Open Source Compliance Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s digital era, the role of open source compliance managers is more crucial than ever.

As technology continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals capable of managing, implementing, and ensuring compliance in open source software is rapidly growing.

But let’s delve a little deeper: What’s really expected from an open source compliance manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this position,
• A hiring manager aiming to outline the perfect applicant profile,
• Or simply curious about the complexities of open source compliance management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a versatile open source compliance manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Open Source Compliance Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Open Source Compliance Managers oversee the adherence to and implementation of open source software licenses within an organization.

They also manage the organization’s contributions to open source projects.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the implementation of open source software licenses and ensuring compliance with open source regulations
• Creating and implementing policies and procedures related to open source software usage and compliance
• Conducting regular audits to ensure the organization’s software usage is in compliance with open source licenses
• Collaborating with legal and technical teams to address any issues related to open source compliance
• Managing the organization’s contributions to open source projects, ensuring they adhere to the project’s guidelines and the organization’s open source policies
• Educating employees about the importance of open source compliance and the organization’s policies
• Keeping up to date with changes in open source licensing and compliance regulations
• Developing and maintaining a database of open source software used within the organization, including licensing and compliance details
• Resolving any potential legal issues related to the misuse of open source software

 

Open Source Compliance Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a knowledgeable Open Source Compliance Manager to oversee our company’s open source software licensing.

The Open Source Compliance Manager’s responsibilities include reviewing and approving open source software use, drafting and implementing compliance policies, and providing training on open source licensing.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of open source licensing and related legal issues, is detail-oriented, and has excellent communication skills.

Prior experience in open source compliance management or a related field is a must.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and enforce open source compliance policies and procedures
• Review, approve, and track use of open source software within the company
• Provide training on open source licensing to development teams
• Work closely with legal and development teams to resolve potential licensing issues
• Ensure company is in compliance with all open source licenses
• Monitor external developments in open source licensing
• Prepare reports on open source use and compliance for management
• Assist in the procurement process to ensure compliance with open source licensing

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Open Source Compliance Manager or similar role
• Strong understanding of open source licensing and related legal issues
• Excellent communication and training skills
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
• Knowledge of software development processes
• Ability to work collaboratively with legal and development teams
• Degree in Law, Computer Science, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Open Source Compliance Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or industry conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the General Counsel or Chief Technology Officer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $135,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Open Source Compliance Manager Do?

Open Source Compliance Managers are typically employed in the technology sector, often by software development companies, IT firms, and other digital and tech businesses.

They may also work as consultants for companies that utilize open source software.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the company’s use of open source software adheres to the respective licensing agreements.

They are involved in the oversight and management of open source usage within the organization, including software integration, distribution, and development activities.

Open Source Compliance Managers also work closely with legal teams, development teams, and software procurement professionals to align the company’s open source strategy with business goals.

They ensure that legal risks are minimized and that the company is protected from potential lawsuits or sanctions related to open source non-compliance.

They develop and implement open source policies and procedures, conduct compliance audits, and provide training to staff about open source licensing and compliance best practices.

They may also be involved in the review and approval process for new software acquisitions or developments that involve open source components.

Additionally, Open Source Compliance Managers may be tasked with managing open source contributions made by their organization, ensuring that these contributions are compliant with relevant licensing agreements, and maintaining positive relationships within the broader open source community.

 

Open Source Compliance Manager Qualifications and Skills

An Open Source Compliance Manager should possess a blend of technical knowledge, legal understanding, and project management skills, including:

• Extensive knowledge of open-source software, licensing terms, and compliance requirements to successfully navigate the complexities of open source use within the organization.
• Strong legal understanding to interpret and apply the various open source licenses and ensure adherence to their requirements.
• Excellent project management skills to oversee and coordinate the implementation of open source compliance initiatives across multiple teams.
• Exceptional communication skills to articulate the importance of open source compliance to various stakeholders, including developers, legal teams, and management.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address potential compliance issues, and devise strategies to mitigate risk.
• Technical understanding of software development processes and tools, enabling effective collaboration with development teams and understanding of technical challenges related to compliance.
• Ability to conduct audits and reviews of open source usage, and implement corrective actions where necessary.

