Govt. & Defense : Operations Specialist

JAS Worldwide•Sterling, VA

About The Position

JAS is an international, non-asset-based supply chain services and solutions company. The Operations Specialist facilitates the movement of Government & Defense products, equipment, and materials into and out of the country by ocean and air freight, in accordance with company policies and procedures and applicable local, national, and international laws. The role provides export customer service, including bookings, rates, documentation, accounting, agent coordination, and problem resolution. The position coordinates transportation documentation and cargo movement, works with U.S. federal agencies, foreign militaries, defense contractors, customers, suppliers, and overseas agents, and supports compliance with federal, international, and commercial contract requirements. It also manages shipment tracking, rates, customer files, invoicing and payable approvals, file audits, and operational and customer KPIs. The role has no supervisory responsibilities and may support other departments as requested.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 2 years of experience handling air freight shipments, or a combination of education and expertise.
Excellent organizational skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong computer skills, including the Microsoft Office suite.
Detail oriented, able to multitask, and able to meet deadlines.
Self-motivated and able to work both independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge of customs laws, practices, and procedures.
Able to perform the essential duties without posing a direct threat to the health or safety of self or others.
Able to interact positively and effectively with coworkers, subordinates, and supervisors.

Nice To Haves

Additional languages.
Geographical knowledge.
Experience in the freight forwarding industry.
Experience handling Government & Defense-related shipments.
Knowledge of U.S. export compliance.
CargoWise (C1) experience.

Responsibilities

Prepare and coordinate documentation for efficient, cost-effective, and lawful air transportation.
Coordinate with U.S. federal agencies, foreign militaries, and defense contractors to meet their specific needs.
Work under federal, international, and commercial contract requirements, providing service and proactive communications while maintaining compliance and contract performance.
Coordinate cargo pickup and transfer and monitor shipment status.
Communicate with authorities, customers, and suppliers across relevant territories and countries to support efficient, positive, and lawful operations.
Manage and update carrier and vendor rates and obtain spot rates when necessary.
Correspond with overseas agents and clients, including regarding pre-alerts, rate requests, and shipment status.
Track shipments and provide status updates to customers and agents.
Create and maintain customer files.
Invoice customers and approve payables.
Audit files for accuracy and completeness.
Complete U.S. Customs AES filings and/or submit information to the customs house brokerage team for import entry filings.
Manage JAS operational and customer Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
Interact with coworkers professionally and courteously.
Assist other departments or divisions as needed or when requested by the department or branch manager.