U.S. Export Control Lead

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: On Site — based out of Pinehurst, NC area facility

Kraken Kinetics is seeking an experienced U.S. Export Control Lead to head the company's quickly growing U.S. export compliance program. This high-impact role is for an experienced practitioner who has operated as the primary export compliance owner for a regulated business. Reporting to the Head of Legal, this individual serves as the company’s principal point of contact on U.S. export controls, working with outside counsel and experts when needed, and partnering closely with executive leadership, security, HR, manufacturing, and training.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the company’s Export Control Officer, overseeing the company’s export control compliance program.
• Determine export jurisdiction and classification for hardware and technology under the ITAR and EAR.
• Identify licensing requirements and manage export licenses, exemptions, and agreements, including TAAs and MLAs.
• Conduct end-use, end-user, and restricted-party screening, including sanctions and diversion-risk due diligence.
• Manage deemed export compliance and maintain Technology Control Plans (TCPs).
• Maintain auditable export records and support internal audits, gap assessments, and corrective actions.
• Develop and deliver export control training across the organization.
• Partner with Sales, Engineering, Training, Business Development, and Supply Chain to integrate export requirements into daily operations.
• Monitor regulatory developments and engage with industry groups and government agencies on emerging requirements.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in International Business, Supply Chain, Engineering, or a related field or JD from an accredited law school and active bar membership in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.
• 3-5+ years of relevant experience in U.S. export controls and related compliance matters; ITAR experience strongly preferred but not required.
• Proven proficiency building, implementing, and owning an export compliance program.
• Strong analytical skills, sound judgment, and a high level of organization and attention to detail in regulatory scenarios.
• Excellent communication skills and comfortable advising senior leaders.
• Ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced, high growth environment.
• Experience with Global Trade Management (GTM) software or ERP-integrated compliance tools preferred.

U.S. Export Control Compliance Status. The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.

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.