Ocean Import Operator

Ocean Freight Import Operator

Location: Birmingham
Salary: £28,000 – £30,000 per annum, depending on experience
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm
Holiday: 20 days annual leave + bank holidays

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Ocean Freight Import Operator to join a growing logistics business based in Birmingham.

This is a varied role for someone who understands the full import process and enjoys taking ownership of shipments from start to finish. Alongside the operational side, you’ll have a strong focus on customer service, cost control and commercial performance.

The Role

You will be responsible for managing ocean import shipments from arrival through to final delivery, working closely with customers, overseas agents, shipping lines, hauliers and other logistics partners.

The role will include:

Managing end-to-end ocean import shipments, including FCL and LCL

Liaising with overseas agents regarding pre-alerts, documentation and shipment updates

Coordinating customs clearance, delivery and final-mile logistics

Working closely with shipping lines, hauliers and warehouses

Managing delays, issues and service disruptions proactively

Maintaining accurate shipment records and job costing

Checking supplier invoices and ensuring agreed buy rates are maintained

Raising accurate customer invoices and monitoring margins

Challenging supplier costs where appropriate

Identifying opportunities to add value and upsell additional services

Acting as a key point of contact for customers

Providing regular and proactive communication throughout the shipment process

Building strong customer relationships and supporting client retention

Resolving queries and issues in a professional and solutions-focused way

Ensuring compliance with UK import and customs requirements

Managing shipping documentation including bills of lading, invoices and declarations

About You

To be considered for this position, you will need:

A minimum of 3 years' experience in Ocean Freight Import operations

Strong understanding of both FCL and LCL processes

Experience managing shipments from start to finish

Good knowledge of shipping documentation and import procedures

Strong commercial awareness, particularly around costs and margins

Good IT and system skills

Excellent attention to detail

The ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities in a busy environment

Knowledge of customs clearance and CS import procedures would be advantageous but is not essential.

What’s On Offer

Salary of £28,000 – £30,000, depending on experience

Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm

30-minute lunch break

20 days annual leave + bank holidays

Opportunity to join a growing logistics business

Varied role combining operational, commercial and customer-facing responsibilities

If you’re an experienced Ocean Import Operator looking for your next opportunity in Birmingham, we’d love to hear from you.

Please note that only candidates with a minimum of 3 years’ Ocean Import experience will be considered

This is a summary of a vacancy from the advertiser. Read the full job description and apply →