Air Import Specialist

Job Description

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

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

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

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• Base salary of $60,000 - $70,000, depending on experience
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• Comprehensive benefits package
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• Stable company with a strong industry reputation
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• Opportunities for growth and professional development
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• Collaborative team environment in the Queens area
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Interested? Reach out to Altius Talent to learn more or to be considered for this opportunity.