Global Trade Compliance Associate

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ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

GLOBAL TRADE COMPLIANCE ASSOCIATE

Based onsite at Rocket Lab’s global headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Trade Compliance Associate supports the company’s U.S. import and export compliance activities. This entry-level role focuses on assisting with the day-to-day execution of trade compliance tasks, including preparing and reviewing export documentation, supporting import entry processes, and helping maintain accurate compliance records.

The associate helps implement established trade compliance procedures, ensures required data is collected and properly documented, and assists with internal audits and periodic reviews. Under the guidance of senior team members, the associate contributes to routine compliance training by preparing materials and ensuring activities align with U.S. trade regulations and internal policies.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Prepare, review, and submit applications for export/import licenses, permits, and other requests for authorization from the U.S. Government.
• Analyze and interpret export and import regulations and maintain current knowledge of changes affecting the business.
• Maintain accurate and organized compliance records, logs, and filing systems.
• Support the implementation of trade compliance procedures and internal controls.
• Help coordinate and prepare materials for annual and functional trade compliance training.
• Assist with internal audits, periodic reviews, and corrective action tracking.
• Conduct basic screening activities (e.g., denied party screening, ECCN/HTS verification under guidance).
• Identify potential red flags or incomplete information and escalate to senior team members.
• Recommend pausing a shipment or transaction when information appears inconsistent or requires further review.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including logistics, engineering, supply chain, and security.
• Prepare, update, retain requisite domestic and international import and export documentation.
• Review and verify export shipping documentation for ad-hoc and other non-routine shipments.
• Maintain the highest ethical standards, even when challenged by management.
• Management of priorities, provide good customer service and must provide timely responses/guidance, and complete projects on schedule.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• 2+ years of experience & a bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of work experience (6+ years of work experience)
• U.S. citizenship is required, due to program requirements.

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Familiarity with ITAR, EAR, and U.S. Customs regulations.
• Strong computer skills, including the ability to research transactions and prepare reports in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) information systems, perform spreadsheet calculations, and quickly learn new software tools.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret and follow established procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work onsite and collaborate in a fast-paced environment.
• Interest in U.S. trade regulations (ITAR, EAR, Customs) and willingness to learn.
• Ability to work at both detail and strategic levels, work calmly under pressure and with frequent interruptions, and display sound judgment.
• Ability to prepare and review business documents.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab.  Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$72,000—$90,000 USD

WHAT TO EXPECT 

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.   

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.