Localization Operations Specialist

Overview

Smartling is an AI-native translation platform that’s redefining how the world’s biggest brands go global - ranked #3 on Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies list. We’re growing rapidly at scale and are backed by Battery Ventures, a global technology-focused investment firm. While most companies are still figuring out how to use AI, we’ve spent years building it into the core of our platform - and we’re just getting started.

As a Localization Operations Specialist on the Managed Services team, you’ll own the end-to-end localization lifecycle for a portfolio of enterprise clients, serving as both their operational point of contact and a key contributor to how our team delivers value.

This is a role for someone who brings real localization experience, thrives in a fast-paced, remote-first environment, and is energized by the challenge of balancing operational precision with strong client relationships. We are looking for a hire based on the US East Coast at this time.

• Act as your clients’ embedded localization operations expert, serving as the primary operational point of contact and trusted advisor for assigned accounts.
• Foster strong stakeholder relationships, navigate competing priorities, and coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure the successful execution and continuous improvement of clients’ localization programs.
• Design and optimize localization processes within Smartling’s platform and client-preferred project management and content management tools, overseeing the end-to-end job lifecycle and tailoring configurations to each client’s unique requirements, including effective use of AI tooling where applicable.
• Solve problems both independently and collaboratively, bringing a solutions-first mindset to client challenges and internal roadblocks.
• Proactively drive operational excellence by identifying and implementing process improvements, documenting best practices, and leveraging automation and AI-enabled solutions to streamline workflows, enhance scalability, and improve team efficiency.

• At least 2-3 years of experience in localization or translation project management, ideally within a managed services or agency environment
• Solid understanding of localization file formats, content types, and CAT/TMS tooling
• Strong client management skills: comfortable leading calls, navigating difficult conversations, and representing the team externally
• Proficiency with project management and reporting tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Google Sheets, Looker, or equivalent)
• Experience coordinating with cross-functional teams across engineering, QA, and vendor management
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with sharp attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities across time zones
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Hands-on experience with Smartling or other TMS platforms (such as Phrase, XTM, or MemoQ)
• Experience supporting enterprise or SaaS clients in an operational or customer-facing role.
• Fluency or working proficiency in a second language
• Interest in language, technology, or global content strategy

• Accountable. You take full ownership of your accounts, addressing issues promptly and documenting root causes and preventative actions for future improvement.
• Customer-Focused. You understand that client deadlines and requirements are real business commitments and consistently approach them with urgency, accountability, and care.
• Adaptable. You adjust effectively to changing scope, priorities, and unexpected client inputs without losing focus or execution quality.
• Communicative. You proactively stay ahead of client needs by sharing status updates, surfacing risks early, and contributing insights, guidance,…