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Forwarding Operations Specialist

Air Freight & Expedited Services

Late Shift : 12:00 PM–9:00 PM

Northlake, IL | Monday–Friday

For more then 40 years, The Custom Companies, Inc. has set the standard in full-service logistics, providing tailored solutions including Less Than Truckload (LTL), Ground & Air Expedited Services, Full/Partial Truckload, Specialized Services, and Warehousing. Backed by decades of experience and direct access to transportation assets, we deliver smarter, faster, and more reliable solutions, earning the trust of clients nationwide.

About the Opportunity

Forwarding Operations Specialist

We are seeking a dependable, detail-oriented Forwarding Operations Specialist to join our Air Freight & Expedited Services team in Northlake, IL.

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 12:00 PM–9:00 PM

This is a late-shift, hybrid operations position combining office-based transportation coordination with hands-on dock and warehouse responsibilities. This role is critical to supporting our afternoon and evening operations and ensuring time-sensitive freight continues moving efficiently through the later hours of the day.

The Forwarding Operations Specialist will support the daily movement, handling, tracking, and processing of customer freight from shipment acceptance through final delivery. The idealcandidate understands the fast-paced nature of transportation and is comfortable moving between shipment coordination, carrier and driver communication, system updates, and hands-on freight operations.

Key Responsibilities

Forwarding Operations

• Coordinate daily freight forwarding activities from shipment acceptance through final delivery.
• Enter, maintain, and manage accurate shipment information within the Transportation Management System (TMS).
• Review shipment details, including piece counts, weight and dimensions, routing requirements, service levels, and delivery requirements.
• Coordinate pickups, deliveries, routing, and carrier assignments.
• Monitor shipments in transit and provide proactive status updates.
• Identify and assist with resolving operational exceptions, delays, and service issues.
• Ensure required shipment documentation is accurate, complete, and properly maintained.

Dock & Warehouse Operations

• Provide hands-on support for daily dock and warehouse activities.
• Assist with freight receiving, inspection, staging, consolidation, loading, and unloading.
• Prepare pallets and organize freight for efficient movement and dispatch.
• Verify freight against Bills of Lading (BOLs), manifests, and other shipping documentation.
• Follow proper freight handling procedures to help prevent damage, shortages, and shipment errors.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized dock environment.

Air Freight & Expedited Services

• Support the preparation and movement of time-critical and expedited shipments.
• Assist with airport transfers, airline tender requirements, expedited recoveries, and critical shipment handling.
• Coordinate closely with Operations and Carrier Sales teams to ensure urgent shipments move successfully.
• Provide reliable operational coverage during the late shift to support time-sensitive afternoon and evening freight movements.
• Support after-hours or emergency transportation requirements when necessary.

Freight Accuracy & Quality Control

• Inspect inbound and outbound freight for accuracy and condition.
• Verify labels, piece counts, packaging, documentation, and special handling requirements.
• Immediately report discrepancies, damages, shortages, or documentation issues.
• Support claims prevention through accurate processing and proper freight handling.

Carrier & Driver Coordination

• Assist drivers with pickup and delivery activities.
• Verify carrier documentation and shipment requirements.
• Coordinate dock appointments and freight handoffs.
• Maintain professional relationships with drivers and transportation partners.
• Help support efficient driver turnaround times.

Customer & Operational Support

• Support Operations and Account Management teams with accurate shipment information and updates.
• Communicate shipment status and operational information as needed.
• Escalate service concerns and operational exceptions promptly.
• Help ensure customer commitments are met through accurate and efficient freight handling.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all company safety procedures and warehouse guidelines.
• Maintain compliance with applicable OSHA requirements and TSA security procedures.
• Follow customer-specific handling requirements and established freight-handling standards.
• Maintain accurate operational records and required documentation.
• Promote a safe, organized, and accountable working environment.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in transportation, freight forwarding, warehouse, distribution, or logistics operationspreferred.
• Knowledge of air freight, expedited transportation, LTL, or distribution operations strongly preferred.
• Ability and willingness to work the scheduled Monday–Friday, 12:00 PM–9:00 PM late shift.
• Ability and willingness to work in both office and warehouse/dock environments.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize multiple shipments and responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with customers, drivers, carriers, and internal teams.
• Ability to safely handle freight and operate applicable warehouse equipment.
• Flexibility to support time-sensitive or emergency transportation needs when required.

Core Competencies

• Freight Forwarding Operations
• Air Freight & Expedited Transportation
• Dock & Warehouse Operations
• Shipment Coordination
• Attention to Detail
• Problem Solving
• Time Management
• Team Collaboration
• Customer Service
• Safety Awareness
• Operational Accountability

What We Offer

• Competitive Salary
• Investment in Your Growth, Success & Career Advancement
• Industry-Leading Training & Direct Mentorship from Leadership
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: including health, vision, and dental coverage
• 401(k) & Company Match
• Generous Time Off: enjoy PTO, holidays, and an extra day off for your birthday — because your special day matters
• Proven Reputation & Legacy: join a trusted brand with 40 years of excellence, a leader in the logistics industry known for delivering quality and results
• Community Involvement: participate in charitable initiatives and give back to the communities we serve

Diversity & Inclusion

At The Custom Companies, Inc., diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of who we are. As a 100% Veteran-owned and Equal Opportunity Employer, we are proud to foster an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We believe that diverse backgrounds and perspectives drive innovation and excellence, and we welcome talented individuals from all walks of life to join our team.