Flexport Forward Deployed Engineer at Flexport embedding with clients to audit supply chain data and build optimization models. Lead solution design and partner with engineering teams to deploy workflows optimizing global trade.
Responsibilities
Order, booking, and shipment management
Transportation planning, consolidation, and exception management
Data integrations, workflow automation, and operational analytics
You won't just analyze data in a vacuum: you will write Python scripts, design supply chain algorithms, whiteboard architectures with C-suite leaders, and deploy live automated workflows that optimize cargo moving across ocean, air, and land networks.
Embed & Audit: Deploy directly to client headquarters and logistics hubs to map physical and digital processes, audit supply chain data, uncover root-cause bottlenecks, and quantify hard-dollar ROI across freight, tariffs, and inventory.
Architect Optimization Models: Design, prototype, and scale mathematical supply chain models using Python, SQL, and proprietary tools. Focus on mode mix planning, 3D origin bin-packing, container payload balancing, dynamic safety stock, and supplier consolidation.
Lead Solution Design & Product Integration: Serve as the technical solution design lead across Flexport capabilities (Order & Shipment Management, Transportation Planning, Data Integration). Partner with FDEs and core engineering teams to turn your mathematical models into production workflows inside the Flexport Control Tower and Workflows platform.
Drive Executive Strategy & Proposals: Partner with commercial teams to co-create high-impact client proposals. Translate complex data models into clear business stories, presenting ROI projections directly to executive stakeholders (COOs, CFOs, VPs of Supply Chain).
Bridge Strategy & Frontline Execution: Work side-by-side with frontline operations teams at ports, cross-docks, and client sites to validate models in live workflows, collect operational feedback, and ensure lasting adoption.
Own End-to-End Program Workstreams: Manage 90-day deployment sprints from start to finish—building project roadmaps, running data pipelines, eliminating roadblocks, and delivering measurable results against aggressive timelines.
Productize Field Insights: Identify root causes of logistics losses, build reusable playbooks, and partner with product managers to transform solutions into permanent platform features.
Qualification
Location$120Commitment to Equal Opportunity
Preferred
Formal certifications or experience in Lean, Six Sigma, PMP, Agile, SCRUM, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
Deep expertise in global freight forwarding, customs compliance, TMS/WMS software (SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Manhattan), or trade finance.
Prior experience in high-growth tech startups, top-tier management/supply chain consulting firms, or product management environments.
Location: San Francisco, CA (up to 50% travel required)
The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire base salary for the position in the posting's respective region. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range displayed, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and / or training. Base salary is just one part of our total rewards package at Flexport, which also includes bonus, equity, and comprehensive benefit offerings such as medical, dental, and flexible time off.
The US base salary range for this position (this does not include bonus, equity and benefits):
