Classification Specialist

Sidley Austin LLP provides legal advice to U.S. exporters and non-U.S. importers and producers, including guidance on the classification of products, parts, software, services, and technologies against the Commerce Control List (CCL) and United States Munitions List (USML). We also advise potential investors and U.S. entities in the context of reviews by Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).  We are seeking a non-Export Classification Specialist to support the Global Arbitration, Trade and Advocacy group. We are seeking a candidate with a technical and engineering background. This candidate will support Sidley attorneys, advising clients on technical aspects of export classification, and licensing issues. A broad scientific base and research aptitude is strongly preferred since the subject matter varies greatly and the relevant parameters are specific.

The technical responsibilities of this position include evaluating technical specifications against the criteria and thresholds identified within the U.S. government control lists (USML and CCL) to determine export control classifications.  Additional responsibilities:

• Gathering classification results and preparing reports describing the review process according to prescribed formats.
• Assisting other Sidley professionals with special assignments or projects as needed, possibly including marketing, data management, and the development of web-based tools.
• Maintaining accurate daily records of time and expenses, monitoring progress against task budgets.
• Assisting with the preparation, review and editing of various documents including budgets, proposals, reports, screens, and audits.
• Assisting with, or conduct, training sessions for clients.

Salaries vary by location and are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the relevant market, skills, experience, and education of the selected candidate. If an estimated salary range for this role is available, it will be provided in our Target Salary Range section. Our compensation package also includes bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits program. Benefits information can be found at Sidley.com/Benefits.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities (Duties) above satisfactorily and meet the requirements below. The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. If you need such an accommodation, please email staffrecruiting@sidley.com (current employees should contact Human Resources). 

Required:

• Engineering degree or equivalent combination of training and related experience.
• Broad knowledge of engineering concepts, methods, and vocabulary.
• Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and resourcefully.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Organizational and technical expertise to lead complex projects.
• Ability to work effectively within short time constraints.
• Proficiency with MS Office, notably Excel.
• Knowledge of export control compliance is a distinct plus.

Preferred:

• Prior experience in classification and export control is desirable but not essential.
• Experience with electronics (CCL Category 3), computers (CCL Category 4), telecommunications and/or information security (CCL Category 5) is desirable but not essential.
• Knowledge of US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) & Schedule B tariff code determinations is desirable but not essential.

Other Skills and Abilities:

The following will also be required of the successful candidate:

• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good judgment
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Able to work harmoniously and effectively with others
• Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
• Able to work under pressure
• Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities

Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer