Air Import Specialist

Job Title: Air Import Specialist

Location & Job Type: Queens, NY | Full-Time

Company Overview

Altius Talent is partnering with an established international freight forwarder providing air, ocean, and customs brokerage services to importers and exporters across a range of industries. The company is known for its responsive service, strong carrier and airline relationships, and a team-oriented culture.

Position Overview

The Air Import Specialist will manage inbound air freight shipments from origin through final delivery. This role serves as a key point of contact for customers, overseas agents, airlines, cargo terminals, truckers, and customs brokers, ensuring time-sensitive shipments are tracked, cleared, and delivered efficiently. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple urgent shipments in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of air import shipments, from pre-alert through customs clearance and final delivery
• Track flights and shipments, monitor ETAs, and proactively communicate delays, reroutes, and schedule changes to customers and internal teams
• Coordinate with overseas agents, airlines, cargo terminals, and local delivery carriers
• Review and process MAWBs, HAWBs, commercial invoices, and packing lists for accuracy and completeness
• Confirm flight arrival and freight release status, and arrange timely pickup from airline cargo terminals
• Work with the customs brokerage team to ensure entries are submitted on time and shipments are cleared without delay
• Monitor and manage storage and terminal charges, working to minimize costs and avoid delays
• Coordinate in-bond movements and transfers between airports and warehouses as needed
• Arrange delivery appointments and dispatch trucking, including expedited and same-day services
• Resolve holds, exams, discrepancies, and shortages or damages in coordination with airlines, brokers, and government agencies
• Prepare quotes and invoices, and verify vendor charges for accuracy
• Maintain shipment records and update the forwarding system (CargoWise or comparable) in real time
• Provide excellent customer service, responding promptly to inquiries and status requests

Key Skills & Qualifications

• 1-3 years of experience in air import operations or freight forwarding
• Working knowledge of air freight processes, including AWBs, chargeable weight, and import documentation
• Familiarity with the customs clearance process, in-bond procedures, and Incoterms
• Understanding of airline and terminal handling, release procedures, and storage charges
• Experience with CargoWise or a similar freight forwarding system is a plus
• Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritize competing, time-sensitive deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook
• Knowledge of JFK airport operations and cargo terminals is a plus

What's on Offer

• Base salary of $60,000 - $70,000, depending on experience
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Stable company with a strong industry reputation
• Opportunities for growth and professional development
• Collaborative team environment in the Queens area

Interested? Reach out to Altius Talent to learn more or to be considered for this opportunity.