Air Freight Operations Manager Jobs in California

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Air Freight Import Supervisor to support and oversee daily Air Freight Import operations in Los Angeles. This role focuses on hands-on operational supervision, team coordination, and maintaining high service standards for perishable goods. The ideal candidate will have experience in air freight logistics, particularly with perishables, and strong organizational and customer service skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Supervision: Oversee day-to-day air freight import activities, including coordinating pickups from cargo airlines using reefer trucks, transporting goods to refrigerated warehouses, and assisting with USDA inspections, customs clearance, and documentation.
• Team Coordination: Supervise and support a team of import specialists, coordinators, and warehouse staff to ensure efficient workflows, regulatory compliance, and timely delivery or pickup coordination.
• Customer Coordination: Serve as a point of contact for customers (importers), assisting with delivery and pickup arrangements and resolving issues promptly to maintain service quality.
• Support Business Development: Assist in maintaining relationships with existing clients and support outreach efforts to identify new opportunities in perishable cargo segments such as seafood, pharmaceuticals, or specialty foods.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and support the implementation of best practices for handling temperature-sensitive cargo.
• Compliance and Quality Control: Ensure adherence to USDA, FDA, customs, and international trade regulations; monitor proper handling procedures to maintain product integrity.
• Performance Tracking: Monitor daily operational metrics such as on-time performance and service accuracy; report issues and trends to management.
• Issue Resolution: Address operational challenges and escalate complex issues as needed to minimize disruptions in the supply chain.

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in air freight imports, preferably in the perishable goods sector (e.g., flowers, produce, or temperature-controlled items).
• Prior experience in a lead or supervisory role is preferred.
• Working knowledge of U.S. customs procedures, USDA regulations, and international air freight operations.
• Familiarity with reefer transportation, cold chain logistics, and perishables handling.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, refrigerated warehouse environment as needed.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively coordinate with customers, vendors, and internal teams.
• Solid problem-solving abilities and attention to detail in a fast-paced operational setting.
• Proficiency in logistics software (e.g., CargoWise, TMS systems) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is highly desirable.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
• A collaborative and fast-paced work environment focused on excellence in perishable logistics.

Due to the seasonal nature of our business, flexibility in your work schedule is required, including the ability to work mandatory overtime during peak seasons. We appreciate your commitment to ensuring the success of our operations during these critical times.

This job description is not an inclusive or exhaustive list of responsibilities and may be updated or revised at the Company’s discretion to meet operational needs. Nothing in this job description alters the at-will nature of employment, which may be terminated by either the employee or the Company at any time, with or without cause or advance notice, in accordance with federal and state laws.

HPL Apollo LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local law.