ITAR

Term from Aerospace Engineering industry explained for recruiters

ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) is a set of United States government rules that control how defense-related products, information, and technology can be shared. When you see ITAR mentioned in resumes or job descriptions, it means the person or position deals with sensitive information that needs special handling to protect national security. Think of it like a strict rulebook that companies must follow when working on military or space-related projects. Similar terms you might see are "Export Control" or "EAR compliance." Being "ITAR compliant" or having "ITAR experience" means someone understands these special security rules and has worked in environments where they need to be careful about what information they share and with whom.

Examples in Resumes

Managed ITAR compliance program for aerospace manufacturing facility

Conducted employee training on ITAR regulations and export control requirements

Led engineering team in developing ITAR-controlled satellite components

Typical job title: "ITAR Compliance Officers"

Also try searching for:

Export Compliance Manager Trade Compliance Specialist Defense Trade Controls Officer Regulatory Compliance Manager ITAR/EAR Compliance Specialist Security Manager Compliance Officer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you set up an ITAR compliance program from scratch?

Expected Answer: Should explain creating company policies, training programs, documentation systems, and working with legal teams. Should mention establishing screening procedures for employees and visitors, and creating secure areas for controlled items.

Q: How do you handle international business partnerships while maintaining ITAR compliance?

Expected Answer: Should discuss screening foreign partners, understanding licensing requirements, implementing technology control plans, and maintaining proper documentation for all international transactions.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your process for determining if an item falls under ITAR control?

Expected Answer: Should explain checking the US Munitions List (USML), consulting with technical teams, and documenting classification decisions. Should mention when to seek external expertise.

Q: How do you ensure employees follow ITAR regulations in their daily work?

Expected Answer: Should discuss training programs, creating clear procedures, regular audits, and having systems to prevent accidental information sharing.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is ITAR and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that ITAR protects sensitive military and space technology from being shared with foreign parties, and why this matters for national security.

Q: What are the basic requirements for being ITAR compliant?

Expected Answer: Should mention U.S. person employment requirements, secure facility needs, documentation requirements, and basic training needs.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of ITAR regulations
  • Familiarity with export documentation
  • Knowledge of secure information handling
  • Basic compliance monitoring

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Implementation of compliance programs
  • Employee training development
  • Export license management
  • Compliance auditing

Senior (5+ years)

  • Program development and oversight
  • Risk assessment and management
  • International trade expertise
  • Government liaison experience

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of basic ITAR regulations
  • Lack of experience with export documentation
  • No knowledge of secure information handling
  • History of compliance violations
  • Unfamiliarity with U.S. defense industry requirements

Related Terms