Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson’s, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.
Van Andel Institute (VAI) is home to over 500 scientists, educators and staff — each one of us connected to the work we do and driven by an urgent desire to improve health and enhance lives.
VAI’s Materials Management group is looking for a highly motivated and collaborative Logistics Manager to join their team to help lead the Institute’s logistics operations by overseeing shipping, receiving, internal distribution, and related processes for both domestic and international activities.
Your key areas of responsibility will include:
o Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all logistics activities, including domestic and international shipping and receiving.
o Ensure all shipments and receipts, including regulated and hazardous materials, comply with applicable institutional policies, trade regulations, and safety requirements.
o Serve as the administrator for all logistics and shipping software platforms utilized in departmental operations, ensuring accurate configuration, user support, and effective system performance.
o Establish departmental goals, priorities, and performance standards aligned with institutional objectives.
o Lead, mentor, and develop logistics staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
o Design and monitor workflow plans to ensure efficient and timely handling of all shipments.
o Assume responsibility for all import/export operations, ensuring compliance with trade, customs, and regulatory requirements, while staying current on evolving regulations.
o Serve as the primary contact for complex shipments and regulatory questions, engaging with transportation providers, customs brokers, and government agencies.
o Develop and maintain procedures, compliance documentation, and operational tools to standardize processes.
o Analyze and monitor vendor performance, negotiate service agreements, and resolve service issues.
o Approve and balance staffing coverage to meet operational demands.
o Address personnel issues and lead performance management activities, including evaluations and corrective action when necessary.
o Prepare and analyze management reports to monitor performance, compliance, and cost efficiency.
o Provide high-level operational support during peak demand, staffing gaps, or institutional priorities.
o Perform other duties as assigned.
Necessary qualifications:
o Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, or related field required.
o Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in logistics, supply chain, or related field, with direct responsibility for domestic and international shipping and compliance.
o Customs brokerage experience strongly preferred.
o Excellent negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills.
o Strong knowledge of regulatory compliance, trade regulations, and safety requirements.
o Proficiency with ERP systems and shopping/logistics management software, including reporting and operational tracking tools.
o Experience working in an academic, nonprofit, or research environment preferred.
Description of a successful Candidate:
o A self-motivated and driven individual who is able to exhibit exceptional productivity and take responsibility for independent management of a project.
o A detail-oriented individual who keeps a clear grasp of the big picture.
o A team player with a proven ability to lead, develop, and retain high-performing teams.
Application Process:
If you possess these attributes and enjoy working with motivated and driven people, we welcome speaking with you and encourage you to apply online today by submitting a single combined pdf including:
o An up to date Resume
o A Cover Letter outlining your interests and goals
If you have questions about the application process or working at VAI you are welcome to email Natalie Hartford, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist at natalie.hartford@vai.org
About Van Andel Institute
Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute’s scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K–12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology.
VAI is committed to excellence through broad participation and diverse perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for innovation and collaboration.
Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer.
As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process. This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines.
About Grand Rapids, MI
Van Andel Institute is in downtown
Grand Rapids, Michigan
in the center of the
Medical Mile
. A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth,
Grand Rapids
is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It’s fun affordable and family-friendly.
Located on the banks of the Grand River,
Grand Rapids
offers all the big-city excitement you’d expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.

Please refer the Job description for details