 

Open Source Compliance Manager Experience Requirements

Open Source Compliance Managers are typically required to have a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in the field of open source compliance, legal, or licensing roles.

They may have gained this experience through roles such as Compliance Analyst, Open Source Compliance Specialist, or Legal Counsel in a technology-oriented company.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships or part-time roles related to open source compliance or legal affairs.

They may also gain essential experience from roles such as Open Source Contributor, where they understand the legal intricacies of open source licenses.

Those with 3 to 5 years of experience are usually proficient in reviewing and analyzing open source licenses, managing open source license compliance, and implementing open source usage policies.

They likely have a sound understanding of software development processes and know how to integrate open source compliance into these processes.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience typically have advanced knowledge of open source compliance and the associated legal aspects.

They are likely to have held managerial or supervisory roles, overseeing compliance teams, and implementing company-wide open source compliance strategies.

They may also have experience in handling audits and creating training programs to educate employees on open source compliance.

 

Open Source Compliance Manager Education and Training Requirements

Open Source Compliance Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or another related field.

This role requires a deep understanding of open source licensing, hence, experience or education in law, particularly intellectual property law, is a significant advantage.

In addition to this, they need to have a strong background in software development and familiarity with various programming languages such as Java, Python, C++ among others.

Some roles, especially those in larger corporations or those with more complex compliance needs, may require Open Source Compliance Managers to have a master’s degree in a specific IT, law or business discipline.

Professional certifications in open source technologies, project management, or compliance could further enhance a candidate’s profile.

Having a master’s degree and/or professional certification not only signifies a candidate’s expertise but also indicates their commitment to continuous learning and leadership potential.

Moreover, several years of experience in software development, open-source licensing, and compliance are often required.

Familiarity with open source compliance tools and software is also beneficial.

Continuous education about evolving compliance standards and open source technologies is a must in this ever-changing field.

 

Open Source Compliance Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Open Source Compliance Manager is $108,487 (USD) per year.

This salary may fluctuate depending on a variety of factors including the individual’s level of experience, educational background, the size and industry of the employing company, and the cost of living in the geographical location.

 

Open Source Compliance Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Open Source Compliance Manager need?

Open Source Compliance Managers should have strong technical skills, including understanding of software development processes and open-source software.

They should also have solid knowledge of open-source licenses and their requirements.

Additionally, they need to have good project management and communication skills to effectively liaise between different teams and ensure compliance with open-source licenses.

 

Does an Open Source Compliance Manager need a specific degree?

While there’s no specific degree requirement for an Open Source Compliance Manager, a degree in Computer Science, IT or a related field can be beneficial.

Experience with software development, especially with open-source software, is often more important.

Some roles might also require legal knowledge or a background in intellectual property law due to the legal nature of licensing compliance.

 

What should you look for in an Open Source Compliance Manager resume?

In an Open Source Compliance Manager’s resume, look for experiences that demonstrate understanding of open-source licensing, software development and project management.

Any certifications or training related to open-source software or compliance can also be beneficial.

Also, note any experience with legal or IP matters.

 

What qualities make a good Open Source Compliance Manager?

A good Open Source Compliance Manager should be detail-oriented and organized, as they will often be dealing with complex licensing requirements and coordinating across different teams.

They should also be good at problem-solving and have the ability to understand and interpret legal and technical language.

Good communication skills are also crucial, as they will need to effectively convey compliance requirements to non-technical team members.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Open Source Compliance Manager?

Hiring an Open Source Compliance Manager can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a unique blend of technical and legal knowledge, as well as experience with open-source software.

However, with a clear job description and targeted recruitment efforts, it is possible to find professionals with the necessary skills and experience.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed some light on the compelling role of an Open Source Compliance Manager.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about managing licenses and following procedures.

It’s about shaping the open-source landscape, one policy at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive Open Source Compliance Manager job description template and hands-on examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why draw the line there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ideal companion for creating precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to match the role like a glove.

Remember:

Every policy you manage is a part of the broader open-source ecosystem.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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