Senior International Transportation Planner

Overview

Stepan Company is seeking a Senior International Transportation Planner to join its Logistics team at the Northbrook, IL location. This role involves comprehensive planning, coordinating, and scheduling of air and ocean shipments for both internal stakeholders and external customers. The goal is to meet company goals, customer expectations, and customs regulations while optimizing service quality and controlling costs.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end export/import processes for global shipments by working closely with freight forwarders, carriers, and customs brokers to enhance delivery routes and minimize total landed expenses.
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of international freight methods (including full container load and ISO bulk), customs brokerage, import/export protocols, and applicable trade regulations.
• Prepare, examine, and validate international shipping documents such as commercial invoices, bills of lading, and certificates of origin; conduct audits on freight invoices and duties to ensure accuracy.
• Manage vendor relationships and evaluate freight carrier performance using key performance indicators.
• Analyze freight costs and monitor KPIs to spot cost reduction opportunities and improve supply chain efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with manufacturing operations and demand planners to devise optimal transportation plans supporting customers and business requirements.
• Coordinate with trade compliance and regulatory teams as well as customs brokerage to ensure adherence to regulations.
• Drive improvements in carrier on-time pick-up and delivery rates and maintain compliance across North America, including Canada and Mexico.
• Engage actively in trade compliance improvement projects with cross-functional teams such as IT, Regulatory, and Procurement.
• Track and assess supply chain metrics to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for ongoing enhancement.

Qualifications and Skills

• Proven ability to prioritize multiple tasks effectively and manage time efficiently.
• Comprehensive understanding of ocean and drayage carrier operations.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• High attention to detail combined with creative problem-solving capabilities.

Education and Certification

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Possession of Hazmat General Awareness Training Certificate is required.
• Experience in the chemical industry, specifically with hazardous materials, is preferred.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this role ranges from $58,000 to $76,000 annually, determined by skills, experience, qualifications, and the position’s location.

• Comprehensive benefits package including discretionary bonuses, medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match and profit sharing.
• Paid time off, short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Flexible spending accounts for dependent care and health savings opportunities.
• Paid parental leave and adoption assistance.
• Employee assistance and recognition programs.

Additional Information

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. Stepan Company does not sponsor or transfer work visas for this position.

Stepan Company is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity in employment. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics. The company emphasizes its stable growth, collaborative culture, commitment to safety and sustainability, and values-driven environment. The position is located in Northbrook, IL.