FSO, Compliance Manager

Q Microwave, a leader in the precision RF manufacturing, design and manufacture of cutting-edge military and defense microwave solutions, is seeking a Compliance Manager , FSO to join our entrepreneurial, collaborative, and fast-paced team located in El Cajon, CA. Q Microwave is recognized for its advanced capabilities in RF filtering and custom RF subassemblies—technologies that require deep technical knowledge and a passion for precision. Our fully vertically integrated facility in San Diego enables close collaboration between design and manufacturing, ensuring unmatched quality and performance in RF product development. As a part of Amphenol’s global network of over 130 business units, Q Microwave operates with the technical focus and agility of a specialized design center while leveraging the strength, stability, and resources of one of the world’s largest interconnect solution providers

The Compliance Manager (FSO) will serve as the Facility Security Officer, responsible for managing and enforcing Q Microwave’s industrial security program in accordance with U.S. government regulations. This includes compliance with 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM), DoD directives, DCSA standards, and export control regulations such as ITAR and EAR. The Compliance Manager (FSO) is also responsible for ensuring the protection of classified and export-controlled information across all security platforms, physical locations, and personnel activities.

 

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the implementation and ongoing management of the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) and related security requirements across the organization.
• Oversee compliance with 32 CFR Part 117, ITAR (22 CFR 120–130), EAR (15 CFR 730–774), and internal security policies, ensuring alignment with federal and corporate standards.
• Maintain the facility clearance (FCL) and serve as the primary liaison with the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) and other Cognizant Security Agencies for audits, inspections, and official communications.
• Manage the end-to-end process for personnel security clearances, prescreens, visit authorizations, and foreign travel notifications using DISS/NBIS, SIMS, and NISS systems.
• Develop and deliver comprehensive security briefings, debriefings, and continuous training programs to ensure employee awareness and compliance.
• Ensure the integrity and accuracy of all security documentation and records, maintaining compliance with government and corporate recordkeeping standards.
• Oversee onboarding and offboarding processes related to personnel security and manage access authorization in accordance with role and clearance level.
• Direct the monitoring and operation of physical security systems, including the management of UL 2050-certified Closed Areas and other controlled workspaces.
• Lead internal self-inspections, DCSA assessment preparations, and peer audit initiatives to ensure continuous improvement of the security program.
• Review and approve DD254 forms, ensuring contractual security requirements are properly interpreted and implemented throughout the contract lifecycle.
• Ensure proper classification, handling, marking, storage, and transmission of export-controlled technical data under ITAR and EAR regulations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including compliance and legal, to validate export authorizations and ensure alignment with project and customer requirements.
• Investigate and report all security incidents, violations, and insider threat concerns in accordance with regulatory and company policies.
• Partner with the Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM) to ensure classified IT systems readiness, including adherence to STIG and CCRI standards.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of evolving national security and export control regulations; ensure team compliance through continuing education and professional development.
• Promote and enforce a strong safety culture, ensuring all work is performed in compliance with local, state, and federal safety and health regulations, including any special safety protocols.

What We're Looking For:

Minimum Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship required
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience (4 years related security experience in lieu of degree)
• 3–5 years of relevant industrial or government security experience
• FSO or AFSO Certification
• Active Secret clearance
• Familiarity with 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM), DCSA guidance, and DoD 5205.07
• Familiar with CUI and basic cyber security requirements.
• Proficient with DISS/NBIS, SIMS, Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage sensitive information

Preferred Qualifications

• Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) FSO certification (or ability to obtain within six months)
• Experience supporting compliance in a cleared defense contracting environment
• Knowledge of export regulations including ITAR and EAR
• Familiarity with DD254s, classified contracts, and safeguarding procedures
• Previous work in a cleared facility or defense industry
• Understanding of physical and cyber-physical security controls
• Effective written and verbal communication skills across all levels of the organization.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching 
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance