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Saab Global
customer service

Import/Export Compliance Officer

Auburn Hills MI, East Syracuse NY, Grayling MI or Washington DC,
United States of America
Closing date: 29 October 2026

Job Description:

Saab, Inc. is seeking a dynamic and proactive Trade Compliance Officer to join our team. Reporting to the Director of Trade Compliance, this role is responsible for supporting the Company's global trade compliance program by ensuring compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and other applicable U.S. and international trade laws, enabling the secure and lawful movement of articles, services, and technical data.

The Trade Compliance Officer will work closely with the Director of Trade Compliance and the Trade Compliance team to develop, implement, and manage export licensing, policy, and compliance strategies supporting defense-related activities, with a primary focus on Saab's Land Systems division. This role will also collaborate with Saab's foreign affiliates to support their understanding of and compliance with U.S. export laws and regulations.

Responsibilities:

  • Implement and continuously improve the trade compliance program, with meaningful attention to defense-related activities and the Land Systems division.

  • Partner with key functions and program teams to discuss, understand, strategize, and execute business objectives.

  • Serve as a subject matter expert on ITAR and EAR compliance, providing clear guidance and options to enable decision-making and compliant conduct.

  • Support foreign technology transfer to the United States and favorable utilization compatible with U.S. and foreign requirements.

  • Coordinate with Saab's foreign affiliates on U.S., Swedish, and other national trade compliance requirements.

  • Ensure the Company maintains required export authorizations, including licenses, agreements, exemptions, and exceptions.

  • Serve as an Empowered Official.

  • Draft export license applications, proposed agreements, General Correspondence requests, and other requests.

  • Submit applications through U.S. Government systems, and track cases to monitor progress. 

  • Communicate with U.S. Government personnel to resolve issues and obtain required authorizations.

  • Ensure license provisos and conditions are communicated, understood, and followed.

  • Identify applicable license exemptions and exceptions and ensure compliance with requirements for their use.

  • Translate corporate trade compliance policies into local site procedures, work instructions, and day-to-day operating processes for the Land Systems division.

  • Standardize trade compliance practices across locations to promote consistency within the division and Company.

  • Engage with customers, partners, suppliers, government agencies, organizations, and associations on trade compliance issues.

  • Monitor changes to trade laws, regulations, and guidance, and advise management on business impacts and risk mitigation strategies.

  • Monitor and interpret changes to trade laws, regulations, guidance, and industry trends, advise management on business impacts and risk mitigation strategies, and communicate relevant updates to stakeholders.

  • Support internal audits, risk assessments, and fact-finding activities related to trade compliance.

  • Develop and deliver trade compliance training tailored to key business functions and programs.

  • Promote a culture of compliance and accountability throughout the organization.

  • Partner with Saab's foreign affiliates to deliver export compliance briefings to cross-functional audiences.

  • Develop, maintain, and update trade compliance policies, procedures, and work instructions.

  • Perform other trade compliance responsibilities as assigned by the Director of Trade Compliance.

Compensation Ranges:

Auburn Hills, MI, Grayling, MI, or East Syracuse, NY: $101,600 - $132,000

Washington, D.C.​​: $121,900 - $158,500

The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training.

Skills and Experience:

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree with 10+ years of experience with the ITAR, EAR, and other applicable trade regulations, or a Master's degree with 8+ years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Experience partnering with engineering teams on USML/ECCN classification determinations and improving product marking, labeling, and related workflows.

  • Currently hold, or have the ability to obtain and maintain, a Security Clearance.

  • Ability to travel 5%-10%, domestically and possibly internationally.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with classification, BATFE permanent import licensing, and the compliant shipment of explosive materials and other defense articles on the U.S. Munitions Import List.

  • Strong communication skills with the ability to clearly explain issues and requirements rather than simply stating them.

  • Experience working with foreign entities and an appreciation of cultural differences.

  • Ability to work independently as well as under direction.

  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to perform and manage multiple substantive and administrative activities concurrently.

Citizenship Requirements:

Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Drug-Free Workplaces:

Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits:

Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits.

Highlights include:

  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents

  • Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays

  • 401(k) with employer contributions

  • Tuition assistance and student loan assistance

  • Wellness and employee assistance resources

  • Employee stock purchase opportunities

  • Short-term and long-term disability coverage

About Us:

Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations.

Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.