Traffic Coordinator

Traffic Coordinator

At Okuma America Corporation, we are committed to delivering innovative CNC machine tool solutions and building lifelong relationships with our distributors and customers. The Traffic Coordinator plays a critical role in ensuring machines, options, accessories, and related equipment are delivered accurately, efficiently, and in compliance with all domestic and international shipping requirements.

This position serves as a central point of coordination between distributors, customers, suppliers, freight carriers, and internal teams to facilitate machine shipments, movements, and supporting documentation. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple logistics activities in a fast-paced environment.

Manage Machine Shipments

• Administer the approval and release process for machine shipments to distributors and customers.
• Coordinate shipments of:
  • Stock machines (domestic and export)
  • Consignment and lease machines
  • Machines destined for regional shows and expositions
  • Options and accessory items sold as part of machine orders or lease programs
• Ensure all shipment activities are completed accurately and on schedule.

Coordinate Logistics & Documentation

• Communicate with distributors, customers, suppliers, freight carriers, port personnel, and customs brokers regarding shipment requirements and schedules.
• Prepare and process release documentation for machine shipments.
• Generate bills of lading and supporting shipping documents.
• Prepare export documentation and ensure compliance with applicable shipping regulations and requirements.
• Maintain accurate shipment records and documentation.

Administer Machine Movement Requests

• Coordinate and track machine movement requests, including:
  • Consignment and lease machines
  • Trade show and showroom machines
  • Return and repossessed machines
  • RDT and machine run-off activities
• Collaborate with internal departments to ensure machine movements are executed efficiently and documented properly.

Process Purchasing & Freight-Related Transactions

• Process purchase orders for suppliers providing options and accessory items associated with machine orders.
• Coordinate and process purchase orders related to freight, rigging, and machine movement expenses.
• Monitor related costs and assist with documentation required for payment processing and recordkeeping.

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

• Associate degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain, Logistics, International Business, or a related field preferred but not required.
• 2+ years of experience in logistics, transportation coordination, shipping administration, customer service, or a related role.
• Experience with domestic and international shipping processes preferred.
• Familiarity with export documentation, bills of lading, customs requirements, and freight coordination.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Outlook.
• Experience working with ERP systems, purchasing processes, or inventory management systems is a plus.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Minimum two years' experience in Transportation. Must demonstrate a clear understanding of principles and methods of moving goods by road and air, including relative costs and benefits.
• Knowledge of US Export Regulations. Preferably related to Dual Use Items (Machine Tools)
• The ability to speak and write clearly and effectively to both internal and external customers.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks/ priorities.
• Knowledge of MS Office Suite (specifically Excel and Word)

Additional Desired Experience:

• Knowledge of Japanese Export Regulations (METI)
• General knowledge of Cost Accounting principles