Trade Compliance 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 Trade Compliance Specialist prepares, manages, and tracks export compliance documentation in support of programs shipping large volumes of defense articles internationally. This role works closely with engineering, compliance, and legal team to ensure proper classification of hardware/software and compliant documentation for each program. This role will be working closely with the engineering team to apply Corporate and Directorate of Defense Trade Controls policies, standards and regulatory requirements onto the organization, establishing proper controls and compliance efficiencies.

The role requires knowledge of export and import trade compliance rules and regulations including ITAR, EAR, ECCN, OFAC, and USML.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform export classifications (ECCN, USML, HTS codes).

• Draft program-level export documentation in collaboration with engineering.

• Support the preparation of shipping paperwork (EEI, SLI, commercial invoices, packing lists).

• Conduct denied party and embargo screening.

• Maintain export documentation in compliance with audit requirements.

• Support training of engineering and program staff on compliance best practices.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.

• 3–5 years of trade compliance experience.

• Strong knowledge of ECCN, USML, ITAR/EAR, and OFAC screening.

• Experience preparing export compliance documentation, requests, supporting forms.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Export Specialist (CES) or similar credential.

• Experience in defense/aerospace manufacturing environment.

• Ability to mentor junior compliance support staff.

For candidates based in San Luis Obispo, California, the annual base salary range for this role is $90,000-115,000/year USD. The final compensation package will be determined based on factors including but not limited to experience, skills, qualifications, and internal pay equity.

Pay range for this role
$90,000—$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.