Compliance Officer

About Dawn Aerospace

Dawn Aerospace is a pioneering space transportation company focused on developing sustainable and scalable solutions for orbital access. We specialize in green propulsion systems for satellites and cutting-edge reusable spaceplanes. Our propulsion technology powers over 40 satellites with more than 170 units operational in orbit, and we have additional manufacturing underway. Our mission is to revolutionize access to space by enabling new transportation networks and expanding space usage.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Compliance Officer to enhance our regulatory compliance efforts, particularly around export controls and strategic goods regulations across our global aerospace operations. This role entails hands-on involvement in managing compliance frameworks, procedures, and cross-functional coordination to embed compliance into everyday activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Support compliance programs related to export controls, sanctions, and strategic goods in New Zealand and international contexts.
• Conduct due diligence assessments on customers, suppliers, partners, visitors, employees, and transactions for compliance risks.
• Review export transactions, technology transfers, technical data, software, and global business activities to ensure regulatory adherence.
• Assist with compliance to cross-border shipments, licenses, and technology control requirements.
• Monitor and interpret pertinent national and international regulations to develop practical internal policies and workflows.
• Develop and maintain compliance documentation, training resources, and process records.
• Support preparation and submission of licensing applications and correspondence with governmental agencies.
• Participate in internal audits and maintain records evidencing compliance activities.
• Serve as a first point of contact for compliance inquiries, escalating complex issues appropriately.
• Foster a culture of compliance integration in operational decision-making across teams.

Desired Qualifications and Skills

• Previous exposure to export control frameworks such as ITAR and EAR or experience in trade compliance roles.
• Strong attention to detail with an organized and methodical work approach.
• Ability to analyze regulatory information critically and apply sound judgement.
• Confident in communicating concerns and escalating compliance risks as necessary.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills suitable for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Integrity, discretion, and a practical attitude towards compliance challenges.
• Eagerness to learn and deepen expertise in aerospace regulatory affairs.
• Bonus: Prior experience in aerospace, defence, satellite, or advanced tech industries and familiarity with New Zealand or international strategic export controls.
• Bonus: Experience liaising with government bodies on regulatory matters.
• Bonus: Technical or engineering background or experience with technical product data.

Why Join Us

At Dawn Aerospace, you will contribute directly to advancing space technology and safe business practices. You will collaborate across engineering, supply chain, commercial, and leadership units, supporting compliance frameworks in a vibrant, fast-growing company setting. We value curiosity, precision, and building compliance capability in a dynamic industry.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe diverse teams innovate better solutions. Our environment supports inclusivity and values people of all backgrounds to thrive and deliver their best work.

Additional Information

We encourage applicants who meet most, but not all, criteria to apply. Recruitment agencies are not accepted and unsolicited submissions will not be considered.