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International Trade Compliance Program Manager Jobs

Drive strategic trade compliance program efficiency, including risk assessment, risk management and ... Required Years Of Experience, 2 Years with international business. Desired * U.S. Licensed Customs ...

Import/Export Compliance Mgr VI

Poway, CA · On-site

$174K - $324K/yr

... trade compliance program, strategy and execution alignment. * In close coordination with the VP-International Trade Compliance, develop and implement ITC organizational development strategy, with ...

... managing the US Trade Compliance Program. Key responsibilities include maintaining the US Trade ... Experience working with international trade compliance projects. * Experience in process ...

Trade Compliance Manager

Devens, MA · On-site

$113K - $156K/yr

S. and international trade regulations. This is a hands-on role that partners closely with ... Own and manage VulcanForms' trade compliance program, including import/export operations across the ...

OR

$309K/yr

This role focuses on supporting international trade compliance initiatives across U.S. and Mexican ... Experience developing, implementing, or managing trade compliance programs, policies, and ...

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International Trade Compliance Program Manager information

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$59K

$123.6K

$156K

How much do international trade compliance program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for international trade compliance program manager in the United States is $123,571.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $141,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is compliance a dead-end job?

International Trade Compliance Program Managers play a critical role in ensuring organizations adhere to export and import regulations, which are constantly evolving. The field offers opportunities for career growth, specialization, and the development of skills in areas like regulatory analysis and risk management, making it a viable long-term career path rather than a dead-end job.

What does an International Trade Compliance Program Manager do?

An International Trade Compliance Program Manager oversees an organization's adherence to global trade laws and regulations. They develop, implement, and monitor compliance programs to ensure that imports, exports, and cross-border transactions meet legal and regulatory requirements. Their responsibilities include conducting risk assessments, providing staff training, managing audits, and acting as a liaison between the company and regulatory agencies. This role is crucial for preventing legal violations, avoiding penalties, and protecting the company’s reputation in international markets.

What is the difference between International Trade Compliance Program Manager vs Customs Compliance Specialist?

AspectInternational Trade Compliance Program ManagerCustoms Compliance Specialist
CertificationsFewer, often includes CTPAT or similarTypically includes Customs Broker License or similar
Work EnvironmentOversees compliance programs across multiple departments or regionsFocuses on customs documentation and import/export procedures
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in multinational corporations, logistics, and manufacturingCommon in import/export firms, customs brokers, and freight forwarders

The International Trade Compliance Program Manager oversees comprehensive trade compliance programs, ensuring adherence to regulations across regions. In contrast, the Customs Compliance Specialist focuses specifically on customs documentation and import/export procedures. While both roles require knowledge of trade laws, the Program Manager has broader responsibilities, often managing teams and policies, whereas the Specialist handles day-to-day customs operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an International Trade Compliance Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an International Trade Compliance Program Manager, you need expertise in global trade regulations, risk assessment, and program management, typically supported by a degree in international business, law, or a related field. Familiarity with compliance management systems, ERP platforms, and certifications such as Certified Export Specialist (CES) or Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help navigate complex regulations and coordinate with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure organizations remain compliant, avoid costly penalties, and maintain smooth international operations.

What does a compliance program manager do?

A compliance program manager oversees an organization's adherence to laws, regulations, and internal policies related to trade and export controls. They develop, implement, and monitor compliance programs, conduct audits, and ensure staff are trained on relevant regulations, often using tools like compliance management software. Their role helps prevent legal penalties and supports international trade operations.

What are the main challenges an International Trade Compliance Program Manager faces when coordinating with global teams?

International Trade Compliance Program Managers often work with teams across multiple countries, which presents challenges such as navigating different regulatory environments, time zones, and cultural practices. Ensuring consistent compliance with export/import laws and company policies requires strong communication skills and meticulous attention to detail. Building trust and providing clear training to global stakeholders is essential to prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone follows the same compliance protocols.

How much do global customs compliance managers make?

Global customs compliance managers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. They often hold certifications such as CTPAT or CBP and require knowledge of international trade regulations and compliance software.

What is an international trade compliance manager?

