Import/Export Shipping Specialist

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

The Export/Import Shipping Specialist is responsible for the compliant execution of international and domestic shipments of highly regulated defense articles and controlled articles. This role serves as the final compliance gate between approved export authorizations and the physical movement of weapons and sensitive hardware. The specialist ensures that every shipment strictly aligns with ITAR, EAR, USML, customs, and transportation regulations, including license scope, consignee authorization, and hazardous materials requirements. Operating in close coordination with Trade Compliance, Contracts, Program Management, and Warehouse teams, this position is critical to maintaining audit readiness, preventing export violations, and enabling reliable, repeatable delivery of controlled defense systems at scale.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute export and import shipments of ITAR-controlled missiles, arms, and related components in accordance with approved licenses (DSP-5, DSP-73, TAAs, MLAs, exemptions, or FMS authorizations).

• Prepare and validate all export/import documentation, including EEI filings, SLIs, commercial invoices, packing lists, Shipper’s Declarations, and airway bills.

• Verify that shipment quantities, serial numbers, values, consignees, end users, and destinations align precisely with approved export authorizations.

• Coordinate shipments with defense-approved freight forwarders, customs brokers, and government transportation offices (e.g., DLA, DCMA, DTS).

• Manage hazardous materials compliance for explosives, propellants, batteries, and energetic materials in accordance with DoT, IATA, IMDG, and host-nation requirements.

• Support importation of controlled defense articles, including temporary imports, repairs, RMAs, and government-furnished equipment.

• Maintain shipment-level records and traceability to support ITAR/EAR recordkeeping and audit requirements.

• Collaborate closely with Trade Compliance, Contracts, Program Management, and Warehouse teams to ensure compliant execution from license approval through delivery.

• Respond to customs inquiries, inspections, shipment holds, or government reviews involving controlled arms.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in logistics, international trade, or defense operations.

• 5+ years of direct experience exporting and importing ITAR-controlled defense articles, specifically missiles, weapons, or arms-related systems.

• Demonstrated working knowledge of ITAR, EAR, USML Categories (especially missile- and weapon-related categories), and customs regulations.

• Hands-on experience preparing EEI filings and coordinating with defense freight forwarders.

• Experience shipping hazardous and energetic materials under DoT/IATA/IMDG regulations.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to execute error-free shipments under regulatory scrutiny.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience supporting missile programs, interceptor systems, munitions, or advanced weapons platforms.

• Familiarity with FMS and DCS shipment processes.

• Active Secret clearance or eligibility to obtain one.

• Experience working with government transportation offices or military depots.

• Certification in hazardous materials shipping or international trade compliance.

• Experience supporting high-volume, repetitive shipments of controlled defense articles.

Pay range for this role
$85,000—$110,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits:

• Competitive total compensation package

• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.

• 401k with company-match

• 4 weeks of paid time off each year

• 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.

• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

Note about our Texas roles: we are in the process of opening a location on the mid-west side of the DFW metro region. Roles in Texas will initially work remotely and then be expected to be onsite when that location opens in 2026.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.