Traffic Administrator III

Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus  ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus  ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

The Facilities and Logistics Operations Division (6400) ensures the physical development, maintenance, and safe operation of JPL’s infrastructure to support resilient systems and mission success. Within this division, the Logistics & Operations Planning Section (643) drives Lab‑wide logistics operations, spanning asset control, material movement, inventory management, and technical services in metrology and flight hardware support.

We are seeking a Traffic Administrator III to join the Shipping, Receiving & Mail Services Group (643C). In this position, you will manage complex domestic and international freight movements supporting critical NASA missions and Laboratory operations. This role leverages advanced expertise in multimodal transport, hazmat handling, EAR/ITAR export controls, and strategic carrier management to resolve operational issues, streamline logistics workflows, and ensure regulatory compliance.

As a lead and technical expert, your contributions will directly impact institutional efficiency, risk mitigation, and overall mission execution.

• Resolve highly complex domestic, international, and multimodal shipments by evaluating item specifications, determining applicable regulatory frameworks, and preparing end-to-end documentation (including hazardous materials clearance).
• Apply advanced knowledge of Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to prepare import/export control certifications, handle licensing/exemptions, and manage Temporary Admission (ATA Carnet) "Passport for Goods" activities and tracking logs.
• Interface with NASA centers, U.S. Space Command, and military bases to coordinate the air transport of spacecraft and high‑value flight hardware via Department of Defense (DoD) aircraft (e.g., C-17, C-5, C-130) to global destinations and launch facilities.
• Interpret international and federal laws, NASA policies and regulations, and Laboratory procedures that govern shipping and logistics operations.
• Audit carrier costs and performance. Conduct in‑depth analysis of vendor and route data to evaluate efficiency, manage risks, and recommend the continuation or adjustment of vendor contracts.
• Identify and implement logistics cost‑saving opportunities through optimized routing, mode selection, freight consolidation, and carrier scheduling, while balancing carrier costs against performance metrics.
• Recommend and partner across disciplines to implement corrective actions for complex coordination and consolidation challenges in domestic and international shipments.
• Lead project activities, function as an essential team member on cross‑organizational initiatives, and mentor/coach staff inside and outside the organization.
• Advise project teams, customers, and management on complex incoming/outbound shipment schedules, technical logistics constraints, and compliance requirements.
• Develop…