An international trade compliance manager oversees a company's adherence to export and import laws, regulations, and policies across different countries. They develop compliance programs, conduct audits, and ensure proper documentation, often requiring knowledge of trade laws, customs procedures, and relevant certifications. Their role helps prevent legal issues and fines related to international trade activities.
More about International Trade Compliance Program Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for International Trade Compliance Program Manager jobs? Cities with the most International Trade Compliance Program Manager job openings:
What states have the most International Trade Compliance Program Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for International Trade Compliance Program Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching International Trade Compliance Program Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for International Trade Compliance Program Manager jobs are:
Infographic showing various International Trade Compliance Program Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,571 per year, or $59.4 per hour.
International Trade Compliance Program Lead

International Trade Compliance Program Lead

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 72 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you searching for meaningful work in international trade compliance?
Are you passionate about ensuring that U.S. technology is properly protected?
Do you enjoy working with cutting-edge innovations and emerging technologies?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
Join our team of experienced professionals working together to support one of the country's premier research laboratories to think boldly and support the nation on critical national security space, and national health missions. We are seeking an International Trade Program Lead with expertise in International Traffic and Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR) licensing and compliance. The position will report to the International Trade Compliance Office (ITCO) Section Supervisor who oversees the trade compliance program, within the Office of General Counsel (OGC). As the Trade Program Lead, you will support the mission areas by managing and evaluating jurisdiction, classification and specially determinations of hardware, software, technical data, and services enumerated under the ITAR, EAR, and Customs Regulations. Accurate classification decisions will enable the development of appropriate defense and commercial import and export authorizations. This position is responsible for reviewing program and project proposals, contracts, and subcontracts, as well as determining licensing and compliance requirements associated with the various foreign interaction activities. The role includes recommending import/export contract clauses that enable ITAR and EAR exemptions, Technical Assistance Agreements (TAA), and Manufacturing License Agreements (MLAs).
The Trade Program Lead must understand the operational needs of the mission areas and coordinate with ITCO on all operational aspects of the international programs being managed. Serving as the primary point of contact for the mission areas on trade licensing and compliance matters, the Trade Program Lead will provide first-level triage, work with staff to determine appropriate trade authorizations, and guide staff on various import/export forms and recordkeeping requirements.
The mission areas will support the Trade Program Lead by integrating this individual into Sector/Department activities, including regular mission area meetings, project meetings, engagements, and daily work. Beyond communicating trade compliance requirements through these forums, the Trade Program Lead must develop a solid understanding of the various technologies within the mission area to address effectively domestic and international trade compliance needs. This role is for an experienced International Trade Compliance (ITC) professional who will oversee export and import activities for designated programs.
As the International Trade Program Lead, you will...
  • Understand and train program management and project technical staff on the Order of Review process for the U.S. Departments of State and Commerce.
  • Actively engage as a business partner with Program Management and Mission Area leadership.
  • Be sought after as the Mission Area international licensing and compliance subject matter expert (SME).
  • Demonstrate ability to act as consultant and trusted advisor to program management.
  • Demonstrate proficient technical knowledge of various trade regulations.
  • Know and understand business plans and strategies.
  • Function as professional authority and consultant, providing expert analysis of governmental export/import regulations, laws and requirements and interpretation of their interrelationships with specific and general activities.
  • Apply your knowledge of parts, components and systems as delineated in the ITAR and EAR.
  • Interact with program team personnel to understand products, software, technology, and services utilized in the mission area business segments.
  • Be responsible for the preparation, implementation, and modification of export license applications, TAAs, MLAs, and exemption/exception usage to support program execution and new business opportunities.
  • Provide focused training and guidance to ensure compliance with terms and conditions of approved export/import authorizations, and research/interpret complex Government regulations such as the ITAR and EAR.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's degree in field relevant to the duties as described above.
  • Have at least 5 years of relevant experience working with the ITAR and EAR performing jurisdiction and export classification reviews of hardware, software, and technical data.
  • Have experience with preparing authorizations and training on ITAR and EAR licenses, Technical Assistance Agreements, and exemptions.
  • Have working knowledge of the DECCs and SNAP-R licensing systems and international export and import shipping practices.
  • Have strong organizational skills and are proficient with MS Office programs and Adobe Acrobat.
  • Have strong inter-personal skills, including excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Are able to obtain an interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a Top Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a Master's degree in a relevant field.
  • Have a least 6 years of experience as an export coordinator, preferably with ITAR and EAR export and import licensing and compliance experience.
  • Have an aerospace background.
  • Have experience with naval vessels.
  • Have a working knowledge of the OCR EASE import/export integrated database management system.
  • Have knowledge of research and development in a government contracting setting.
  • Are qualified, or have the ability to become qualified, as an Empowered Official.
  • Hold an active Top Secret level clearance.

#LI-AG1
About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$72,400 Annually
Maximum Rate
$180,300 Annually

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