Senior Logistics Coordinator I

About the role

Rocket Lab is a leading space organization committed to providing reliable launch services, spacecraft design, and manufacturing solutions. The Senior Logistics Coordinator will be a key member of the supply chain team, responsible for managing the logistics operations related to the Electron launch vehicle components. This role involves coordinating domestic and international shipments, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations, and maintaining accurate documentation. The successful candidate will work closely with vendors, internal teams, and external partners to facilitate the smooth movement of critical parts, supporting Rocket Lab's mission to deliver innovative space launch capabilities. The position requires on-site presence at the Middle River, MD location, where the coordinator will oversee logistics activities in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Organize, plan, and oversee inbound shipments of components and materials necessary for Rocket Lab's Electron launch vehicles, ensuring they arrive on schedule.
• Manage outbound shipments, coordinating transportation providers to deliver finished products and equipment to customers and partners worldwide.
• Develop and maintain detailed shipping schedules, tracking shipments from origin to destination, and proactively addressing any delays or issues that may arise.
• Ensure all shipments comply with international and domestic shipping regulations, including customs requirements, import/export controls, and safety standards.
• Prepare and review shipping documentation such as bills of lading, commercial invoices, export licenses, and other compliance paperwork to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Collaborate with freight forwarders, carriers, and customs brokers to facilitate smooth transportation processes and resolve any logistical challenges.
• Maintain detailed records of all shipments, including tracking information, delivery confirmations, and compliance documentation, in accordance with company policies.
• Monitor and analyze logistics KPIs, preparing reports for management that highlight performance, issues, and opportunities for process improvements.
• Identify and implement process enhancements to streamline logistics workflows, reduce costs, and improve delivery times.
• Mentor and support logistics team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to address potential disruptions in the supply chain, including natural disasters, transportation strikes, or regulatory changes.
• Communicate effectively with internal departments such as engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance to coordinate shipment schedules and resolve logistical issues.
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, and transportation providers, regularly evaluating their performance and compliance with contractual obligations.
• Support the onboarding of new vendors and logistics partners, ensuring they meet Rocket Lab's standards and requirements.
• Stay informed about changes in international shipping regulations, hazardous materials handling, and transportation standards relevant to the aerospace industry.
• Assist in audits and compliance reviews related to shipping and logistics activities, ensuring adherence to all applicable regulations and internal policies.
• Participate in cross-functional meetings to align logistics strategies with overall project timelines and company objectives.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; a bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, or related field is preferred.
• At least 2 years of experience in logistics coordination, freight forwarding, or supply chain management.
• Strong understanding of international shipping regulations, customs procedures, and import/export compliance.
• Knowledge of IATA and IMDG standards for hazardous materials handling and shipping.
• Experience working with fully integrated ERP systems and logistics management software.
• Proficiency in Windows operating systems and Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• Familiarity with documentation requirements for international shipments, including bills of lading, commercial invoices, and export licenses.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with vendors, carriers, and internal teams.
• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to quickly resolve logistical issues and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Ability to work independently, follow established procedures, and contribute to team goals.
• Attention to detail and a high level of accuracy in documentation and record-keeping.
• Willingness to work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines and high expectations.

Nice to have

• Experience in aerospace, automotive, or heavy manufacturing industries.
• Certification in dangerous goods handling, such as IMDG or IATA certifications.
• Knowledge of Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and other logistics software tools.
• Previous experience coordinating shipments via multiple transportation modes, including air, ocean, trucking, and parcel services.
• Familiarity with supply chain risk management and contingency planning.
• Experience working in a high-growth, dynamic environment with evolving processes.
• Strong negotiation skills for managing vendor and carrier relationships.
• Multilingual abilities to support international shipping and vendor communication.
• Additional training or certifications related to logistics, supply chain, or project management.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency with logistics management software and tracking tools.
• Strong analytical skills for monitoring KPIs, analyzing data, and preparing reports.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to adapt to new software and technological tools quickly.
• Knowledge of hazardous materials handling and shipping standards.
• Familiarity with customs clearance processes and documentation.

Practical notes

This role involves on-site work at the Middle River, MD location. The position may require extended periods of sitting, standing, walking, and working at a computer. Occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes may occur in production or warehouse areas. The logistics coordinator will need to coordinate shipments across various transportation modes, including air, ocean, trucking, and parcel services, often requiring flexibility to meet tight deadlines. The role demands a proactive approach, strong organizational skills, and the ability to handle multiple priorities simultaneously. Candidates should be prepared to work in a fast-paced environment with high expectations for accuracy and compliance. The position may involve occasional after-hours work to coordinate international shipments or resolve urgent logistical issues. The successful candidate will be committed to maintaining high standards of safety, compliance, and operational excellence in support of Rocket Lab's mission to deliver innovative space launch solutions.