Ocean Transportation Manager

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United States.

📋 Description

• Assume responsibility for ocean transportation processes beginning with customer award and continuing through shipment execution and final delivery.

• Organize FCL, LCL, breakbulk, out-of-gauge, and specialized ocean cargo shipments.

• Facilitate ocean freight bookings and manage vessel schedules, cargo readiness, and shipping deadlines.

• Monitor ocean shipments while proactively resolving delays, documentation issues, and operational challenges.

• Collaborate with ocean carriers, freight agents, terminals, customs brokers, and other transportation partners.

• Ensure all transportation activities adhere to relevant shipping regulations and company protocols.

• Receive, assess, and coordinate ocean shipping documentation.

• Follow up with Project Managers when documentation or shipment information is lacking.

• Prepare, review, and coordinate bills of lading, shipping instructions, packing lists, and other essential documents.

• Track documentation deadlines, vessel cutoffs, and shipment milestones.

• Maintain precise records and shipment details within company operating systems.

• Identify opportunities to enhance documentation workflows and operational processes.

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers to ensure ocean transportation requirements are met throughout each project.

• Offer ocean freight expertise and operational guidance to internal teams.

• Coordinate shipment timelines and communicate any changes that impact project execution.

• Assist with other freight forwarding tasks as needed.

• Maintain proactive communication with Operations, Sourcing, and other departments.

• Obtain and evaluate ocean freight rates, carrier quotations, and transportation-related costs.

• Monitor shipment expenses and identify potential financial risks.

• Address possible demurrage, detention, storage, and other avoidable transportation costs.

• Inform Project Managers and leadership about shipment delays, missed deadlines, and potential cost implications.

• Assist in resolving discrepancies in carrier invoices and transportation-related billing issues.

• Ensure timely communication with internal stakeholders, carriers, vendors, and customers.

• Provide accurate updates regarding vessel schedules, shipment progress, and documentation needs.

• Respond promptly to operational requests and shipping-related inquiries.

• Exhibit ownership, accountability, and effective problem-solving throughout the shipment process.

⛳️ Requirements

• At least 5 years of experience in international ocean freight forwarding or ocean transportation operations.

• Strong comprehension of ocean freight booking procedures, documentation, and shipping requirements.

• Experience in coordinating ocean import and/or export shipments.

• Familiarity with vessel schedules, port operations, and international shipping deadlines.

• Experience collaborating with ocean carriers, freight agents, and Project Managers.

• Ability to independently manage multiple shipments and competing deadlines.

• Excellent attention to detail and organizational capabilities.

• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and freight forwarding or transportation management systems.

• Capability to work independently in a remote setting.

• Preferred: Experience with project cargo, breakbulk, heavy-lift, or oversized shipments.

• Preferred: Experience with CargoWise or similar freight forwarding software.

• Preferred: Knowledge of Incoterms and international trade documentation.

• Preferred: Experience coordinating customs clearance and engaging with international freight agents.

• Preferred: Familiarity with freight cost management and negotiating carrier rates.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.

• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options.

• A supportive and collaborative team environment.