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Import Purchasing Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ensure compliance with company purchasing policies, import/export requirements, and record-keeping. * Implement data-driven inventory management strategies to mitigate material risks, such as Excess ...

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Warehouse Associate

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.65 - $20/hr

Northside Imports is a family owned company specializing in the distribution of European and German ... Monitor inventory levels and report discrepancies to the manager. * Ensure that warehouse areas are ...

Purchasing - Buyer/Planner

Fremont, CA · On-site

$69K - $103K/yr

Ensure compliance with company purchasing policies, import/export requirements, and record-keeping. * Implement data-driven inventory management strategies to mitigate material risks, such as Excess ...

Accounting Manager

Montebello, CA · Hybrid

$100K - $1M/yr

The Accounting Manager will be a key member of the finance team, responsible for the coordination ... as Imports purchases, access cost, Energy expenses, freight outward, Insurance expenses, IT ...

Automotive Finance Manager

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$72K - $180K/yr

... or import preferred Bay Area Veterans encouraged to apply $80,000 - $200,000/yr OTE IS THIS YOU ... purchase that started the moment they walked through the door. WHAT YOU'LL DO • Present and close ...

Maintain accurate shipment, purchase order, and freight data within ERP and transportation systems * Assist with customs compliance, import regulations, duty management, and freight invoice ...

... import regulations, and international shipping requirements. * Builds and maintains strong ... Maintains accurate and comprehensive procurement data to enable reporting on purchasing trends ...

... purchase orders and customized management services. The Operations Manager will be responsible for all operational services, including but not limited to Imports/Exports via Air/Ocean movement, as ...

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Showing results 41-60

Import Purchasing Manager information

What does an import purchasing manager do?

An Import Purchasing Manager is responsible for sourcing and purchasing goods from international suppliers for their company. They negotiate contracts, manage supplier relationships, and ensure that imports comply with all regulations and quality standards. These managers also coordinate logistics, monitor inventory levels, and work to minimize costs while ensuring timely delivery of products. Their role is crucial in maintaining efficient supply chains and supporting business operations that rely on imported goods.

What are some common challenges faced by import purchasing managers and how can they be addressed?

Import Purchasing Managers often face challenges such as navigating complex international regulations, managing supplier relationships across different time zones, and dealing with fluctuating shipping costs. Staying updated on import/export laws and fostering strong communication with global suppliers are key to overcoming these hurdles. Additionally, utilizing supply chain management software and collaborating closely with logistics and compliance teams can help ensure smoother operations and minimize delays.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an import purchasing manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Import Purchasing Manager, you need expertise in supply chain management, international trade regulations, and procurement practices, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in business or a related field. Familiarity with ERP systems, sourcing software, and import/export documentation is commonly required, and certifications like CPSM can be advantageous. Strong negotiation, analytical thinking, and cross-cultural communication skills help build reliable supplier relationships and navigate complex global markets. These abilities are essential to ensure cost-effective purchasing, compliance with regulations, and smooth international supply chain operations.

What is the difference between Import Purchasing Manager vs Import Buyer?

AspectImport Purchasing ManagerImport Buyer
ResponsibilitiesOversees import procurement strategies, manages supplier relationships, and coordinates logistics at a managerial level.Handles day-to-day purchasing activities, negotiates with suppliers, and processes import orders.
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in supply chain, logistics, or business; certifications like CPSM are common.Often requires similar educational background; certifications are less common but beneficial.
Work EnvironmentWorks in corporate offices or procurement departments within manufacturing, retail, or logistics companies.Works in procurement or purchasing departments, often closely collaborating with logistics teams.

The Import Purchasing Manager focuses on strategic import procurement and supplier management, while the Import Buyer handles daily purchasing tasks and order processing. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the manager role involves higher-level planning and oversight.

What are popular job titles related to Import Purchasing Manager jobs in California?

