Freight Forwarder - Norfolk, VA

The Freight Forwarder is responsible for the accurate, timely preparation, filing, and dispatch of maritime commercial cargo documentation for import and export vessel calls across multiple commodity types. This role operates with a high degree of independence, manages end-to-end documentation workflows, and may serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for assigned customers.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Accurately prepare, review, and dispatch all required cargo documentation, including but not limited to bills of lading, manifests, certificates of origin, and related shipping documents in accordance with customer instruction.
• File AES, AMS, and other required regulatory submissions accurately and within required deadlines.
• Monitor vessel schedules and documentation deadlines to ensure compliance and on-time delivery.
• Maintain accurate and current vessel, cargo, and shipment information in internal systems and databases.
• Communicate with shippers, receivers, terminals, agents, and third-party vendors to obtain required shipment information and answer shipment inquiries.
• Serve as documentation Subject Matter Expert (SME) for assigned customers by maintaining customer profiles and job aids.
• Assist team members in preparing, reviewing, releasing, signing or dispatching cargo documents when workloads require or as assigned.
• Escalate commercial, regulatory, or service issues appropriately to management.
• Support audits, corrections, and post-shipment documentation updates as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education, Knowledge, Experience, Skills and Abilities Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education preferred.
• Prior experience in freight forwarding, maritime documentation, or logistics preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office software, specifically Excel, with minimum 60 wpm typing speed.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Independent judgment with appropriate escalation discipline.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit for extended periods of time, with occasional standing, walking, reaching, and bending.
• Occasional crouching or kneeling as required within the office environment.
• Ability to reach, handle, and use office equipment including computers, copiers, fax machines, printers, and mobile devices.
• Ability to regularly use hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling office materials.
• Ability to communicate effectively, including speaking and hearing.
• Ability to read and view information on a computer screen and paper documents.
• Ability to lift and carry light objects such as files, documents, or office supplies, generally up to 30 pounds.

This job description is intended to outline the general responsibilities and requirements of the position. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, or qualifications associated with the role. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove responsibilities as needed to meet organizational needs. Employees may be required to perform other related duties as assigned.