Ocean Freight Manager

Transgroup Express•Elizabeth, NJ

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Scan Global Logistics is seeking an experienced, results-driven Ocean Freight Manager to oversee Aid, Relief & Government (ARG) international ocean import and export operations. This direct-hire, full-time, on-site position is based in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The manager oversees daily ocean freight activities, leads the operational team, ensures regulatory compliance, maintains customer and carrier relationships, and drives operational efficiency in a fast-paced environment. The role includes managing shipments from origin through final delivery; leading and developing staff; handling operational escalations; reviewing shipping documents; negotiating rates and vendor agreements; monitoring performance and shipment visibility; and collaborating with sales, business development, and internal departments. The manager also supports customer retention, enforces company and customer procedures, and oversees complex project cargo shipments. The position requires eligibility to work in the United States and passing TSA eligibility screening.

Requirements

At least 5 years of ocean freight forwarding experience, preferably in ARG, NGO, or humanitarian logistics, covering import and export operations.
At least 2 years of supervisory or management experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or supply chain operations.
Working knowledge of ITAR compliance and U.S. export control requirements relevant to international freight forwarding.
Strong knowledge of ocean freight operations, international shipping practices, customs regulations, and trade compliance requirements.
Experience working with ocean carriers, NVOCCs, customs brokers, trucking providers, and overseas agents.
Demonstrated leadership, team development, and people-management skills.
Excellent communication, customer service, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, and freight forwarding or logistics management systems.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Must be eligible to work in the United States.
Must pass TSA eligibility screening.
Able to sit for prolonged periods and work at a computer; must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing project cargo, including complex, oversized, heavy-lift, or specialized cargo movements.
Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

Responsibilities

Manage and oversee ocean import and export operations, ensuring timely and accurate shipment execution from origin through final delivery.
Lead, mentor, train, and develop the Ocean Freight team, including providing performance feedback and ongoing support.
Serve as the primary escalation point for operational issues, customer concerns, and service challenges.
Ensure compliance with international trade regulations, U.S. Customs requirements, FMC regulations, export controls, ITAR requirements as applicable, and company policies.
Review and approve Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, certificates of origin, AES filings, and other import/export documentation.
Develop and maintain relationships with customers, ocean carriers, NVOCCs, customs brokers, trucking companies, warehouses, and overseas agents.
Negotiate carrier rates, service agreements, and vendor contracts to optimize service levels and profitability.
Monitor operational performance, shipment milestones, and KPIs.
Supervise shipment visibility using TMS, ERP systems, and freight tracking platforms.
Collaborate with Sales and Business Development to support customer growth, prepare logistics solutions, and identify cross-selling opportunities.
Manage workload distribution, staffing requirements, and operational priorities to maximize productivity and efficiency.
Analyze operational data, identify trends, and implement process improvements to improve service quality and reduce costs.
Ensure accurate and timely updates in transportation management systems and internal operational platforms.
Coordinate with customs brokerage, warehousing, transportation, accounting, and other internal departments to support seamless operations.
Maintain and enforce company SOPs and customer-specific requirements.
Support customer retention through exceptional service and proactive communication.
Promote compliance, accountability, safety, and continuous improvement within the department.
Oversee complex project cargo shipments, including specialized transportation planning, carrier coordination, documentation, and delivery requirements.