Operations Specialist II, 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 European headquarters in Amsterdam, we leverage AI and patented technology to coordinate logistics across a global network of drivers and airlines. Our mission is to deliver mission-critical shipments—such as organs for transplant, aircraft parts, and semiconductors—faster, more transparently, and more securely than ever before. Backed by leading investors and recognized as one of America’s best startup employers, Airspace is growing rapidly and seeking passionate individuals to help reshape time-critical logistics.

About the role

As an Operations Specialist II, you’ll resolve moments that fall outside standard procedures—failed carrier connections, oversized loads, or high-pressure customer situations—without waiting for direction. You’ll act on incomplete information, source coverage others can’t, and de-escalate issues independently, transitioning from reactive execution to proactive ownership.

Responsibilities

• Perform all duties of an Operations Specialist I, plus:
• Resolve non-standard situations:
  • Initiate carrier traces for failed-to-load or lost shipments
  • Source driver coverage for any segment, including oversized shipments
  • Use bid/quote tools to secure specialized vehicles and provide cost estimates
  • Anticipate complications and proactively solve them using training and experience
• Exercise independent judgment:
  • De-escalate most situations without assistance
  • Determine when to escalate vs. resolve independently
  • Understand downstream impacts of order decisions
• Communicate proactively and improve the platform:
  • Engage customers, drivers, and agents at every shipment stage
  • Maintain sector-specific certifications and compliance knowledge
  • Suggest system or workflow improvements to benefit Operations
• Maintain performance metrics and service standards (varies by sector; communicated by supervisor)

Requirements

• Proven success as an Operations Specialist I or equivalent experience in time-critical logistics/customer operations
• Ability to make sound decisions under time pressure with incomplete information
• Track record of independently de-escalating difficult customer or operational situations
• Comfort sourcing non-standard solutions (e.g., specialized vehicles, oversized loads)
• Willingness to obtain sector-specific certifications (e.g., Dangerous Goods handling)
• Availability to work the required team shift pattern
• Commitment to 2 weeks of in-person training at our Carlsbad, CA headquarters

Advancement to Operations Specialist III

• Minimum 6–12 months in the OS II role
• Consistently meet or exceed OS II performance standards (tracked via 1:1s and two consecutive Semi-Annual Reviews)
• Demonstrated advanced problem-solving (resolving escalations independently)
• Working understanding of margin and cost tradeoffs in order decisions
• Manager recommendation confirming readiness to serve as an escalation point

Benefits

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

Pay

Hourly pay range: $23–26/hr

Core Values

• One Team: We accomplish more together.
• Impact: We strive for positive influence on our environment, customers, and industry.
• Passion: We care deeply about our mission and raise the bar.
• Transparency: We prioritize open, honest communication.
• Innovation: We never settle and continuously improve.