Air and Ocean Import Specialist

Overview

We are looking for a skilled Air and Ocean Import Specialist to join a dynamic international freight forwarding company in New York, NY. This role focuses on managing import shipments from the point of arrival through to final delivery, ensuring smooth operations and excellent customer communication without requiring constant supervision.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage coordination of air and ocean import shipments from pre-alert to final delivery stages.
• Review various import documents including pre-alerts, arrival notices, bills of lading, commercial invoices, and packing lists for accuracy and completeness.
• Collaborate efficiently with overseas agents, carriers, airlines, steamship lines, terminals, truckers, warehouses, customs brokers, and customers.
• Track shipments proactively and provide clients with timely updates.
• Arrange customs clearance processes in partnership with internal or external brokerage teams.
• Handle delivery orders, freight releases, terminal availability checks, truck dispatching, and last mile delivery coordination.
• Monitor critical import deadlines related to free time, storage, demurrage, detention, and other time-sensitive milestones.
• Address operational issues, shipment delays, document discrepancies, and client concerns promptly.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date shipment files ensuring correct billing.
• Deliver exceptional customer service while managing multiple import tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

• Proven experience in air and/or ocean import operations within freight forwarding or logistics sectors.
• In-depth understanding of import shipment workflows from arrival to delivery.
• Experience collaborating with airlines, steamship lines, terminals, warehouses, truckers, and customs brokers.
• Familiarity with customs clearance procedures and import documentation requirements.
• Capability to juggle multiple shipments, meet deadlines, and manage customer expectations effectively.
• Strong communication skills combined with a proactive problem-solving mindset.
• Attention to detail and ability to perform confidently under pressure.
• Proficient in freight forwarding software systems and Microsoft Office applications.

Benefits and Opportunities

• Competitive salary reflecting experience and skills.
• Chance to be part of an expanding international freight forwarder.
• Exposure to diverse air and ocean import processes with direct customer interaction.
• Supportive team environment offering growth and long-term career advancement.
• Opportunity to significantly contribute and influence business operations.