industry. 
• Experience serving as an Empowered Official (EO) or similar regulatory role. 
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities in developing, implementing, and maintaining trade compliance programs. 
• Proven ability to effectively communicate complex regulatory requirements clearly across all levels of an organization. 
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple complex compliance matters simultaneously. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (JD or Master's) in Law or International Trade. 
• Prior experience interacting directly with U.S. regulatory agencies (DDTC, BIS). 
• Certifications in trade compliance (e.g., ECoP, CES). 
• In-depth knowledge relevant to the Defense Technology space, including USML Category XI, XV, and ECCN 9x515 items. 
• Capable of operating successfully in a high growth, innovative company. 
• Ability to earn trust and maintain positive professional relationships, internally and externally.

Compensation 

The annual salary range for this role as it is posted is $145,000 - $214,000. The final job level and annual salary will be determined based on the education, qualification, knowledge, skills, ability, and experience of the final candidate(s), specific office location and calibrated against relevant market data and internal team equity. Benefits listed in this posting may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Capella Space.    

Benefits/Perks 

In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• We provide extensive medical coverage, including strong vision and dental plans, flexible spending accounts, and additional supplemental health options.
• 401K Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Generous Parental Leave 
• Paid Flexible Time Off Policy 
• Lifestyle Spending Account 
• Commuter & Parking Benefits 
• Mental Health Resources 
• Monthly Phone Stipend 
• Daily provided lunches and stocked kitchens. 
• Furry friends? We’ve got you covered with dog-friendly work environment & them with pet insurance options

Equal Opportunity Statement 

Capella Space is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you need assistance or require an accommodation during the job application process, please notify recruiting@capellaspace.com 

To learn more about us, explore our site: https://www.capellaspace.com/  and follow us on X and LinkedIn to see our SAR imagery!