Ocean Import/Export Coordinator

Job Title: Ocean Import/Export Coordinator

Location: Toronto, Canada

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Senior Operations Manager

Job Summary

The Ocean Import/Export Coordinator is responsible for coordinating and managing the movement of ocean freight shipments from origin to destination, including both import and export operations. This role involves preparing documentation, liaising with carriers and agents, ensuring customs compliance, tracking shipments, resolving operational issues, and maintaining effective communication with internal teams and customers. The Coordinator must ensure compliance with applicable international trade regulations and Canadian/Ontario workplace standards.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage ocean import and export shipments to ensure timely pickup, transit, and delivery.
• Prepare, review, and verify ocean freight documentation including Bills of Lading (B/L), commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and other required documents.
• Communicate with carriers, NVOCCs, shipping lines, freight forwarders, and third-party logistics (3PL) providers to secure space, confirm bookings, and negotiate rates when required.
• Monitor shipment status and proactively communicate updates, delays, or exceptions to internal teams and customers.
• Collaborate with customs brokerage teams to ensure accurate customs filings and compliance with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) regulations.
• Respond promptly to customer inquiries and resolve operational issues to maintain a high level of service.

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure all import and export documentation complies with Canadian and international trade regulations, including CBSA, U.S. Customs requirements, Incoterms, and carrier regulations.
• Maintain accurate and organized shipment records in accordance with company policies and legal requirements.
• Support internal and external audits related to shipping, compliance, and record retention.

Systems & Reporting

• Enter and maintain shipment data accurately in the company's CargoWise (CW) system.
• Generate operational, exception, and performance reports as required.
• Track KPIs such as on-time delivery, detention/demurrage exposure, and customer satisfaction metrics.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with sales, customs, accounting, and warehouse teams to ensure smooth end-to-end operations.
• Support the training and development of junior operations staff as required.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Diploma, certificate, or degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, or a related field.
• Minimum 2–5 years of ocean freight coordination or forwarding experience, preferably with Canadian import/export exposure.
• Strong understanding of CBSA regulations, Incoterms, and international shipping documentation.

Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities with attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple shipments simultaneously.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Experience with CargoWise, GoFreight, or other freight forwarding systems is an asset.
• Customer-focused mindset with strong problem-solving skills.

Performance Expectations

• Accurate and timely coordination of shipments with minimal errors or exceptions.
• High responsiveness to customers and internal stakeholders.
• Full compliance with operational, documentation, and regulatory requirements.
• Contribution to continuous process improvement and service quality.

Working Conditions

• Office-based role with occasional work outside regular business hours during peak periods or operational disruptions.
• Regular interaction with carriers, warehouses, customs brokers, and third-party partners.

Additional Responsibilities

The employee may be required to perform other duties and responsibilities as reasonably assigned from time to time, consistent with the nature of the role and business needs.

Cross-Training

The employee may be required to cross-train and support other operational functions within the organization as needed to ensure service continuity and operational efficiency.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: CAD $45,000 – $70,000 (based on experience and skills)
• Benefits: RRSP program, health benefits, and quarterly performance bonus

Recruitment Notes:

• We are actively recruiting for this position.
• AI will not be used to shortlist candidates.

How to Apply

Please submit your updated CV and a cover letter outlining your experience with ocean import/export operations to:

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00-$60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Life insurance
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Work Location: In person