Import Export Operation Manager

Import Export Operation Manager

El Segundo, California, United States

Import Export Operation Manager - Japanese Bilingual - Minimum 7 Years of Experience in Freight Forwarding

We are seeking an Operations Specialist/Coordinator to support day-to-day freight forwarding operations during the U.S. launch phase. This role will work closely with the U.S. Director and collaborate with Japan headquarters and the Thailand team.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle day-to-day freight forwarding operations (Ocean / Air / Import / Export)
• Coordinate shipments, documentation, and delivery schedules
• Communicate with customers, vendors, carriers, and overseas offices
• Monitor shipment status and resolve operational issues as they arise
• Support operational process setup during the U.S. branch launch phase
• Assist with internal coordination and reporting as needed

Required Qualifications

• Experience in freight forwarding or logistics operations (flexible depending on skill set)
• Basic to solid knowledge of Ocean and/or Air Import & Export operations
• Business-level English communication skills (required)
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
• Ability to work on-site in the Los Angeles area

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of logistics or freight forwarding experience
• Experience handling both import and export operations
• Japanese language skills or familiarity with Japanese business culture
• Experience working with overseas offices or international clients

Ideal Candidate Profile

We are looking for someone who:

• Is detail-oriented and reliable in daily operations
• Communicates clearly and proactively
• Is comfortable asking questions and seeking clarification
• Takes responsibility and follows through on tasks
• Enjoys working in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Can adapt to change in a growing, launch-phase organization

Compensation & Benefits (Indicative)

• Salary: $75K-$90K (DOE)
• Standard business hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
• Potential flexibility in work style as the organization grows
• Benefits to be discussed (health insurance, PTO, etc.)

Our Vision

To be a Knot that connects people and nations—bridging Japan and the United States by supporting sustainable business and cross-border collaboration.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a U.S. business launch from an early stage
• Work closely with leadership and gain broad operational exposure
• Grow with a global logistics company that values communication and trust