Legal General Counsel

Industry: Photonics, Precision Optics, Optical Components, Defense / Aerospace Manufacturing
Reports to: General Counsel, CFO, COO, or VP of Quality / Compliance

We are seeking an Legal General Counsel to lead our export compliance program for a growing photonics and precision optics manufacturing business. This role will be responsible for ensuring compliance with U.S. export control laws, including the Export Administration Regulations — EAR — and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations — ITAR.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with export classification, ECCNs, ITAR jurisdiction, technical data controls, restricted-party screening, export licensing, employee training, and internal audits. Experience in photonics, optics, lasers, aerospace, defense, space, semiconductor, or precision manufacturing is strongly preferred.

This position will work closely with engineering, sales, quality, operations, supply chain, shipping, IT, and executive leadership to ensure that products, technical data, customer programs, and international transactions are properly reviewed and controlled.

Key responsibilities include:

Managing the company’s EAR and ITAR compliance program.

Classifying products, technical data, software, and technology.

Supporting license applications, commodity classifications, and jurisdiction reviews.

Maintaining a Technology Control Plan.

Managing restricted-party, end-use, and customer screening.

Reviewing export shipments and technical data releases.

Training employees on export compliance responsibilities.

Conducting internal audits and corrective actions.

Supporting investigations and voluntary disclosures when needed.

Partnering with leadership to reduce compliance risk while supporting business growth.