Smartling is an AI-native translation platform that's redefining how the world's biggest brands go global - ranked #3 on Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies list. We're growing rapidly at scale and are backed by Battery Ventures, a global technology-focused investment firm. While most companies are still figuring out how to use AI, we've spent years building it into the core of our platform - and we're just getting started.
As a Localization Operations Specialist on the Managed Services team, you'll own the end-to-end localization lifecycle for a portfolio of enterprise clients, serving as both their operational point of contact and a key contributor to how our team delivers value. This is a role for someone who brings real localization experience, thrives in a fast-paced, remote-first environment, and is energized by the challenge of balancing operational precision with strong client relationships. We are looking for a hire based on the US East Coast at this time.
You Will- Act as your clients' embedded localization operations expert, serving as the primary operational point of contact and trusted advisor for assigned accounts.
- Foster strong stakeholder relationships, navigate competing priorities, and coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure the successful execution and continuous improvement of clients' localization programs.
- Design and optimize localization processes within Smartling’s platform and client-preferred project management and content management tools, overseeing the end-to-end job lifecycle and tailoring configurations to each client’s unique requirements, including effective use of AI tooling where applicable.
- Solve problems both independently and collaboratively, bringing a solutions-first mindset to client challenges and internal roadblocks.
- Proactively drive operational excellence by identifying and implementing process improvements, documenting best practices, and leveraging automation and AI-enabled solutions to streamline workflows, enhance scalability, and improve team efficiency.
- At least 2-3 years of experience in localization or translation project management, ideally within a managed services or agency environment
- Solid understanding of localization file formats, content types, and CAT/TMS tooling
- Strong client management skills: comfortable leading calls, navigating difficult conversations, and representing the team externally
- Proficiency with project management and reporting tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Google Sheets, Looker, or equivalent)
- Experience coordinating with cross-functional teams across engineering, QA, and vendor management
- Excellent organizational and time management skills, with sharp attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities across time zones
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
Preferred but not required
- Hands-on experience with Smartling or other TMS platforms (such as Phrase, XTM, or MemoQ)
- Experience supporting enterprise or SaaS clients in an operational or customer-facing role.
- Fluency or working proficiency in a second language
- Interest in language, technology, or global content strategy
- Accountable. You take full ownership of your accounts, addressing issues promptly and documenting root causes and preventative actions for future improvement.
- Customer-Focused. You understand that client deadlines and requirements are real business commitments and consistently approach them with urgency, accountability, and care.
- Adaptable. You adjust effectively to changing scope, priorities, and unexpected client inputs without losing focus or execution quality.
- Communicative. You proactively stay ahead of client needs by sharing status updates, surfacing risks early, and contributing insights, guidance, and best practices.
- Process-Driven. You adhere to established processes while actively identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and consistency.
- Freedom 🏡 - we are remote-first
- Growth - an opportunity to learn and advance your career
- Wealth 💰 - we offer competitive salary and 401(k) + company match
- Wellness - health insurance; free medical plan for you and your family
- Balance - flexible PTO + 11 holidays; generous parental leave
- Culture 🤝 - an energetic, value-driven, and fun culture and team spirit
- Bonus - employee referral program and Apple equipment
Smartling is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive global team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, beliefs, skills, and experiences.
The United States total pay range for this role is $60-70,000. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors, including geographic location as well as candidate experience and expertise, and may vary from the amounts listed.
We use E-Verify platform for work authorization verifications.
*To work from home, you must have a strong internet connection, a quiet space, and a professional (distraction- and clutter-free) background.
Skills Required
- At least 2-3 years of experience in localization or translation project management
- Experience ideally within a managed services or agency environment
- Understanding of localization file formats and content types
- Experience with CAT or translation management system tooling
- Strong client management skills, including leading calls and handling difficult conversations
- Proficiency with project management and reporting tools such as Jira, Asana, Google Sheets, or Looker
- Experience coordinating cross-functional teams across engineering, QA, and vendor management
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Hands-on experience with Smartling or other TMS platforms such as Phrase, XTM, or MemoQ
- Experience supporting enterprise or SaaS clients in an operational or customer-facing role
- Fluency or working proficiency in a second language
- Interest in language, technology, or global content strategy
What the Team is Saying
Smartling Compensation & Benefits Highlights
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Affordable Benefits — Health coverage is highlighted with a “Free Medical Plan for you and your family,” alongside dental/vision and mental health programs, signaling low employee premium options. Public materials consistently present medical costs favorably, pending plan-specific details.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Materials point to flexible/unlimited PTO with paid holidays and sick leave, and practices intended to encourage actual time-off use. This breadth is complemented by a remote-friendly work model.
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Parental & Family Support — Generous maternity/paternity leave, fertility benefits, and a post‑parental return‑to‑work program are prominently featured. These offerings emphasize support through key family milestones.
Smartling Insights
What We Do
Smartling is an AI-native translation platform that's redefining how the world's biggest brands go global — ranked #3 on Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies list. We're growing rapidly at scale and are backed by Battery Ventures, a global technology-focused investment firm. While most companies are still figuring out how to use AI, we've spent years building it into the core of our platform — and we're just getting started.
Why Work With Us
One of our core values is to Take Care of Our People. Smartling is committed to each individual's professional and personal success. We offer convenient work-from-home option, health and well-being initiatives and career growth opportunities to give our employees the work-life balance needed to stay happy and productive!
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Smartling Offices
Remote Workspace
Employees work remotely.
Remote first.
