What are the responsibilities and job description for the Ocean Import Agent position at Expeditors?
Company Description
We take care of our employees, and they take care of our customers!
Become a member of a global community! The international logistics industry is an integral piece of the global trade puzzle; we make the world go round. Global supply chain management is what we do, and at the heart of Expeditors you will find professionalism, leadership, and a friendly environment, all of which foster an innovative, customer service-based approach to logistics. Expeditors is a global logistics company headquartered in Seattle, Washington. As a Fortune 500 company, we employ over 19,000 trained professionals in a worldwide network of over 350 locations across six continents. Expeditors satisfies the increasingly sophisticated needs of international trade through customized solutions and seamless, integrated information systems.
Our Mission
We recruit, train, and retain the very best logistics and technical experts the world over. We love to promote from within - more than 50 percent of our employees have been at Expeditors for five years or more. Our high retention rate is influenced by a unique compensation program for positions that are more than just jobs - they're chances to grow, do what you love and build a career with us!
Job Description
We are seeking a detail-oriented and efficient Ocean Import Agent to join our team in Kansas City, United States. As an Ocean Import Agent, you will play a crucial role in ensuring smooth and timely freight process flow for our international shipments.
- Coordinate with origin teams to make bookings for ocean freight shipments
- Manage deliveries with service providers and clients, ensuring timely and accurate execution
- Communicate effectively with carriers to resolve any import-related issues
- Collaborate with the customs team to ensure compliance with import regulations
- Review and verify commercial documents, including packing lists, invoices, and certificates
- Enter data accurately and promptly into our operational system
- Track and trace ocean import files, providing regular status updates and reports
- Ensure compliance with internal and external regulations, including government requirements
- Identify and implement best practices to improve operational efficiency and productivity
- Maintain and update customer standard operating procedures in the company database
- Respond promptly to emails and requests from both internal and external stakeholders
- Escalate problems to management when necessary, providing clear and concise information
- Deliver exceptional customer service, addressing client inquiries and concerns professionally
Qualifications
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in ocean freight import or related field
- Strong understanding of ocean documentation processes and procedures
- Knowledge of import regulations and customs procedures
- Familiarity with international shipping terms and practices
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients, carriers, and team members
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word
- High level of English proficiency, both written and verbal
- Detail-oriented with a strong focus on accuracy and efficiency
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
- Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to delivering exceptional service
- Hazardous Materials certification (preferred)
- Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or related field (preferred)
Additional Information
Expeditors offers excellent benefits:
- Paid Vacation, Holiday, Sick Time
- Health Plan: Medical
- Life Insurance
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- Training and Personnel Development Program
- Growth opportunities within the company
- Employee Referral Program Bonus
