Ocean Import Specialist

Transgroup Express•Elizabeth, NJ

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Scan Global Logistics is seeking a proactive Ocean Import Specialist to oversee end-to-end ocean import operations. The role manages freight forwarding from shipment documentation through coordination with internal teams and customer service, ensuring accurate, timely cargo and information movement in accordance with company procedures and industry standards. This full-time, direct-hire, on-site position is based in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The position is suited to candidates with freight forwarding experience who want to advance in international logistics and gain hands-on experience across ocean import operations. The specialist handles shipment bookings and documentation, regulatory and customs requirements, shipment milestones, pickup and delivery arrangements, customer communications, vendor and carrier relationships, billing, and operational compliance. The role also supports continuous improvement of department workflows and escalates problems to management when necessary.

Requirements

At least 2 years of ocean import experience; this is required.
Experience with freight forwarding ocean operations processes and procedures.
Experience with bonded freight and cargo.
Previous experience with CargoWise is required.
Customer-service orientation.
Attention to detail.
Problem-solving attitude.
Active listening skills.
Telephone etiquette.
Basic Microsoft Office and Microsoft Excel skills.
Basic computer skills.
Must be eligible to work in the United States.
Must pass TSA eligibility screening.
Able to sit for prolonged periods while working at a desk and computer.
Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.

Responsibilities

Enter and manage international ocean import tracking documentation from origin to destination.
Ensure regulatory requirements are met and shipment paperwork, including transit documents and customs clearances, is accurate.
Process, distribute, and discharge documentation promptly to carriers, forwarders, customers, and agents.
Enter shipment data and confirm key milestones, including departure, arrival, customs clearance, and proof of delivery, in accordance with customer standard operating procedures.
Provide polite, timely, and efficient customer service and keep customers informed about import transactions.
Maintain accurate costs and profits by completing customer billing based on agreed pricing; create customer invoices and approve payables.
Ensure shipments are picked up and transferred using the appropriate partners.
Develop procedures for transporting commodities from local or offshore locations to warehouses, storage offices, or consignee locations for nominated shippers.
Negotiate shipping costs to remain competitive.
Prepare customs declarations and bonds.
Develop and manage relationships with local suppliers and co-load carriers, including agents, forwarders, customs brokers, pickup and delivery firms, trucking companies, and line-haul providers.
Maintain procedures to support a clean, organized, safe, and healthy work environment.
Take booking requests, ensure bookings use current and accurate rates, and consolidate and route shipments according to local office procedures.
Arrange container pickup and return to the railyard.
Coordinate daily shipments, including documentation, monitoring, pickup arrangements, dispatching, carrier communications, and invoicing.
Monitor and manage shipments through completion.
Communicate with vendors, shippers, customers, carriers, overseas agents, forwarders, customs brokers, and pickup and delivery companies.
Respond to emails and rate requests promptly and assist local sales efforts.
Review standard operating procedures for compliance with applicable requirements and standards, including FMC, Quality Assurance Standards, TAPA, IMDG, ISO, and Customs requirements.
Apply knowledge of ocean import processes, EEI, and NVOCC and non-NVOCC operations.
Understand department workflows and identify best practices to improve operational efficiency and productivity.
Complete inbound moves, including in-bonds (ITs) and permits to transfer.
Escalate problems to management when necessary.
Perform other duties assigned by the Department Manager.