Transportation Operations Coordinator

Transportation Operations CoordinatorSparks Group has partnered with a Global Aviation organization with over 30 years providing comprehensive aircraft inventory support for airlines, MROs, OEMs, and distributors. They provide a global reach serving customers' parts and inventory needs across 140+ countries. They are seeking a Transportation Operations Coordinator with 4-6 years in transportation, freight-forwarding or international logistics with end to end ownership.ResponsibilitiesSupport and optimize domestic and international transportation for Uplift operations, repair shipments, and ad hoc logistics.Manage shipment bookings, tracking, vendor relationships, customs coordination, and freight cost/service analysis.Ensure aircraft materials move safely, compliantly, on time, and cost-effectively.Serve as a key liaison across internal teams (Operations, Uplift, Repairs, Warehouse, Quality, Finance) and external partners (carriers, freight forwarders, customs brokers).Lead end-to-end transportation for Uplift, Repairs, and ad hoc requests from routing to proof of delivery; proactively resolve delays and exceptions.Coordinate pickup, routing, customs, delivery, and tracking for shipments to/from MROs and repair vendors.Qualify and manage carriers, freight forwarders, couriers, and customs brokers; negotiate rates, discounts, and terms to drive cost savings.Conduct vendor performance reviews, scorecards, and escalations; support RFQs/RFPs to balance cost, reliability, and speed.Create and maintain routing guides, booking procedures, escalation paths, standard operating procedures, and scalable playbooks.Monitor spend, transit times, on-time delivery, and exception rates; develop KPIs and actionable reporting for leadership.Analyze shipment history and carrier data to identify consolidation opportunities, network improvements, and cost reductions.Partner with internal teams to eliminate bottlenecks, improve handoffs, and align transportation requirements.Identify process gaps, build practical solutions, and drive continuous operational enhancements.Qualifications/Background ProfileStrong ownership mindset to independently resolve complex, ambiguous issues.Proven track record in vendor management, contract negotiations, and partner accountability.Ability to build processes, standards, SOPs, and reporting systems from scratch.Strong analytical skills focused on freight costs, transit performance, and transportation KPIs.Excellent cross-functional influence, organization, and clear communication.Proficiency in MS Excel, ERP/TMS platforms, carrier portals, and data dashboards.Solid grasp of international trade, import/export operations, customs documentation, and Incoterms.Experience & QualificationsEducation: Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Transportation, or Business (or equivalent experience).Experience: 4–6+ years in transportation, freight forwarding, or international logistics with end-to-end ownership.Logistics Scope: Hands-on experience with domestic/international air freight, parcel, ground, courier, and time-critical shipments.Negotiation & Process Building: Demonstrated history negotiating freight terms and implementing routing guides, KPIs, or SOPs.Technical & Industry Preferred: Experience in aviation, aerospace, MRO, or high-value technical distribution; familiarity with ATA Spec 300 packaging and IATA Dangerous Goods/Hazmat certification is a plus.