Operations Specialist I, Aerospace & Defense (US)

Airspace is a tech-enabled freight forwarder redefining how the world’s most critical packages are delivered. Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, with employees worldwide and European headquarters in Amsterdam, Airspace leverages AI, machine learning, and patented technology to coordinate logistics across a global network of drivers and airlines. We specialize in time-critical shipments—from organs for transplant to parts for grounded aircraft and sensitive components like semiconductors—ensuring speed, transparency, security, and accountability. Recognized as one of America’s best Startup Employers and a CNBC Disruptor 50 company, Airspace is backed by leading investors and has raised over $140M to fuel rapid global growth.

About the role

As an Operations Specialist I, you are the first point of contact for new orders, setting the foundation for seamless execution. This entry-level role is designed to build your expertise in the Airspace platform, workflows, and the judgment calls essential to time-critical logistics. You’ll learn the fundamentals fast, preparing you for advancement as you master the role.

Responsibilities

• Operate the Airspace Platform
  • Set up new orders following standard work practices and client-specific SOP instructions.
  • Apply transit accessorials (e.g., wait time, parking, tolls) in PT for charges not auto-generated by the system.
  • Navigate and interpret carrier booking and tracking systems relevant to the order.
  • Accurately confirm job milestones are completed correctly and on time.
  • Rapidly shift between competing priorities without sacrificing accuracy.
• Solve Problems as They Arise
  • Source driver coverage for any segment of an order.
  • Use situational awareness to request or deny additional driver incentives when necessary.
  • Update, manage, and/or change shipment documentation as needed.
  • Apply training and experience to resolve common or uncommon issues.
  • Follow escalation procedures and guidance from senior team members for situations beyond your judgment.
• Keep Customers Informed
  • Professionally relay delays, issues, and updates through verbal and written communication.
  • Anticipate disruptions (e.g., weather, traffic, carrier delays) and proactively offer alternatives to meet or beat delivery times.
  • Place orders on behalf of customers unable to use the online portal.
• Stay Responsive Across Channels
  • Timely acknowledgment and action on all email, phone, and text requests.
  • Consistently meet minimum metric expectations for phone availability and acceptance.
  • Proper use of phone statuses; adherence to All Hands on Deck and Off-Phones guidelines.
  • Stay independently informed by reviewing all communications on company platforms.
• Maintain a Balanced Level of Performance

  Meet minimum metric requirements and customer service standards for an entry-level position. Expectations will be communicated by your supervisor and increase with advancement.

Requirements

• Prior logistics experience preferred but not required—training provided on the platform, workflows, and judgment calls.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable handling time-sensitive customer calls.
• High attention to detail—small errors can have significant consequences in time-critical logistics.
• Ability to multitask and shift rapidly between competing priorities.
• Comfortable following structured processes while using judgment for non-standard situations.
• Willingness to obtain sector-specific certifications (e.g., Dangerous Goods handling, if applicable).
• Available to work the shift pattern required by your team, including evenings, weekends, or holidays as needed.
• Available for 2 weeks of in-person training at our Carlsbad, CA headquarters.

Advancement to Operations Specialist II

Advancement is performance-based, not time-based. To progress to OS II, you must demonstrate:

• Minimum of 6 months in the OS I role.
• Consistently meeting or exceeding OS I performance standards, tracked through 1:1 check-ins and confirmed at your first Semi-Annual Review (SAR).
• Proficiency across all OS I responsibilities with minimal supervision.
• Manager recommendation, confirming readiness to independently handle the additional judgment calls required at OS II.

Your First 90 Days

In your first three months, you’ll become fluent in the Airspace platform, order lifecycle, and standard work practices. You’ll build relationships with your team, supervisor, and external partners (Commanders and agents). By day 90, you should be handling the full OS I workload independently, using escalation as a safety net rather than a default.

Pay

Hourly pay range: $20–23/hr.

Benefits

• High-quality health, vision, and dental care plan options.
• 401K company contribution program.
• Professional learning and training reimbursements.

Core Values

• One Team: We accomplish more when we work together.
• Impact: We are determined to positively influence our environment, customers, industry, and world.
• Passionate: We care deeply about our mission and raise the bar without hesitation.
• Transparent: We pride ourselves on open, honest, and sincere communication.
• Innovative: We never settle and always strive to improve our product, service, and ourselves.