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Detroit, Michigan, United States
Hybrid
At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.
We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.
Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, visit observable.space.
Observable Space is hiring a Logistics Associate to help manage the movement of materials, components, and finished systems across our growing operations. You’ll coordinate both inbound shipments from suppliers and outbound shipments of our systems and equipment to customers and sites across the U.S. and internationally.
This role sits at the intersection of manufacturing, supply chain, and customer delivery. You’ll own the day-to-day coordination of shipments from planning through delivery — working with carriers, freight forwarders, suppliers, customers, and internal teams; preparing required documentation; tracking shipments; and proactively resolving issues when plans change. As our operations expand into more customers, sites, and countries, you’ll help build the processes needed to make our logistics operations reliable and scalable.
Shipment Coordination
Coordinate domestic and international inbound and outbound shipments with carriers, freight forwarders, suppliers, customers, and internal teams
Manage shipments from initial planning through final delivery, ensuring materials and systems arrive where they need to be, when they need to be there
Coordinate inbound shipments of materials and components from suppliers to support manufacturing schedules
Coordinate outbound shipments of finished systems, equipment, spare parts, and other materials to customers and deployment sites
Track multiple active shipments and proactively communicate status, delays, and changes to relevant stakeholders
Troubleshoot transportation delays, missed deliveries, damaged shipments, and other logistics issues through resolution
International Shipping & Documentation
Prepare and maintain shipping documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and customs documentation
Coordinate with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and other partners to support international shipments and customs clearance
Coordinate customs and commercial documentation for equipment traveling with Field Support/Services personnel, including tools, spare parts, and replacement or warranty items
Gather and verify shipment information needed for import and export requirements
Maintain accurate and complete shipment records and supporting documentation
Escalate complex customs, regulatory, or international shipping issues when additional expertise is required
Logistics Operations
Maintain accurate logistics trackers and systems so internal teams have visibility into shipment status and upcoming deliveries
Coordinate closely with Manufacturing, Sales, Sourcing, Field Support, and Marketing to align shipments with production and customer requirements
Review freight costs and support efforts to improve shipping efficiency, cost, and reliability
Help develop and improve standard logistics processes, documentation, and workflows as the company scales
Provide additional logistics and supply chain support as priorities evolve
Experience in logistics, transportation, freight, shipping, supply chain coordination, or a similar role
Experience coordinating domestic shipments; exposure to international shipping and customs documentation is strongly preferred
Strong organizational skills and the ability to coordinate multiple shipments and priorities simultaneously
Exceptional attention to detail, particularly when preparing and reviewing shipping and customs documentation
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to troubleshoot problems, adapt quickly when plans change, and drive issues through resolution
Comfort working with ERP systems, shipping platforms, spreadsheets, and other logistics tools
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
Highly organized and comfortable managing multiple moving pieces at once
Proactive — you track shipments closely, anticipate issues, and communicate before someone has to ask
Detail-oriented and understand that small errors in shipping documentation can create significant delays
Resourceful and calm when transportation, customs, or scheduling challenges arise
A clear communicator who can work effectively with suppliers, carriers, customers, and internal teams
Customer-focused and understand the importance of delivering on commitments
Accountable and committed to following issues through to resolution
Play a pivotal role in getting our systems and equipment to customers and sites around the world
Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.
Equity Opportunities – Take part in our success with stock options.
Flexible Work Environment – Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)
Unlimited PTO (exempt only) – Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.
Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.
Cutting-Edge Tools – Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.
Mission-Driven Culture – Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.
Inclusive Team – We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.
Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
