Ocean Import Supervisor

jas; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

JAS in Newark, NJ is seeking an Ocean Import Supervisor to oversee day-to-day ocean import operations. You will ensure accurate, timely handling of shipments in line with customer expectations and company SOPs.

This role supports the Import Manager and serves as a key liaison between operations and leadership to maintain process efficiency and high service standards.

Qualifications

• Excellent organizational and problem solving abilities.
• Clear written and spoken communication required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office; detail oriented and able to multitask.
• Self-motivated, able to work in a team and independently.
• Solid knowledge of customs laws and FDA/OGA transactions.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day ocean import operations, ensuring accurate and timely handling of shipments.
• Coordinate bookings, shipments, and customs documentation per SOPs and customer instructions.
• Notify customers of arrivals, charges, delays, and holds; advise on any necessary actions.
• Assist Import Manager and act as liaison between operations and leadership to maintain efficiency.
• Monitor and verify compliance, data quality, and job costing; prepare required reports and documentation.

Skills

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Written & verbal communication

MS Office proficiency

Teamwork & independence

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

JAS is an international, non-asset-based supply chain services and solutions company. Our services include air and ocean freight forwarding, contract logistics, customs brokerage, distribution, inbound logistics, truckload brokerage and other supply chain management services, including consulting, the coordination of purchase orders and customized management services.

The Ocean Import Supervisor is responsible for overseeing day-to-day ocean import operations, ensuring accurate and timely handling of shipments in accordance with company and customer expectations. This role supports the Import Manager in executing operational goals and is a key liaison between the operations team and leadership to help maintain process efficiency and high service standards.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Receive and track customer bookings/orders.
• Send shipping instructions overseas according to customer instructions or established SOP's.
• Notify customer of arrival and charges. This must apply to any delay notices and Customs/Exam holds. Applicable charges for any holds must also be advised to the necessary party concerned immediately after we receive our notification.
• Follow the guidelines specified by the company's business process team.
• Process Customs Entries, i.e. classify invoice, file RLF entries, enter electronic invoices.
• Own the process for FDA related entries.
• Review and prepare documentation with accuracy on every detail and aspect, not limited to but including Customs classification, I.T. number, commercial invoices, details, etc.
• Transmit information to ABI, verify results and make corrections if necessary, monitoring the release of customs and also any OGA as may apply (USDA, FCC, DOT... etc.).
• Check Customs release details and ensure any discrepancies are handled properly.
• Transmit payment of Customs duties as needed.
• Manage exceptions with involved parties and customer.
• Ensure that file contains all necessary document copies in proper sequence.
• Coordination of entry and break bulk shipments.
• Work with Sales on account implementation, ensuring a smooth transition from Sales to Operations.
• Answer all customer requests in accordance with our company standards and guidelines.
• Monitor closely any shipments moving on an I.T. and provide release, payment and delivery instructions within the allotted free time.
• Collect any COD monies owed before arranging delivery to the customer.
• Handle and manage all customer contact at file level regarding exceptions.
• Ensure highest level of data quality by processing the shipment accurately.
• Provide accurate job costing forecast - Ensure all payables, receivables and accruals are set and properly managed per company rules and guidelines.
• Work with vendors and overseas offices to dispute any incorrect payables at the earliest opportunity to maintain accurate accounting.
• Bill/Invoice each file to the respective customers paying close attention to payment terms for the responsible party.
• Assure that Original Bill of Lading requirements are met in a timely manner.
• Dispatch freight for delivery, maintaining communication with trucker throughout delivery.
• Confirm POD for each shipment and updating our system with POD information.
• Update Track and Trace proprietary applications.
• Assist Sales, Department Manager and Colleagues in compiling quotes by providing rates, tariffs, etc.
• Assure that file contains all necessary documents as set by company standards and filed promptly in appropriate location.
• Other duties as requested.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide input to the Import Manager for employee performance evaluations.
• Recommend employee hiring, terminations and promotions.
• Identify and resolve personnel issues.
• Provide ongoing coaching and mentoring of staff to develop skills to optimum levels.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Excellent organizational skills.
• Excellent problem solving skills.
• Effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Detail oriented, able to multitask and meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated, able to effectively work on a team and independently.
• Solid knowledge of all customs laws, practices and procedures.
• Good working knowledge of FDA & OGA transactions.
• Able to perform the essential duties of this position without posing a "direct threat" to the health or safety of self or others.
• Able to interact positively and effectively with co-workers, subordinates and managers.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High School diploma or GED.
• 4-6 years experience in ocean imports or combination of education and expertise.
• Experience and knowledge regarding import entry procedures, compliance, rules and regulations.
• FDA Expe