Project Manager - International Logistics and Shipping

Who We Are:  

Bluewater provides comprehensive and innovative solutions for managing the lifecycle of large format batteries and solar panels. As a startup committed to further developing a circular economy, we innovate in the reuse, recycling, and resale of EV, e-mobility, material handling equipment, and energy storage technologies to promote sustainability and resource efficiency. We’re on an exciting mission to reduce inefficiencies and enable a secondary marketplace for renewable energy equipment. 

Job Description:  

Bluewater is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead complex, cross-border logistics and shipping initiatives involving used lithium-ion batteries and renewable energy components. This role is ideal for a logistics professional with deep knowledge of international shipping regulations, customs compliance, and project execution in a high-stakes, regulated environment. You’ll be responsible for ensuring timely, safe, and compliant movement of materials across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia—partnering with vendors, government agencies, recyclers, and internal teams to support Bluewater’s operational and sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities:  

• Lead end-to-end planning and execution of international logistics projects involving battery exports/imports and solar components. 
• Define project scope, schedules, budgets, milestones, and deliverables. 
• Track progress, resolve issues, and report status to executive leadership. 
• Manage global shipment routing, documentation, and customs clearance across multiple jurisdictions. 
• Ensure full compliance with: Basel Convention and RCRA requirements for hazardous materials . HTS classification, import/export licensing, and incoterms, and IMDG, IATA, and ADR transport regulations for lithium-ion batteries 
• Oversee preparation and validation of shipping documents, including: Commercial invoices, packing lists, SDS, UN38.3 reports, manifests, movement documents 
• Manage and evaluate international freight forwarders, customs brokers, and recyclers. 
• Coordinate transboundary movement notifications and regulatory approvals. 
• Identify and mitigate risks related to international waste movement, storage, and processing. 
• Contribute to internal SOPs and EHS compliance programs.

Qualifications:  

Required  

• 5–10 years of experience in international logistics, shipping, or global supply chain project management 
• Strong understanding of hazardous materials shipping, especially UN3480 lithium-ion batteries 
• Proven experience with Basel Convention or cross-border environmental compliance 
• Proficiency in project management tools 
• Excellent communication and vendor management skills 
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment 

Preferred  

• PMP or Lean Six Sigma certification 
• Experience working with recyclers, customs brokers, and regulators in LATAM, EU, or APAC 
• Experience in renewable energy, e-waste, or circular economy sectors 

Why Bluewater Battery Logistics?  

• Opportunity for rapid career growth and clear ownership. 
• Health benefits: Medical and Dental Insurance are 100% paid for employees. 
• Team-oriented workplace: Bluewater has a team-first ethos. We work together toward a common goal and take pride in our collective and individual successes. You will be surrounded by passionate team members who are motivated to succeed. 
• Be part of something big: When you join the Bluewater team, you’ll be the first mover in an exciting time in the company’s life cycle. Your input will help form and shape the company. Your work will have an impact for years to come. 

Additional Information:  

• Santa Barbara, CA or Los Angeles, CA 
• This is an in-person role
• Job Type: Full-time 
• Salary: $105,000 - $130,000