Import/Export Specialist

Lynden Logistics is seeking an Import/Export Specialist to support our International Operations team at our Chicagoland office. In this safety-sensitive role, you'll manage the full cycle of international freight shipments, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant global freight movement.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate international air import, air export, and ocean import shipments from booking through final delivery.
• Prepare quotes for customers, agents, and internal partners.
• Determine shipment routing and transportation solutions based on customer timelines and economic requirements.
• Process shipping documentation and complete shipment entries across multiple operating systems.
• Track shipments and provide timely updates to customers, carriers, and international agents.
• Build and maintain relationships with customers, carriers, vendors, and overseas partners.
• Ensure compliance with import/export regulations, including AES filings, Importer Security Filings, and customs documentation requirements.
• Review shipment profitability, secure spot quotes, and support accurate customer invoicing.
• Troubleshoot shipment delays and collaborate with government agencies, customs authorities, and service providers to resolve issues.

Requirements

• Minimum of two years of international freight forwarding experience.
• Experience handling international air imports, air exports, and ocean import freight shipments.
• Ability to calculate freight rates, percentages, discounts, and other shipment-related costs.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TSA Security Threat Assessment (STA) or TSA-recognized equivalent credential.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug test (including marijuana) and background screening.

Skills

• Strong knowledge of international freight forwarding and full-cycle shipment management.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build relationships with customers, carriers, vendors, and overseas agents.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple shipments and competing priorities simultaneously.
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills, including proficiency with Outlook, Teams, and other business applications.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a sense of urgency when resolving shipment issues.
• Ability to learn and navigate multiple operational systems and technology platforms.
• Working knowledge of international shipping documentation, routing, and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications (Preferred)

• Ocean export knowledge.
• Familiarity with inland transportation coordination.
• IATA Dangerous Goods and/or IMDG certification.
• Background working in a smaller freight forwarding environment where you've managed shipments from quote to invoice.

Benefits

• Discretionary Bonus Program – Additional bonuses based on job and company performance.
• Healthcare – Medical, dental, and vision plans with employee contributions as low as $5 for you and your family.
• Paid Time Off – 17 days paid time off, increasing with years of service.
• Holidays – 8 paid holidays.
• Retirement Plan – 401(k) with up to 50% match of the first 6% contributed.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program – Up to 50% of educational expenses reimbursed after 1 year of service.
• Extras – Life Insurance, Health and Wellness Program, Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance, Long Term Disability Coverage, and Employee Assistance Program at no cost.

Pay

$28–$32 per hour.

Schedule

Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM.