What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cargo Coordinator - Bowhead Transport position at UICGS / Bowhead Family of Companies?
Summary:
Bowhead Transport LLC is seeking a Freight / Cargo Coordinator based in Anchorage, AK, to oversee freight and track all cargo operations in support of our Seattle to all Alaska Terminals. This position is responsible for coordinating Alaska freight logistics, tracking company shipping equipment, coordinate receiving and documenting cargo, manifesting shipments, and securing/loading freight in alignment with the operational voyage schedule.
The ideal candidate is a highly organized, detail-oriented professional who can effectively manage a high-volume, fast-paced freight / cargo environment while maintaining clear communication with internal and external stakeholders. This role serves as a liaison between Alaska, the Seattle Terminal, and Bowhead Transport’s Cargo Operations team, ensuring seamless coordination and tracking, with adherence to safety and operational standards.
Responsibilities
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Maritime Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Maritime Studies, or a related field (preferred).
Physical & Environmental Demands
This role involves work in diverse environments, may including docks, ports, bays, beaches, waterways, offices, warehouses, construction zones, and outdoor settings (if traveling). Work hours may extend beyond a standard schedule, particularly during peak operational months (April–October).
Bowhead Transport LLC is the Northwest Marine division of UIC (Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation), one of Alaska’s largest and most diversified corporations. UIC has over 4,000 employees and 54 subsidiaries, spanning multiple industries across the U.S. and abroad. Bowhead Transport operates a diverse fleet of vessels, providing comprehensive marine logistics solutions throughout Alaska’s challenging environments.
We offer competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, 401(k), and paid time off for eligible full-time employees.
Bowhead Transport LLC is seeking a Freight / Cargo Coordinator based in Anchorage, AK, to oversee freight and track all cargo operations in support of our Seattle to all Alaska Terminals. This position is responsible for coordinating Alaska freight logistics, tracking company shipping equipment, coordinate receiving and documenting cargo, manifesting shipments, and securing/loading freight in alignment with the operational voyage schedule.
The ideal candidate is a highly organized, detail-oriented professional who can effectively manage a high-volume, fast-paced freight / cargo environment while maintaining clear communication with internal and external stakeholders. This role serves as a liaison between Alaska, the Seattle Terminal, and Bowhead Transport’s Cargo Operations team, ensuring seamless coordination and tracking, with adherence to safety and operational standards.
Responsibilities
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
- Ensure compliance with Bowhead Transport policies and standards, representing the company in a positive and professional manner.
- Maintain adherence to OSHA, city, state, and federal regulations governing cargo operations.
- Coordinate the receiving process for incoming cargo, ensuring all items are accurately logged, inspected for damage, stickered, and stored properly.
- Maintain detailed SmartSheet records for all cargo transactions, including weight, dimensions, and special handling requirements.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for customers, providing updates on cargo status, shipment schedules, and deliveries.
- Handle customer inquiries and complaints efficiently, ensuring timely resolution while maintaining strong customer relationships.
- Identify opportunities for process improvements to enhance customer service and cargo-handling operations.
- Communicate effectively with internal teams to ensure seamless coordination of cargo activities through SmartSheet.
- Prepare and maintain accurate records, including bills of lading, manifests, and inventory reports.
- Generate SmartSheet reports on cargo movements, operational performance, and challenges, providing insights for management decision-making.
- Conduct regular safety inspections of cargo handling processes, equipment, and storage areas, addressing potential hazards.
- Assist the Senior Cargo Operations Manager & Superintendents in developing barge operation plans to optimize efficiency and resource allocation.
- Support continuous improvement efforts through the company’s Quality Management System (QMS).
- Collaborate closely with Seattle’s Director, Sr. Terminal Manager, Seward, and Bethel warehouse staff, terminal teams, truck drivers, customers, and operations personnel.
- Foster a positive and collaborative work environment that promotes teamwork, open communication, and mutual respect.
- Manage procurement and leasing of shipping equipment such as flats, containers, rigging, and lashing materials as directed.
- Monitor cargo loading, unloading, and securing on land and vessels to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
- Coordinate with the Sr.Cargo Manager / Superintendents regarding tracking loading/offloading at the Seward terminal and other Alaska outports, working with sales and management to align schedules through the Bowhead SmartSheets tracking system.
- Provide regular operational updates to Bowhead Management via SmartSheet.
- Assist the Seattle Cargo Director with customer inquiries, loading/handling concerns, and operational updates.
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Maritime Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Maritime Studies, or a related field (preferred).
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in cargo operations, logistics, or maritime transportation, preferably in a barge company or related industry.
- Experience coordinating freight operations for remote Alaska coastal communities.
- Familiarity with OSHA, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, and local environmental laws governing maritime transportation.
- Proficiency in SmartSheet or similar cargo tracking and inventory management systems.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively liaise with internal teams, clients, and regulatory bodies.
- Knowledge of safety protocols and spill response in cargo handling.
- Willingness to travel to remote Alaska communities and adapt to challenging working conditions.
- Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to technical challenges.
- Valid driver’s license required.
- Anchorage, AK residency preferred.
Physical & Environmental Demands
This role involves work in diverse environments, may including docks, ports, bays, beaches, waterways, offices, warehouses, construction zones, and outdoor settings (if traveling). Work hours may extend beyond a standard schedule, particularly during peak operational months (April–October).
- Must be flexible with scheduling; many weeks may exceed 40 hours.
- Travel required to remote Alaska locations for extended periods.
- Frequent sitting, standing, walking, reaching, and lifting.
- Occasionally required to lift/move up to 75 pounds (with assistance as needed).
- Must be able to work under potentially hazardous conditions and unpredictable weather.
- 95% Office environment, 5% possibility of travel in Central/Western Alaska:
Bowhead Transport LLC is the Northwest Marine division of UIC (Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation), one of Alaska’s largest and most diversified corporations. UIC has over 4,000 employees and 54 subsidiaries, spanning multiple industries across the U.S. and abroad. Bowhead Transport operates a diverse fleet of vessels, providing comprehensive marine logistics solutions throughout Alaska’s challenging environments.
We offer competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, 401(k), and paid time off for eligible full-time employees.
