U.S. Export Control Manager

ABOUT KRAKEN KINETICS

Kraken Kinetics designs and manufactures advanced kinetic solutions that enable modern warfighting capabilities for the United States Armed Forces and its allies. We specialize in mission-tailored warheads and firing systems for unmanned and autonomous weapon platforms, delivering production-ready solutions at speed to address urgent national security challenges.

Our team brings decades of specialized Department of War experience across the full lifecycle of kinetic system development—from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and operational deployment. Built on a foundation of work that helped lead the DoW into the era of kinetic drones, Kraken Kinetics combines commercial agility with deep technical expertise to deliver DEFINITIVE LETHALITY™ when it matters most.

POSITION SUMMARY

Location: Hybrid — based out of Pinehurst, NC area facility

Kraken Kinetics is seeking an experienced U.S. Export Control Manager to manage and strengthen the company's U.S. export compliance program. Reporting to the Head of Legal, this individual serves as the primary subject matter expert on U.S. export controls, working with outside counsel and experts when needed to ensure compliance with the ITAR, EAR, and related regulatory requirements. This role leads export jurisdiction and classification determinations, manages export licensing and authorizations, oversees restricted-party and sanctions screening, conducts end-use and end-user due diligence, and administers deemed export controls. The Export Control Manager operates with the autonomy to engage directly with Engineering, Sales, Training, Supply Chain, and other functions across the company to integrate export control requirements into day-to-day operations, without requiring case-by-case approval for routine cross-functional coordination.

Key Responsibilities

Export Control Classification

• Determine and document export jurisdiction and classification for hardware and technology under the ITAR and EAR, including complex classification and jurisdiction assessments and license exception analysis.

• Support Commodity Jurisdiction (CJ) requests and Commodity Classification Automated Tracking System (CCATS) submissions as needed, and maintain accurate, auditable classification records.

Export Licensing Management

• Identify licensing requirements and assess eligibility for ITAR exemptions and EAR license exceptions; prepare, submit, and manage export licenses and agreements, including Technical Assistance Agreements (TAAs) and Manufacturing License Agreements (MLAs).

• Track and enforce compliance with license provisos, conditions, and restrictions, maintaining complete and audit-ready documentation.

End-Use, End-User & Destination Screening

• Conduct end-use, end-user, destination, and restricted-party screening, including embargo and sanctions checks, red-flag evaluation, and diversion-risk and know-your-customer due diligence for export transactions.

Deemed Export & Technology Control

• Manage deemed export compliance, including nationality-based access reviews and licensing determinations, and develop, implement, and maintain Technology Control Plans (TCPs).

• Communicate license conditions, monitor access controls, and ensure compliant handling of controlled technology and technical data.

Compliance Program Management & Training

• Support continuous improvement of the U.S. export compliance program, including internal controls, audits, gap assessments, root-cause analyses, and corrective action plans.

• Maintain compliant export records, support updates to procedures and work instructions, and develop and deliver training on export controls, ITAR/EAR, and corporate compliance requirements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Advisory Support

• Partner with Sales, Engineering, Training, Business Development, and Supply Chain to integrate export control requirements into operations, providing practical compliance guidance that enables efficient activity while mitigating risk.

• Deliver training and day-to-day advisory support across the business, and support re-export and downstream compliance matters as they arise.

Process Improvement & Regulatory Engagement

• Lead process and workflow enhancements to strengthen export compliance operations, including evaluation of automation and digital tools to improve data accuracy, efficiency, and scalability.

• Engage with industry peers, trade associations, and relevant U.S. government agencies to stay informed on regulatory developments, participate in industry working groups, and monitor policy changes affecting the business.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Bachelor's degree in International Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or a related field.

Experience

• 3+ of U.S. export control experience with the EAR, ITAR, and U.S. sanctions required; 5+ years preferred.

• Proven, hands-on proficiency across classification, licensing, screening, and technology control activities described above.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical skills, sound judgment, and a high level of organization and attention to detail in regulatory scenarios.

• Effective communicator with the ability to advise and collaborate across cross-functional teams.

• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple competing priorities.

Experience with Global Trade Management (GTM) software or ERP-integrated compliance tools preferred.

SALARY & BENEFITS

Kraken Kinetics is committed to offering a competitive compensation package to attract and retain top talent. This full-time, exempt position offers an annual salary range of $105,000 to $130,000 depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits included:

• Generous PTO policy

• Comprehensive medical coverage (80% company-paid for employee + dependents).

• Vision & dental (100% company-paid)

• Short and long-term disability coverage (100% company-paid)

• Generous 401(k) retirement plan

• Company-paid life insurance

• Great teammates and well stocked snacks

LIFE IN MOORE COUNTY, NC (PINEHURST AREA)

Kraken Kinetics is based in Moore County, North Carolina, home to Pinehurst, a nationally recognized destination offering an exceptional quality of life.

Employees benefit from a low cost of living, minimal congestion, and a strong sense of community, with easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh-Durham.

Whether you're looking to accelerate your career or put down long-term roots, the Pinehurst area offers a compelling alternative to traditional tech and defense hubs.

We are committed to supporting relocation for the right candidates.

Watch what it’s like to live here:
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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Kraken Kinetics is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applicants of all backgrounds.