Import & Export Operations Specialist

North Star Container, LLC is looking to expand our operational staff to accommodate additional growth. The Import & Export Operations Specialist manages the end-to-end execution of international cargo movements. This role is responsible for coordinating with global agents, ocean carriers, airlines, and domestic trucking companies to ensure freight moves seamlessly from origin to destination. The ideal candidate balances exceptional customer service with a sharp eye for customs compliance, document accuracy, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities Shipment Coordination & Booking:

Manage the daily lifecycle of inbound and outbound shipments across ocean (FCL/LCL), air, and domestic freight modes. Secure carrier bookings, optimize routings, and coordinate first/last-mile drayage and trucking.

Documentation Mastery:

Prepare, review, and distribute critical international shipping documents, including Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Bills of Lading (HBL/MBL), Air Waybills (HAWB/MAWB), and Arrival Notices.

Customs & Compliance Guarding:

Ensure all shipments comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, international trade laws, and Partner Government Agencies (PGAs). Verify Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes and coordinate with customs brokers for timely clearance.

Financial Management:

Issue accurate and timely client billing/invoicing. Review and approve vendor invoices (co-loaders, ocean lines, truckers) to safeguard profit margins and resolve billing discrepancies.

Milestone Tracking & Communication:

Proactively track shipments using Freight Management Systems (FMS) and carrier portals. Provide clear, real-time milestone updates to clients and troubleshoot delays (port congestion, customs holds, blank sailings). Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Metric Target Performance Data Accuracy Zero document errors leading to customs delays or storage fees (demurrage/detention). Response Time Client inquiries and quote requests answered within the fastest possible window. Billing Timeliness Invoices issued to clients within 5 business days of shipment departure/arrival. Margin Maintenance Ensure file profitability aligns with estimated quotes by auditing vendor costs. Qualifications & Skills Experience 2-5 years of hands-on experience within an international freight forwarding environment. Experience handling both import and export files is highly preferred. Technical Proficiency Experience navigating modern Freight Management Systems (e.g., CargoWise, Descartes , or similar enterprise logistics software). Strong data skills utilizing Microsoft Excel for tracking logs and split-shipment metrics. Logistics Knowledge Solid understanding of Incoterms 2020 , ocean container specifications, volumetric weight calculations (CBM vs. dimensional weight), and domestic inland routing. Soft Skills Exceptional problem-solving skills under tight deadlines. Clear, professional communication style. Ability to manage high-volume, multi-task workflows smoothly without dropping the ball.

Pay:

From $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Employee discount Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Education:

Associate (Required) Ability to

Commute:

Minneapolis, MN 55439 (Required)

Work Location:

In person