Export Control and Research Security Specialist II - 525475 at The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama

Job Description:

Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $74,200 - Midpoint: $100,200 (Salaried E12)

Department/Organization: 701105 - Office for Rsch Security & Export C

Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 4:45pm

Note to Applicants: Position is eligible for remote work subject to University policy.

Job Summary: The Export Control and Research Security Specialist II implements campus-wide policies and procedures related to all relevant export control and research security regulations. Delivers ongoing training, education, and guidance to campus faculty, staff, and students in export control and research security-related matters. Assists in the implementation and management of the University's classified research program and the standup of facilities clearance programs. Works collaboratively with the Executive Director and other units to develop and implement the University's Research Security Program in response to the requirements of National Security Presidential Memorandum - 33 (NSPM-33).

Additional Department Summary: The Office for Research Security and Export Controls (ORSEC), part of the Office for Research & Economic Development (ORED) at The University of Alabama, drives a campus-wide mission to ensure compliance with export control and research security regulations. Through collaboration with researchers across campus and external partners, ORSEC advances the University's research goals, supporting a robust compliance framework that enables research innovation. ORSEC upholds UA's mission of teaching, research, and service by fostering compliance with export control laws, research security regulations, and relevant University and governmental policies, while also cultivating a global perspective to extend the University's outreach and impact worldwide.


The Export Control and Research Security Specialist II plays a pivotal role in implementing and managing comprehensive compliance programs. Working alongside the Executive Director, this specialist assists in the development of a University-wide export compliance program and research security initiatives to address current regulations. The role includes overseeing compliance with Export Administration Regulations (EAR), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and U.S. Department of Treasury sanctions (OFAC). The specialist also supports compliance with National Security Presidential Memorandum 33 (NSPM-33), manages the University's classified research program, and mitigates potential foreign influence on research activities.


Serving as a point of contact for campus and external compliance inquiries, the Export Control and Research Security Specialist II leads the implementation of campus policies and provides continuous training and guidance for faculty, staff, and students on research security protocols. In collaboration with other campus units, this specialist supports classified research efforts and advises the UA community on key topics such as international travel and shipments, deemed exports, and restricted person handling. Additionally, the role involves reviewing research security conditions in sponsored research agreements, procurement agreements, and ancillary contracts to ensure compliance with both University and federal standards.


The Specialist regularly conducts quality assurance reviews of research security documents, processes, and procedures, addressing any necessary updates in line with evolving regulations. By investigating suspected or reported violations, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders on compliance issues, and monitoring program adequacy, the Specialist ensures that UA maintains the highest standards in research security and compliance. Staying current with industry practices and regulatory changes, including participation in organizations like the Association of University Export Control Officers (AUECO), this role helps to safeguard UA's research activities and promote best practices in compliance and security.

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and four (4) years of export control compliance experience; OR master's degree and two (2) years of export control compliance experience.

Additional Required Department Minimum Qualifications: Due to U.S. export control regulations governing information, technology, and facilities accessed during the performance of this work, applicants must be: (1) U.S. citizens or nationals; (2) permanent residents; (3) asylees or refugees; or (4) individuals otherwise described as "protected individuals" according to Title 8 U.S. Code Section 1324b(a)(3)(b).


Must have or obtain export control certification specific to higher education industry within one (1) year, as courses are available.

Skills and Knowledge: Broad understanding of the compliance requirements of federal, state, and other regulatory agencies. Extensive knowledge of federal and institutional regulations on research security and their applications within a research-intensive higher education environment, especially in a rapidly changing regulation environment. Ability to conduct comprehensive, detailed analyses of complex regulations, effectively and efficiently assess factual situations under those regulations, and develop appropriate recommendations for action. High level of competency with systems applications and databases. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Excellent interpersonal and organizational development skills. Proven leadership skills and ability to supervise team members. Ability to be flexible, tactful, and diplomatic. Well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to innovate.

Preferred Qualifications: Multiple years of experience with direct export control compliance and risk assurance in an institution of higher education. Experience in the administration of a classified research program in accordance with the National Industrial Security Program Manual (NISPOM).

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, genetic or family medical history information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected basis, and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. Follow the link below to find out more. "EEO is the Law" Poster