Import Assistant Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Panama City Beach, FL (on-site)

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Import Specialist II to manage day-to-day international import operations. In this role, you will ensure the timely, compliant, and cost-effective movement of goods from origin to final U.S. destination while maintaining full visibility across the supply chain.

This position plays a critical role in coordinating shipments, resolving issues, and partnering with internal teams and external logistics providers to support efficient inbound operations.

Key Responsibilities

· Manage end-to-end ocean import shipments from origin to final delivery, ensuring timely and accurate execution

· Review and validate import documentation to support ISF filings and ensure compliance with U.S. Customs (CBP) requirements

· Coordinate with freight forwarders, customs brokers, carriers, and drayage providers to ensure smooth cargo movement

· Monitor shipment milestones and proactively resolve issues including delays, customs holds, and documentation discrepancies

· Manage container availability and free time to minimize demurrage, detention, and accessorial costs

· Review and validate freight invoices, identifying discrepancies and supporting cost control efforts

· Maintain accurate shipment tracking and data integrity across internal systems and reporting tools

· Collaborate with procurement, warehouse, and finance teams to support inbound operations and inventory planning

· Support continuous improvement efforts by identifying process gaps and assisting with SOP updates

Additional Responsibilities

· Act as backup to the Imports Manager/Supervisor during absences

· Support onboarding and training of new team members

· Assist with workload prioritization and provide guidance on daily operations

Qualifications

· Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, International Business, Business Administration or equivalent work experience

· 3 – 6 years of experience in ocean import operations, freight forwarding, or international logistics

· Strong understanding of import processes, CBP regulations, and ISF requirements

· Experience coordinating shipments with multiple carriers, brokers, and vendors

· Proficiency with freight/logistics systems and Microsoft Excel

· Strong organizational, problem-solving, and multitasking skills

· Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

· Experience using ACE reporting tools

· Working knowledge of Incoterms and ocean shipping documentation

· Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) or Licensed Customs Broker (LCB) certification (or in progress)

Who We Are

Gulf Coast Panama Jack is based in Panama City Beach, FL and is the official wholesale distributor of Panama Jack products from Louisiana through Alabama, and Florida to the Everglades. We also carry a variety of beach products, including apparel, headwear, eyewear, towels, chairs, umbrellas, bodyboards, bags, coolers, sand toys, games, swim gear and much, much more. With additional warehouse distribution centers in Orange Beach, AL, Orlando and Sarasota, FL, we provide quality services with prompt product delivery.

What We Offer

· 401(K) with 3.5% company match

· Flexible Schedules (with core business hours covered)

· Employee discounts

· Full range of benefits: medical, dental, vision, STD, voluntary life, PTO

Physical Requirements

This position requires you to sit, stand and perform general office functions. You may also be required to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally. Bending, stooping and reaching are also frequently required.

Equal Employment Opportunity

It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and associates. This policy includes our commitment to ensure that all employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, or any other non-job-related characteristic protected by law.