Senior Manager, Fleet Logistics

Saildrone • Alameda, CA

28d

About The Position

Saildrone is seeking a Senior Manager of Logistics to join our Operations team. Reporting directly to the VP of Fleet Operations, you will play a critical role in ensuring the reliable, compliant, and cost-effective movement of Saildrone vehicles and mission-critical equipment across the globe, enabling on-time deployment in complex and remote environments. As the senior authority on logistics execution, we are looking for a technical expert and operational leader who creates clarity from ambiguity and has a proven track record of independently driving carrier strategy and execution in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in global logistics, freight forwarding, or international transportation, with a background in maritime, defense, aerospace, or time-sensitive startup environments.
• Demonstrated proficiency in multi-modal transportation and deep expertise in managing complex customs clearance entries and high-scrutiny international trade compliance.
• Proven ability to manage and hold accountable global freight forwarders, customs brokers, and specialized carrier networks (Project Cargo, NVOCCs).
• Strong working knowledge of regulatory requirements, including ITAR, EAR, HTS, and Dangerous Goods (IATA, IMDG).
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex logistics issues and make high-stakes decisions under time pressure and operational ambiguity.
• Ability to clearly communicate technical shipping status, risk mitigation plans, and commercial negotiations to the Operations Leaders, cross-functional partners, and customers.
• Working knowledge of logistics systems, TMS platforms, and reporting frameworks required to operate in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform end-to-end global logistics operations across air, ocean (FCL/LCL, breakbulk), and ground transportation to achieve on-time, in-full delivery, including the specialized movement of oversized cargo requiring crating, rigging, and specialized handling.
• Be accountable for international freight forwarding and customs clearance, including full ownership of documentation integrity, HTS classification, and strict adherence to ITAR/EAR regulations across multiple international jurisdictions.
• Work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Field Operations to align shipping plans with build schedules and provide strategic guidance on packaging, compliance, and routing for new product introductions.
• Carry out day-to-day logistics planning and execution by optimizing carrier selection and mode decisions (expedited vs. standard) based on cost, urgency, and mission requirements.
• Monitor for shipment delays, customs hold-ups, and geopolitical risks; take immediate action to mitigate disruptions and develop contingency plans for high-priority shipments.
• Adhere to and improve internal SOPs, while owning relationships with global freight forwarders, NVOCCs, and brokers to negotiate rates, contracts, and service-level agreements (SLAs).
• Provide timely updates on shipment status and risks to the Leadership and external stakeholders—including government customers and port authorities—to support coordinated execution across global deployments.
• Establish a culture of accountability and operational excellence by recruiting and mentoring high-performing talent and partners, ensuring the team can scale to support complex, expeditionary logistics at a global level.

Benefits

• Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents—providing security and peace of mind.
• Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work.
• Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning.
• Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field.
• Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world’s best talent to our mission-critical locations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed