Freight Forwarding Agent

Freight Forwarding Specialist /

Administrative Assistant Southport Agencies Location:

Metairie, Louisiana, USA Salary:

Salary:

$43,000 - $48,000, with opportunity for higher compensation based on experience Join a Team Where "We Figure It Out." At Southport Agencies, we don't just fill roles; we build a team of driven professionals navigating the complexities of global trade with efficiency and heart. If you want to be part of a culture that prioritizes:

Support & Passion:

We bring positive, team-oriented energy to the workplace every day

Observation & Resourcefulness:

Our mindset is simple — we figure it out!

Trust & Integrity:

We operate at a high standard and take pride in doing things the right way About the Role We are looking for a highly organized, detail-driven individual to join our team in an entry-level Freight Forwarding role. This position is ideal for someone who takes pride in accuracy, enjoys working with systems and documents, and brings a positive, professional attitude to daily interactions. You will play a key role in coordinating shipment documentation, supporting operations, and ensuring information is accurate and completed on time. What You'll Do Freight Forwarding & Documentation Receive shipment instructions and enter details into internal systems Prepare, review, and issue shipping documents (Bills of Lading, Certificates of Origin, FGIS certificates, Phytosanitary certificates, etc.) Coordinate document drafts and timelines with customers and internal teams Track vessel status and document progress through completion Revise and finalize documents, ensuring accuracy and compliance Learn port-specific requirements and industry regulations Work with customers to ensure documents are accurate, compliant, and completed on time Data & Systems Maintain accurate data in spreadsheets and internal platforms Organize and manage digital shipment files Format and maintain clean, professional Excel documents Convert, edit, and combine files using Adobe Acrobat Communication & Coordination Provide timely updates to internal teams and customers Flag delays or discrepancies and help resolve issues Work with vendors and service providers as needed Administrative Support Assist the operations team with day-to-day tasks Support office needs including paperwork, supply orders, and basic technical tasks Upload and manage documents on company platforms Prepare reports for internal and external use Maintain and update the company LinkedIn page What We're Looking For Strong attention to detail — accuracy is critical in this role Positive, outgoing, and professional attitude in all interactions Comfortable communicating with customers, vendors, and team members Basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel (data entry, formatting, sorting/filtering) Experience with Adobe Acrobat or willingness to learn Organized, reliable, and able to manage multiple tasks Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills Why Join Southport 100% employer-paid health insurance Optional dental, vision, and life/disability coverage Paid vacation 401(k) with competitive employer match Opportunity to learn the freight forwarding and maritime industry from the ground up Clear path for growth within operations What Success Looks Like Accurate, timely data entry and documentation Organized and audit-ready shipment files Clear, professional, and proactive communication Ability to manage multiple priorities without sacrificing accuracy Who This Role Is For Someone who: Notices small details others miss Takes pride in getting things exactly right Communicates confidently and professionally Brings a positive, team-oriented attitude to the workplace Wants to build a long-term career, not just have a job

Pay:

$43,000.00 - $48,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person