Logistics Specialist - International Ocean Freight

Logistics Specialist Ocean Import (Hybrid) — Chicago, IL Wuensche USA is looking for a proactive, detail-oriented Logistics Specialist to join our team in the Chicago area. This is a hybrid role, and candidates must live within commuting distance to Chicago. This is an importer-side role. You'll be the internal owner of import compliance and shipment execution across Food, E-Commerce/Brands, Hardgoods, and Fashion - not a forwarder liaison booking freight on someone else's behalf. You'll be moving fast across multiple business units at once, so we need someone who thrives on juggling priorities without dropping details. What You'll Do Food + E-Commerce / Brands (Importer of Record) Serve as the internal owner of Importer of Record responsibilities — customs bonds, ISF filing, duty payment and reconciliation, and PGA/FDA compliance for food shipments Manage the full logistics process from origin to final delivery Manage broker relationships and audit broker-filed entries for accuracy Communicate frequently with logistics providers and internal teams on market conditions and shipment status Identify the quickest and most cost-effective routes and communicate changes internally Create, submit, and follow up on shipping calls with suppliers and forwarders Track container bookings and shipment progress at originli>Update internal tracking spreadsheets and monitor arrivals, delays, and schedule changes Manage shipping documentation (Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, COO, NOP, etc.) Create trucking orders for inland transport from port to warehouse Review and approve freight invoices Build efficiencies and synergies across departments Negotiate freight rates when necessary Hardgoods + Fashion (FOB Shipments) Oversee and monitor FOB shipments from origin to final delivery Track orders daily and alert teams to any changes in booking or arrival schedules Manage shipping documentation (Commercial Invoice, Bill of Lading, inspection forms, etc.) Prepare pro-forma invoices for customs clearance (FOB shipments) Coordinate with vendors, customers, internal US teams, Germany HQ, and China teams Communicate directly with customers regarding shipment concerns or SOP questions Support multi-country shipments and ensure bookings align with SOP Assist with HTS classification support and customs-related coordination when necessary Coordinate rework processes in the US when needed (packaging, replacement parts, etc.) All Departments Manage multiple business units' shipments simultaneously without losing track of details — this role requires re-prioritizing in real time when several shipments need attention at once Work with the First Sale Rule for customer shipments (in process) Coordinate with the Finance Team about ship dates and update the freight tracker daily Monitor global shipping news daily including port closures, tariffs, capacity changes, and alert the company to relevant developments What We're Looking For Prior experience on the importer/brand side (in-house at an importer, retailer, or brand). Candidates whose experience is limited to a freight forwarder, NVOCC, or customs brokerage will not have the Import background this role requires. 3+ years of logistics or supply chain experience, including direct exposure to import compliance (international experience required) Working knowledge of HTS classification and tariffs a plus Strong understanding of transportation and warehouse logistics Experience with Amazon FBA and Multi-Channel Fulfillment is a plus Demonstrated ability to manage several time-sensitive shipments at once and re-prioritize quickly under pressure Polished, executive-level written and verbal communication — you'll be communicating directly with customers and with Germany HQ, not just internal ops Degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field preferred Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint Compensation $63,000 - $72,000 You’ll join a fast-moving international trading organization with broad product categories, real ownership, and opportunities to make a measurable impact across departments. #J-18808-Ljbffr Wuensche USA