Logistics Operations Specialist

About the role

Optics11 is looking for an experienced, hands-on Logistics Operations Specialist to lead the execution of complex movements of equipment, components and project materials across the world. You will own shipment planning, freight coordination, shipping documentation, customs coordination and delivery follow-up. You should understand the full logistics process, anticipate problems and resolve them directly when plans change.

The warehouse lead remains responsible for day-to-day warehouse operations. You will work closely with that team and jointly pack and prepare shipments. You must also know warehouse processes well enough to support or cover operational activities when workload or absence requires it. This is a practical role in a growing technology company, with scope to improve procedures and bring structure to international logistics.

Key responsibilities

• International shipments. Plan and execute inbound and outbound shipments for customers, suppliers, subcontractors, demonstrations, project deployments, repairs and returns. Manage split deliveries, multiple destinations, tight deadlines and special handling needs.

• Transport and partners. Select suitable air, sea and road freight options; compare quotations, routes, costs and transit times. Coordinate freight forwarders, carriers and customs brokers from collection through final delivery.

• Shipping documentation and customs coordination. Prepare and verify commercial invoices, packing lists, transport documents and customs information for international shipments. Ensure product descriptions, quantities, values, country of origin, consignee details and delivery terms are accurate and consistent. Coordinate with freight forwarders and customs brokers to support clearance, and confirm with the responsible internal team that any required export-control review or approval has been completed before dispatch.

• Packing with Warehousing. Work hands-on with the warehouse team to choose suitable packaging and jointly pack, protect and label goods. Check quantities, dimensions, weights and handling requirements, and ensure both packed goods and documents are ready for collection.

• Special movements and problem solving. Arrange temporary exports and imports, trials, demonstrations and returns, including the route back. Track shipments and take action on customs holds, missed connections, documentation gaps, loss, damage and delays. Communicate risks and revised delivery plans clearly.

Warehouse support and cover

Step in alongside the warehouse team when needed, including during peak workloads or absence. Support receiving and checking incoming goods, storage and stock movements, cycle counts, picking for production and projects, and dispatch preparation. Record transactions accurately in the inventory system and maintain identification and traceability, including separation of goods awaiting inspection, accepted stock and nonconforming goods. Coordinate priorities with the warehouse lead, who retains ownership of warehouse operations.

Cost and process control

Check freight invoices against quotations, resolve claims and monitor carrier performance. Set practical standards for shipment readiness, documentation and tracking as volumes and project complexity grow.

Why Join Us:

• Join one of Europe’s most promising deep-tech scale-ups

• Dynamic, collaborative, and inclusive work environment in Amsterdam.

• Enjoy regular team activities and company events

• Fresh team lunches provided 5 times / week

Required Background:

• At least five years of hands-on international logistics experience, independently managing complex shipments across countries and regions and taking them through to delivery.

• Strong practical knowledge of air, sea and road freight, Incoterms, customs clearance, import and export documentation, insurance and freight costs.

• Working awareness of export-control requirements and the ability to recognise when a shipment needs review by the responsible specialist.

• Practical warehousing experience and confidence with receiving, stock accuracy, picking, packing and inventory systems, so you can support the team when required.

• Ability to work directly with freight forwarders, customs brokers, carriers, suppliers and customers, challenge unclear information and resolve operational issues.

• Strong organisation, attention to detail and professional English; confidence using Excel and ERP or logistics systems.

• A flexible, hands-on approach suited to a start-up or scale-up, with the ability to manage changing priorities and improve processes without excessive administration.

Preferred experience

• Experience with sensitive technical equipment, high-value goods, project-based deliveries, temporary imports and exports, or shipments to challenging destinations is particularly valuable.

• A relevant logistics qualification is welcome; equivalent practical experience is equally valued.

Security & Compliance:

You'll be working with clients in the defense and security sectors, obtaining a Certificate of No Objection issued by the AIVD (Dutch General Intelligence and Security Service) is mandatory. This means you will need to undergo a security screening. For more information, please refer to details on security screening.