Ocean Import Specialist

Job Title: Ocean Import Specialist

Location: Chicago, IL (Onsite – 5 Days per Week Required)

Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

A global freight forwarding organization is seeking an experienced Ocean Import Specialist to manage import operations. This role is responsible for full-cycle ocean import execution, ensuring accurate documentation, regulatory compliance, and seamless coordination with overseas agents, carriers, customs brokers, and clients.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly organized, and capable of managing multiple shipments simultaneously while maintaining high service standards for time-sensitive and high-value cargo.

This position requires in-office presence five days per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end ocean import shipments

• Coordinate bookings, shipment tracking, arrival notices, and final delivery scheduling

• Prepare and review documentation including bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and ISF filings

• Communicate daily with overseas agents, steamship lines, trucking providers, and customs brokers

• Ensure compliance with U.S. import regulations and customs clearance requirements

• Monitor shipment milestones and proactively resolve delays, documentation discrepancies, and exceptions

• Provide consistent shipment updates and maintain strong customer communication

• Coordinate drayage, warehousing, and final-mile delivery as required

• Maintain accurate shipment records and update all activity within the operating system

• Support continuous improvement of operational processes and service quality

Requirements

• 3 to 7 plus years of ocean import experience within freight forwarding or international logistics

• Strong knowledge of transatlantic import processes and documentation

• Solid understanding of U.S. customs clearance procedures and ISF requirements

• Ability to manage multiple shipments in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment

• Strong attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving skills

• Effective communication skills with internal teams and external partners

• Experience using CargoWise or similar freight forwarding software preferred

• Must be able to work onsite five days per week

Preferred Experience

• Familiarity with major U.S. ports and inland transportation coordination

• Experience managing high-volume accounts or time-sensitive cargo

• Spanish and English bilingual skills preferred but not required