Import Operations Agent - Houston

As an Import Operations Agent, you will be responsible for managing the efficient transportation and logistics of imported goods, ensuring compliance with international trade regulations, and providing exceptional customer service. Your role involves coordinating shipments, processing necessary documentation, and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure timely delivery and resolution of any issues. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

- Client Communication: Effectively communicate with clients, suppliers, and carriers to ensure the smooth and timely delivery of goods.

- Attention to Detail: Maintain a high level of attention to detail to ensure accuracy in all tasks.

- Transportation Arrangement: Arrange transportation and import logistics services, including trucking, clearance, and payment arrangements, tailored to the specific needs of each shipment.

- Modes of Transport: Modes of transport include Full Container Load (FCL), Less than Container Load (LCL), and air freight.

- Document Management: Manage, forward, and process documents for customs clearance and trucking obtained via pre-alerts (BLs, AWBs, Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, etc).

- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with international trade regulations and customs requirements.

- Shipment Tracking: Track and monitor shipments to ensure on-time delivery and proactively resolve any issues or delays that may arise.

- Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer service by promptly addressing inquiries or concerns from clients and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, both external and internal.

- Team Collaboration: Collaborate with other members of the logistics team to streamline operations and improve overall supply chain performance.

- Billing and KPIs: Process shipments for timely and accurate billing to remain within customer and company Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

- Accounting: Ensure accurate accounting on all operation files for the import desk.

Required Skills

- Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with clients, suppliers, and carriers.

- Organization: Strong organizational and multitasking abilities to manage multiple shipments and deadlines simultaneously.

- Detail-Oriented: Attention to detail to ensure accurate documentation and compliance with customs regulations.

- Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills to handle unexpected issues or delays in the shipment process.

- Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in logistics software and systems to track shipments and generate necessary documentation, or the ability to learn these systems quickly.

- Pressure Management: Ability to work well under pressure in fast-paced environments.

- Time Management: Excellent time management skills to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

- Teamwork: Ability to work independently as well as part of a team to achieve common goals.

Required Qualifications

- Education: High school diploma or equivalent. A degree in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field is preferred.

- Experience: Previous experience in freight forwarding or logistics is highly desirable.

- Documentation Knowledge: Knowledge of international shipping documentation and customs clearance procedures is preferred.

- Regulatory Familiarity: Familiarity with shipping regulations and compliance requirements is preferred.

- Computer Skills: Proficiency in computer systems and software used in logistics operations is preferred.

- Language Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

- Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

- Fast-Paced Environment: Ability to handle a fast-paced work environment and work with tight deadlines.

- Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

- Team Collaboration: Ability to work in a team and collaborate effectively with colleagues and stakeholders.

- Geography: General geographical knowledge.

What We Offer

Compensation commensurate with 8-10 years of experience in logistics sales as well as 100% employer paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees. Additional benefits include a robust 401K, generous paid time off and values-driven, international culture.

Ready to take the next step in your career, apply now.

As we review applications, we plan to invite qualified candidates for interviews while the posting may still be active.

So if the position has piqued your interest, we recommend that you don't hesitate to send in your application.

For this role, visa sponsorship is not available. Applicants must have work authorization in the United Sates.

What We Do – Together We Create Solutions

Blue Water Shipping is a global provider of all logistic services in modern supply chain management. Founded in Denmark in 1972, Blue Water is a global organization of professionals, skilled to offer complete and tailor-made solutions to any shipping requirement anywhere in the world. We offer clients the best service and highest quality in the industry.

The company is represented with more than 70 offices in 30 countries worldwide combining strong global network with local expertise. Every day our 2000 employees and 6 distinct business units