Ocean Import Specialist

Altius Talent | Freight Forwarding Recruitment; New York (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Growth opportunities

Collaborative team in Queens

Competitive salary

Job summary

Altius Talent, partnering with an established international freight forwarder, seeks an Ocean Import Specialist in Queens, NY. You will manage day-to-day inbound ocean freight from origin to delivery and serve as the main contact for customers, overseas agents, carriers, and customs brokers.

Ideal candidates are organized and proactive, able to handle multiple shipments in a fast-paced environment, with 1–3 years of ocean import experience and familiarity with CargoWise, ISF, B/Ls, Incoterms,

Qualifications

• 1–3 years in ocean import operations or freight forwarding.
• Knowledge of FCL/LCL, bills of lading, Incoterms, and import documentation.
• Familiarity with ISF requirements and the customs clearance process.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of ocean import shipments (FCL and LCL) from booking confirmation through delivery.
• Track vessels and containers, monitor ETAs, and communicate delays or schedule changes to customers and internal teams.
• Coordinate with overseas agents, steamship lines, NVOCCs, terminals and drayage carriers.
• Review and process bills of lading, arrival notices, invoices, and packing lists for accuracy.
• Prepare and issue arrival notices, delivery orders, and release documentation.
• Work with customs brokerage to ensure timely entries and ISF filings.
• Monitor demurrage, detention, and per diem, and minimize charges.
• Arrange pickups/deliveries including transloading and warehousing as needed.
• Resolve holds and clearance issues with brokers and government agencies.
• Prepare quotes and verify vendor charges; maintain shipment records in CargoWise.

Skills

Ocean import operations

ISF knowledge

CargoWise experience

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Excel

Tools

CargoWise

ISF documentation tools

Job description

Location & Job Type: Queens, NY | Full-Time

Company Overview

Altius Talent is partnering with an established international freight forwarder providing ocean, air, and customs brokerage services to importers and exporters across a range of industries. The company is known for its responsive service, strong carrier relationships, and a team-oriented culture.

Position Overview

The Ocean Import Specialist will manage the day-to-day coordination of inbound ocean freight from origin through final delivery. This role serves as a key point of contact for customers, overseas agents, carriers, truckers, and customs brokers, ensuring shipments move smoothly and on schedule. The ideal candidate is organized, proactive, and comfortable managing multiple shipments in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of ocean import shipments (FCL and LCL), from booking confirmation through delivery
• Track vessels and containers, monitor ETAs, and proactively communicate delays, rollovers, and schedule changes to customers and internal teams
• Coordinate with overseas agents, steamship lines, NVOCCs, terminals, and drayage carriers
• Review and process bills of lading, arrival notices, commercial invoices, and packing lists for accuracy
• Prepare and issue arrival notices, delivery orders, and release documentation
• Work with the customs brokerage team to ensure entries and ISF filings are submitted on time
• Monitor and manage demurrage, detention, and per diem exposure, working with customers and carriers to minimize charges
• Arrange pickup and delivery appointments, including transloading, warehousing, and chassis needs as required
• Resolve holds, exams, and other clearance issues in coordination with brokers and government agencies
• Prepare quotes and invoices, and verify vendor charges for accuracy
• Maintain shipment records and update the forwarding system (CargoWise or comparable) in real time
• Provide excellent customer service, responding promptly to inquiries and status requests

Key Skills & Qualifications

• 1-3 years of experience in ocean import operations or freight forwarding
• Working knowledge of FCL/LCL processes, bills of lading, Incoterms, and import documentation
• Familiarity with ISF requirements and the customs clearance process
• Understanding of demurrage, detention, and free time management
• Experience with CargoWise or a similar freight forwarding system is a plus
• Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritize competing deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook
• Knowledge of the New York/New Jersey port complex is a plus

What's on Offer

• Base salary of $60,000-$70,000, depending on experience
• Stable company with a strong industry reputation
• Opportunities for growth and professional development
• Collaborative team environment in the Queens area