Ocean Import Operation

Position: Ocean Import Operation

Location: Torrance, CA

Industry: Logistics / Freight Forwarding

Employment Type: Full-time

Salary: $50-55K (DOE)

Position Summary

Our client, a Japanese logistics company is seeking an experienced Ocean Import Operation staff. This role is responsible for handling end-to-end ocean import operations, including coordination with carriers, brokers, truckers, and internal teams. The ideal candidate has strong import operations experience, excellent customer service skills, and is comfortable working in a fast-paced logistics environment.

Key Responsibilities

Import Operations & Coordination

• Process international ocean and air import shipments, including documentation preparation and shipment coordination
• Track, trace, and provide shipment status updates to customers and internal teams
• Coordinate with carriers, steamship lines, co-loaders, overseas agents, brokers, truckers, rail yards, and CFS
• Proactively notify customers of delays, delivery issues, and additional charges
• Review Standard Operating Procedures to ensure compliance

Systems & Data Management

• Input duty amounts, Pier Pass fees, freight rates, and ISO information into Cargo Wise
• Track ISFs, verify arrival information, and open entries as needed
• Pay Pier Pass fees via TMF website
• Monitor and review PODs and exception reports

Billing, Accounting & Documentation Support

• Prepare files for billing and ensure accurate documentation
• Create client billing and support accounting processes in a timely and accurate manner
• Coordinate with Accounting on ACH payments, CBP payments, and surety billings
• Collect OBLs and charges from importers/brokers and submit promptly to Accounting

Customer Service & Office Support

• Respond to customer inquiries by phone and email quickly and professionally
• Receive visitors, messengers, and trucking company runners at the front desk
• Assist with check requests and overnight delivery to steamship lines and vendors
• Support KPI monitoring and profit improvement initiatives (cargo insurance, service markups, etc.)

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of experience in ocean import operations (Break Bulk experience preferred)
• Knowledge of U.S. import procedures, documentation, ISF, and CBP requirements
• Experience with CargoWise strongly preferred
• Strong customer service, communication, and organizational skills
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)