Defense Logistics Operations Specialist

Shearer Companies; Elkridge (MD); On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Shearer Logistics is seeking a Defense Logistics Operations Specialist to manage international shipments for government and defense clients. You will coordinate bookings, documentation, and ensure compliance in a fast-paced environment.

Join a team that values problem solving, proactive communication, and reliable service delivery across air and ocean freight. Requires ITAR experience and TSA certification eligibility.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in defense logistics or freight forwarding.
• 2+ years supporting government/defense clients.
• ITAR compliance and shipping experience required.
• Strong knowledge of international shipping docs and processes.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and Outlook; CargoWise preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Ability to obtain TSA certification.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate import/export shipments from booking through delivery.
• Manage air and ocean bookings, routing, pickups, deliveries, and pre-alerts.
• Prepare and process shipping documentation (HAWBs, MAWBs, AES, manifests, bills of lading, origin certificates).
• Work with customers, carriers, overseas agents, customs brokers, and government/defense partners.
• Ensure shipments meet customer SOPs and ITAR, TSA, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare rates and quotes and support invoicing/billing.
• Resolve shipment issues proactively and keep customers and internal teams informed.
• Maintain strong relationships while delivering accurate, timely, and reliable service.

Skills

Defense logistics

Freight forwarding

ITAR compliance

Documentation

Customer service

Communication

Problem solving

MS Office

CargoWise

TSA certification

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

CargoWise

Job description

Defense Logistics Operations Specialist

Shearer Logistics is seeking a customer-focused, detail-oriented Defense Logistics Operations Specialist to manage international defense shipments and deliver exceptional service to government and defense clients.

This is a great opportunity for an experienced logistics professional who enjoys solving problems, coordinating complex shipments, and working in a fast-paced international environment.

What You'll Do

• Coordinate import/export shipments from booking through delivery.
• Manage air and ocean bookings, routing, pickups, deliveries, and pre-alerts.
• Prepare and process shipping documentation, including HAWBs, MAWBs, AES, manifests, bills of lading, and certificates of origin.
• Work with customers, carriers, overseas agents, customs brokers, and government/defense partners.
• Ensure shipments meet customer SOPs and applicable ITAR, TSA, and regulatory requirements.
• Prepare rates and quotes and support invoicing/billing.
• Resolve shipment issues proactively and keep customers and internal teams informed.
• Maintain strong relationships while delivering accurate, timely, and reliable service.

What You Bring

• 3+ years of defense logistics and/or freight forwarding experience.
• 2+ years supporting government or defense clients.
• ITAR compliance and shipping experience required.
• Strong knowledge of international shipping documentation and processes.
• Excellent customer service, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines independently.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; CargoWise experience preferred.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to obtain TSA certification.

Why Join Us?

Join a collaborative team where your logistics expertise directly supports high-priority defense and international supply chain operations. If you're someone who takes ownership, enjoys solving challenges, and wants to make an impact, we'd love to hear from you.