Logistics Manager, Battery Energy Storage
QcellsDescription We are seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Logistics Manager to lead transportation, warehousing, and trade compliance for BESS equipment and associated components. This role manages the end-to-end logistics process, from carrier and 3PL sourcing through shipment planning, hazardous materials compliance, import clearance, storage, and delivery to project sites. The Logistics Manager will collaborate with supply chain, project management, engineering, and finance to ensure safe, timely, cost-effective, and compliant delivery of equipment. The role may require up to 15% travel and is based in Santa Clara, CA. Responsibilities: Transportation & Project Logistics Own end-to-end logistics planning and execution for BESS platforms, coordinating shipments from multiple suppliers through contract manufacturers and integration partners to customer project sites. Develop project-specific logistics plans covering inbound components, shipment consolidation where appropriate, integrated-system transportation, delivery sequencing, and site readiness. Track logistics milestones against supplier, integration, and project schedules; proactively identify constraints and implement recovery plans to mitigate delays. Manage oversize/overweight and heavy-haul moves, including route surveys, permits, escorts, and crane and rigging coordination with site teams. Coordinate delivery windows with project managers and EPC contractors, confirming offloading and proof of delivery. Manage freight claims, cargo insurance, and damage resolution with carriers and suppliers. Contract Manufacturer & Supplier Coordination Coordinate inbound material deliveries and outbound finished-system shipments with suppliers, contract manufacturers, freight providers, and project teams. Establish logistics requirements and delivery schedules with suppliers and integration partners, including packaging, labeling, Incoterms, handling, and storage requirements. Hazardous Materials & Trade Compliance Ensure battery shipments comply with US DOT hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR, Class 9), including batteries installed in containers (UN3536), and with IMDG and IATA requirements for ocean and air freight. Manage imports with customs brokers, including HTS classification, duties and tariffs, ISF filings, and country-of-origin documentation. Maintain shipping and origin records required to support domestic content and FEOC compliance for US projects. Carrier, 3PL & Warehouse Management Source and contract carriers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, heavy-haul providers, and 3PLs; lead RFQs and rate negotiations. Manage 3PL storage of battery equipment, including state-of-charge maintenance, recharging schedules, and fire code and insurance requirements. Monitor provider performance through scorecards and implement corrective actions. Establish spares and service parts logistics for systems in the field. Product & Logistics Readiness Provide logistics and transportation input during product development, supplier qualification, and industrialization to identify shipping constraints and optimize packaging, handling, and delivered cost. Develop standardized logistics processes, cost models, and performance metrics that can scale across product generations and increasing project volumes. Logistics Planning & Systems Develop logistics budgets aligned with project schedules and business needs, and provide logistics cost input for proposals. Maintain accurate shipment, goods receipt, and inventory records in ERP (SAP), and implement TMS and shipment visibility tools. Reporting & Analytics Report on logistics KPIs, including on-time delivery, freight cost per unit, damage and claims rate, and detention and demurrage. Analyze freight spend and shipping data to identify risks, cost savings, and improvement opportunities. Other Responsibilities: Perform other duties and special projects assigned by Management. Required Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree in suppl…