Associate, Trade

White & Case LLP•Washington, DC

3d•$310,000 - $390,000•Onsite

About The Position

Our Trade Practice specializes in advising clients on international trade laws and regulations, guiding them through the complexities of global commerce. We offer strategic legal counsel on a range of matters including import/export compliance, trade sanctions, customs regulations and trade policy. Our team helps clients manage risk associated with cross-border transactions, secure necessary trade licenses and permits, and resolve disputes related to international trade. We also represent clients in trade-related litigation and before regulatory bodies. By leveraging our in-depth knowledge of global trade frameworks and policies, our Trade Practice supports clients in optimizing their international operations, ensuring regulatory compliance and achieving their business objectives in a competitive global market. We are currently seeking a senior associate with experience in export controls to join the Trade group in our Washington, DC office. This is an opportunity to advise multinational companies, trade associations and governments on complex and commercially significant trade matters involving the movement of goods, services, and technologies across borders. Working closely with leading practitioners in the Firm’s global trade practice, you will support clients across a broad range of industries on U.S. and international trade issues. Matters may include advisory guidance on compliance with U.S. export controls, assistance with export licensing and classification, transactional support and due diligence, internal investigations and government disclosures. As part of a collaborative and globally integrated team, you will assume meaningful responsibility from the outset. The position offers the opportunity to work directly with clients, coordinate with colleagues in offices around the world and develop practical solutions to evolving trade and geopolitical challenges. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical and drafting abilities, sound judgment and a commercially minded approach to advising clients in a fast-paced regulatory environment.

Requirements

Juris Doctor or equivalent degree
Admission to the District of Columbia bar, eligibility for admission, or admission in another U.S. jurisdiction and ability to qualify for practice in Washington, DC
Approximately three to six years of relevant law firm, government or in-house experience in export controls.
Substantial experience with the EAR and ITAR; familiarity with DOE nuclear regulations and CFIUS critical technology analysis strongly preferred
Hands-on experience in preparing export control filings with the U.S. government, e.g., CCATS, CJs, licenses, VSDs, TAAs, MLAs, WDAs, DSP-5s, and ITAR notices.
Experience with encryption and other technologies, ideally including semiconductors and aviation
Demonstrated experience with due diligence and contract negotiation
Experience preparing and implementing compliance programs
Excellent analytical, research, and writing skills
Strong judgment, client-service orientation, and ability to work independently and collaboratively
Ability to translate complex legal and regulatory requirements into actionable advice for legal and business stakeholders
Strong problem-solving skills, sound judgment and a pragmatic, commercially minded approach
Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize effectively and remain calm under pressure
Demonstrated initiative, resourcefulness and ability to work independently on discrete assignments while contributing effectively to a team
Motivated to hone professional skills and take advantage of opportunities for growth
Commitment to excellent client service

Nice To Haves

Foreign language proficiency a plus

Responsibilities

Advise clients on the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), including classification, licensing, and jurisdiction questions
Prepare and submit commodity classification requests (CCATS), commodity jurisdiction (CJ) determinations, export license applications, and voluntary self-disclosures (VSDs)
Handle ITAR registrations, general correspondence, technical assistance agreements (TAAs), manufacturing license agreements (MLAs), warehouse and distribution agreements (WDAs), DSP-5 applications, and 5-day and 60-day notice requirements
Advise on DOE nuclear export regulations (10 C.F.R. Part 810) and related authorizations
Conduct critical technology analyses for CFIUS filings and advise on export control aspects of foreign investment reviews
Lead export control due diligence and negotiate related contract terms in M&A and other transactions
Draft and implement export compliance policies, procedures, and training programs
Advise on sector-specific issues, including encryption, semiconductors, and aviation and aerospace
Mentor junior attorneys and contribute to business development and thought leadership