Job Details

The Facilities and Logistics Operations Division (6400) ensures the physical development, maintenance, and safe operation of JPL's infrastructure to support resilient systems and mission success. Within this division, the Logistics & Operations Planning Section (643) drives Lab-wide logistics operations, spanning asset control, material movement, inventory management, and technical services in metrology and flight hardware support.

We are seeking a Traffic Administrator III to join the Shipping, Receiving & Mail Services Group (643C). In this position, you will manage complex domestic and international freight movements supporting critical NASA missions and Laboratory operations. This role leverages advanced expertise in multimodal transport, hazmat handling, EAR/ITAR export controls, and strategic carrier management to resolve operational issues, streamline logistics workflows, and ensure regulatory compliance. As a lead and technical expert, your contributions will directly impact institutional efficiency, risk mitigation, and overall mission execution.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Resolve highly complex domestic, international, and multimodal shipments by evaluating item specifications, determining applicable regulatory frameworks, and preparing end-to-end documentation (including hazardous materials clearance).
• Apply advanced knowledge of Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to prepare import/export control certifications, handle licensing/exemptions, and manage Temporary Admission (ATA Carnet) "Passport for Goods" activities and tracking logs.
• Interface with NASA centers, U.S. Space Command, and military bases to coordinate the air transport of spacecraft and high-value flight hardware via Department of Defense (DoD) aircraft (e.g., C-17, C-5, C-130) to global destinations and launch facilities.
• Interpret international and federal laws, NASA policies and regulations, and Laboratory procedures that govern shipping and logistics operations.
• Audit carrier costs and performance. Conduct in-depth analysis of vendor and route data to evaluate efficiency, manage risks, and recommend the continuation or adjustment of vendor contracts.
• Identify and implement logistics cost-saving opportunities through optimized routing, mode selection, freight consolidation, and carrier scheduling, while balancing carrier costs against performance metrics.
• Recommend and partner across disciplines to implement corrective actions for complex coordination and consolidation challenges in domestic and international shipments.
• Lead project activities, function as an essential team member on cross-organizational initiatives, and mentor/coach staff inside and outside the organization.
• Advise project teams, customers, and management on complex incoming/outbound shipment schedules, technical logistics constraints, and compliance requirements.
• Develop and deliver training on shipping software applications, regulatory requirements, institutional operational procedures, and industry best practices.

Required Qualifications:

• Typically requires bachelor's degree in supply chain, Logistics, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field with 6 years of directly related experience; master's degree with 4 years of related experience; or Ph.D. with 2 years of related experience.
• Comprehensive expertise in U.S. and international shipping regulations, including hazardous materials transportation (49 CFR, IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, IMDG Code), customs clearance procedures, EAR, and ITAR.
• Proven ability to analyze complex vendor, route, and performance metrics, evaluate carrier costs against service level agreements, and formulate data-driven vendor recommendations.
• Proficiency with enterprise shipping/logistics management software and Microsoft Office Suite (advanced Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Demonstrated ability to work independently on key assignments with limited direction, exercising discretion and critical thinking to resolve complex operational challenges.
• Track record of leading multidisciplinary teams or project activities, setting performance standards, and guiding colleagues through complex workflows.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a proven capability to present, validate, and analyze complex information for senior management, external industry partners, and government agencies.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in aerospace, defense, Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), or government contracting environments supporting NASA or DoD space flight hardware operations.
• Direct experience handling specialized JPL/NASA flight hardware handling and transportation standards.
• Strong understanding of Laboratory policies, NASA policies and procedures, and government regulations applicable to shipping.
• Proven track record of contributing to the development or revision of organizational logistics policies, traffic management procedures, or institutional best practices.

Note: The nature of this work may require occasional non-standard hours to meet critical project deadlines and support operational requirements.

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee's start date.

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.

$89,752 - $114,608