Import Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summary: The Imports Associate is responsible for tracking and coordinating inbound ocean containers from overseas to MSI Distribution Centers, communicating with shipping lines, trucking companies, U.S. Customs, port terminals, and the operations team to resolve shipment issues, ensure timely deliveries, and maintain efficient import operations.

Work Hours: Monday to Friday from 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM, 2 Saturday(s) a month from 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Seniority Level: Associate

Employment Type: Full-time

Compensation: This hourly, non-exempt position pays from $22 to $25 per hour, with overtime compensated at 1.5 times the base rate. New hires usually earn between $57,800 and $65,600 annually, or more, depending on experience, overtime hours, and bonuses.

To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to complete the following essential duties and responsibilities:

• Generate and maintain various reports related to Inbound containers from overseas
• Monitor and troubleshooting of freight/Customs, and ocean bill of lading (OBL) issues
• Approve and process accounts payable invoices and vouchers as needed
• Reconcile and maintain accounts payable statements with shipping lines and trucking companies
• Coordinate the resolution of shipment discrepancies, ETA delays, and destination changes
• Assist Managements with additional assigned duties

Additionally the candidate must meet the following Education and/or Experience requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university
• 1-2 years of experience in International Logistics of Ocean Import shipment related
• Ability to communicate with Shipping lines, US Customs, Port's Terminals, Trucking Companies and Freight Forwarders
• Able to analyze data related to costs and offer better options
• Clear communication with the ability to use positive language
• Attentiveness and able to work under pressure
• Proven ability to handle multiple tasks at once
• Goal oriented focus
• Good mathematical skills; ability to do calculations quickly
• Demonstrated experience with the use of PCs, along with the ability to navigate in a multi-window based environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Outlook and Word; advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel preferred

This role has the following physical demands:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use their hands to handle objects, tools, or controls; reach with their hands and arms; and communicate verbally. The employee frequently walks, stands and occasionally sits.
• The employee must occasionally lift, pull and move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

Benefits: MSI offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Referral, Holiday, and Annual Bonuses
• Annual pay increases
• Paid Time Off
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Company-paid Short Term and Long Term disability
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Traditional and Roth 401(k) plans with company matching contributions
• Free, company-sponsored 1-on-1 tutoring for children/dependents of MSI employees in grades k-12, including free tutoring for SAT and ACT tests

Over the years, MSI has been the recipient of many prestigious awards including:

• Top 5 fastest growing companies - OC Business Journal
• Supplier Diversity Award - Home Depot
• #1 Flooring Distributor multiple years in a row - Floor Covering Weekly
• Top Workplaces Award winner multiple times - Top Workplaces
• MSI Founder named the Entrepreneur of the Year - Ernst and Young

MSI is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and fosters inclusion and belonging for all employees. We provide a work environment that allows all employees to do their best work, free from all forms of discrimination. No employee or applicant will be discriminated against on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, citizenship status, military status, religion, disability status, or any other legally protected group. MSI provides reasonable accommodations for all employees and applicants. If you believe you require an accommodation, please speak with your recruiter or a member of our HR team.