Ocean Freight Operations Specialist

A growing international freight forwarding and logistics provider is seeking experienced Ocean Import Operators and Ocean Export Operators to join their expanding team in Downtown Chicago.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established global forwarder that continues to invest in its people, technology, and customer service offering. The successful candidates will be responsible for managing international ocean freight shipments from start to finish while providing exceptional service to customers, overseas offices, and carrier partners.

• Manage ocean import shipments from arrival through to final delivery.
• Coordinate with steamship lines, trucking companies, warehouses, customs brokers, and customers.
• Track and monitor shipments, ensuring milestones are achieved and customers are updated accordingly.
• Handle documentation including bills of lading, arrival notices, delivery orders, and freight invoices.
• Arrange customs clearance and inland transportation where required.
• Resolve shipment exceptions, delays, and customer inquiries in a timely manner.
• Ensure all files are completed accurately and in accordance with company procedures.

• Coordinate ocean export shipments from booking through departure.
• Liaise with customers, carriers, overseas offices, and transportation providers.
• Prepare and process export documentation including bills of lading, AES filings, shipping instructions, and export declarations.
• Arrange cargo collection, consolidation, and vessel bookings.
• Monitor shipment progress and provide proactive updates to customers.
• Ensure compliance with all export regulations and company procedures.
• Maintain accurate shipment records and operational data within the company system.

• Previous experience within ocean imports or ocean exports for a freight forwarder, NVOCC, or logistics provider.
• Strong understanding of international freight forwarding processes.
• Experience handling shipments from A-Z.
• Knowledge of ocean freight documentation and compliance requirements.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience using Cargo Wise or similar freight forwarding software is advantageous.

• Salary up to $65,000 depending on experience.
• Opportunity to join a growing global freight forwarder.
• Collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Career progression opportunities within an expanding organization.
• Modern Downtown Chicago office location.

If you are an experienced Ocean Import or Ocean Export professional looking for your next opportunity with a growing international logistics company, we would love to hear from you.