Associate Director, Compliance

Master’s degree in an appropriate area and four years of relevant experience; or a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and six years of relevant experience.

Position Summary

The University of Florida (UF) is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and highly motivated professional to serve as Associate Director, Research Security & Export Control Officer. Reporting to the Senior Director, Research Integrity, Security & Compliance, this role provides critical leadership in the protection and advancement of UF’s global research enterprise. The Associate Director will serve on our Gainesville campus, and act as the University’s Empowered Official for export controls and oversee the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of UF’s research security and export control compliance programs.

This position ensures compliance with federal regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctions, while promoting a culture of integrity, innovation, and global collaboration across UF’s research community.

About the University of Florida

You belong at a university that’s leading the way!

The University of Florida is a top-ranked public land-grant institution and a proud member of the Association of American Universities (AAU). With more than 55,000 students and a research portfolio exceeding $1 billion annually, UF is recognized nationally and globally for innovation, academic excellence, and impact.

As a cornerstone of UF’s research mission, the UF Research Integrity, Security & Compliance (RISC)  upholds the highest standards of integrity, ensuring that the university’s global research partnerships are conducted safely, ethically, and in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.

The Opportunity

The Associate Director will guide a forward-thinking, comprehensive research security and export control program that safeguards UF’s research enterprise while enabling international collaboration and innovation.

This leader will partner across campus with faculty, staff, administrators, and external agencies to ensure the responsible management of sensitive research, controlled technologies, and global partnerships.

The position requires deep regulatory expertise, strong judgment, and a proactive approach to managing complex compliance matters that intersect with national security, academic research, and international engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Research Security Leadership

• Lead UF’s research security program in alignment with federal guidance, including NSPM-33 requirements.
• Conduct research security risk assessments for international engagements, data sharing, and visiting scholars.
• Coordinate with campus partners on matters involving undue foreign influence, international travel, and controlled research.
• Develop and deliver targeted training and awareness initiatives for faculty, researchers, and students.

Export Control Oversight

• Serve as the University’s Empowered Official, with institutional authority for export control licensing, classification, and compliance.
• Manage export control determinations, license applications, and Technology Control Plans (TCPs).
• Oversee restricted party screening, technology transfers, and reviews of international collaborations.
• Interpret complex export regulations and advise leadership on compliance obligations and risk mitigation.

Program Development and Collaboration

• Develop, implement, and maintain university-wide policies and procedures related to export control and research security.
• Partner with key offices including Sponsored Programs, General Counsel, International Center, and Information Security.
• Build and lead a small team of compliance professionals focused on operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• Monitor evolving federal policies and update institutional practices accordingly.

Why Choose UF?

At the University of Florida, you’ll join a community that values curiosity, collaboration, and integrity. UF’s commitment to responsible research and global engagement provides the ideal environment for a compliance leader to make lasting institutional impact.

As the state’s flagship university, UF is continually expanding its research enterprise, fostering discoveries that change lives and drive economic growth. You’ll have the opportunity to help shape how UF protects, manages, and empowers its world-class research community.

The City of Gainesville

Gainesville is home to Florida’s oldest and most comprehensive university, offering a blend of academic energy, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy. The city’s tree-lined streets, historic neighborhoods, and expansive parks provide an inviting backdrop for UF’s innovative spirit.

As the cultural and educational hub of North Central Florida, Gainesville boasts a thriving local arts scene, celebrated music festivals, and numerous museums and galleries. Its network of nature trails, freshwater springs, and nearby state parks make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

With its central location, residents enjoy easy access to both the Gulf of America and the Atlantic Ocean just a short drive away. Gainesville’s strong sense of community, affordable cost of living, and lively downtown make it one of Florida’s most desirable places to live and work.

Explore Gainesville in 60 seconds.

 Commensurate with Education and Experience

• Master’s degree in an appropriate area and at least four years of experience in an appropriate area; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  
  
• Comprehensive understanding of U.S. export control regulations (ITAR, EAR, OFAC).
  
  
• Demonstrated experience developing or managing a research security or export control compliance program.
  
  
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across various units.

• ECoP® - EAR/ITAR certified or ability to get certified within one year
  
  
• 6-8 years of export control experience in a higher education or research-intensive environment.
  
  
• Advanced degree in law, science, engineering, or related field to include Masters or JD.
  
  
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills with the ability to translate complex regulations into practical guidance.
  
  
• Familiarity with technology control plans, restricted party screening, and compliance automation tools.
  
  
• Experience supervising professional staff and managing compliance operations.
  
  
• Working knowledge of research security policies best practices related to federally funded research.

We invite applications from individuals who bring different perspectives and experiences to support UF’s mission of research excellence and integrity. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a competitive is established. To ensure full consideration applications must include all required materials and should be submitted no later than 11:55pm Sunday, December 14^th 2025.

Applications must be submitted online through Careers at UF and must include:

• A brief cover letter outlining interest and relevant experience
• A current résumé or CV
• A list of at least three professional references

For inquiries or nominations, please contact: Cassandra Farley, Senior Director, Research Integrity, Security & Compliance at cfarley@ufl.edu.

This position is located fully in-house on our Gainesville campus and has been reposted. Previous applicants need not reapply.

Our Commitment

The University of Florida is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Hiring is contingent on eligibility to work in the U.S. and subject to Florida Sunshine and Public Records laws. If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.