Import Specialist

JAS•Charleston, SC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Import Specialist processes and handles air and ocean import shipments for customers, ensuring high-quality service and solutions that meet or exceed customer requirements. The role may oversee the Customs House Brokerage (CHB) process and help ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and JAS Forwarding operating procedures. It may also be responsible for completing customs broker transactions and other government-agency requirements on time. The position handles shipment documentation and tracking, customer updates, delivery dispatch, proof of delivery, billing, job costing, and coordination with vendors and overseas offices. It also provides customer service, supports quoting, monitors customer performance, promotes compliance, and may serve as a cross-trained backup for team members. The role is performed entirely in a climate-controlled office environment under normal office conditions.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience handling air and/or ocean imports, or a combination of education and expertise.
Knowledge of U.S. customs laws, practices, and procedures.
Good working knowledge of Incoterms.
Excellent organizational and communication skills.
Flexibility.
Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite.
Attention to detail and the ability to multitask and meet deadlines.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

Experience and knowledge regarding imports, compliance, rules, and regulations.
Experience working in CargoWise (C1).
Knowledge of Importer Security Filing (ISF).
A high school diploma.

Responsibilities

Prepare, review, and process shipment documents, ensuring files are complete, accurate, and properly sequenced.
Receive and track customer bookings and shipments; update clients about shipment status and delays; dispatch shipments for delivery; collect proof of delivery; and cost and invoice files.
Comply with company business-process guidelines.
Bill or invoice each file to the appropriate customer, paying attention to the responsible party's payment terms.
Resolve and reconcile incorrect payables in coordination with vendors and overseas offices.
Assist sales, department managers, and colleagues with compiling quotes.
Prepare accurate job-costing forecasts and ensure payables, receivables, and accruals are set and managed according to company rules and guidelines.
Provide responsive customer service and ensure timely correspondence with customers.
Dispatch freight for delivery and maintain communication with the trucker throughout delivery.
Recognize changes in customer shipping trends and report them to management.
Cross-train and act as a backup for team members when necessary.
Report on customer performance and identify changes in support needs.
Promote compliance across the department or section.
Work through problems and recognize issues that should be communicated or escalated to management.
Perform other duties as requested and additional or different responsibilities as business needs change.
Follow company HR policies, the Code of Business Conduct, and department policies and procedures, including protecting confidential information, attending work punctually and regularly, and following safety practices.