For Import Purchasing Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Import Purchasing Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Import Purchasing Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Import Purchasing Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Warehouse Shipping & Export Logistics - Manager

Service Global, Inc

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Role Summary:
The Shipping & Logistics Manager will oversee end-to-end shipping, receiving, logistics, warehousing, material handling, distribution, and related systems/tools within a manufacturing environment. This role will manage inbound and outbound logistics operations, carrier selection, shipment planning, third-party warehousing, import/export coordination, inventory accuracy, logistics KPIs, and continuous improvement initiatives.
The position will work closely with the Purchasing, Planning, Manufacturing, Sales, Finance, Product Development, Corporate Transportation, and Import/Export Trade Compliance teams to ensure timely, cost-effective, compliant, and customer-focused logistics operations.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Direct inbound and outbound logistics operations, including transportation, inventory control, warehouse activities, safety performance, and logistics quality management.
  • Assess and recommend optimal shipping methods, carriers, routing, equipment, and shipment frequency to meet delivery timelines, transportation requirements, and cost targets.
  • Recommend carrier base, negotiate competitive rates, and support logistics service agreements and transportation contracts.
  • Review shipping notices, bills of lading, invoices, orders, and other records to determine shipping priorities, work assignments, and shipping methods.
  • Determine shipment space requirements, truckload planning, routing, and legal load limits based on established schedules and weight limits.
  • Maintain logistics metrics, customer service logs, process documentation, safety training records, and operational reporting.
  • Monitor import and export processes to support legal, regulatory, and trade compliance requirements.
  • Oversee worldwide distribution center operations to ensure cost, productivity, accuracy, and on-time delivery targets are achieved.
  • Collaborate with Sales, Order Management, Accounting, Planning, Purchasing, Manufacturing, and Product Development teams to align logistics with business systems and processes.
  • Conduct and review audits for storage, distribution, transportation, inventory, and logistics activities.
  • Develop and implement methods to maintain accurate inventory levels, including timely and effective cycle count completion.
  • Manage logistics RFPs, carrier/service provider reviews, international transportation agreements, and freight forwarder relationships.
  • Perform total landed cost analysis and provide regular updates to internal stakeholders.
  • Develop and maintain international transportation SOPs with freight forwarders and logistics service providers.
  • Drive continuous improvement, good distribution practices, risk mitigation, and contingency planning for critical shipping lanes.
  • Evaluate and implement supply chain improvement tools related to cost savings, shipment tracking, visibility, market analysis, and communication processes.
  • Monitor logistics provider performance through KPIs, service reviews, and quarterly business reviews.
  • Coordinate the claims process for international shipments with freight forwarders and risk management.
  • Support global logistics integration projects, including shipping validation, IT systems enablement, trade compliance, and regulatory implementation.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • Directly supervise 4-7 employees within Shipping and Receiving.
  • Support interviewing, hiring, training, scheduling, work assignment, performance appraisal, coaching, corrective action, and employee issue resolution.
  • Ensure team productivity, process discipline, safety compliance, and customer-focused execution.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, Operations, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 10+ years of experience in shipping, logistics, warehouse, distribution, or manufacturing logistics operations.
  • Prior supervisory experience managing shipping, receiving, warehouse, or logistics team members.
  • Strong understanding of inbound and outbound transportation, carrier management, warehousing, inventory control, and shipment documentation.
  • Experience working with bills of lading, invoices, shipping notices, customer orders, freight documentation, and logistics records.
  • Knowledge of import/export processes, transportation compliance, routing, load planning, and shipment risk management.
  • Ability to develop, monitor, and interpret logistics KPIs related to productivity, overtime, cost, accuracy, service levels, and on-time delivery.
  • Strong Microsoft Office skills, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Ability to read and interpret safety rules, operating instructions, maintenance instructions, procedures, and manuals.
  • Ability to write routine reports, correspondence, SOPs, and operational updates.
  • Strong numerical ability, including rate, ratio, percentage, basic cost calculations, and KPI interpretation.
  • Strong problem-solving ability and sound judgment in standardized and time-sensitive logistics situations.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to interact with internal teams, vendors, customers, and management.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with Microsoft AX, Microsoft SharePoint, database tools, and payroll/operations systems.
  • APICS CPIM certification is preferred.
  • Compliance, traffic, transportation, or trade compliance certification/training is a plus.
  • Valid driver's license preferred.
  • Experience with freight forwarders, 3PL providers, international shipping, landed cost analysis, and logistics RFPs.
  • Prior experience in a manufacturing, hardware, electronics, OEM/ODM, or technology infrastructure environment is preferred.
Key Competencies:
  • Customer-focused mindset
  • Strong leadership and team development skills
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Attention to detail and documentation discipline
  • Analytical thinking and KPI-driven decision-making
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Resilience and ownership
  • Continuous improvement mindset
  • Vendor and carrier management
  • Compliance and risk awareness

Mandatory Skills
Supply Chain Logistics Management/Shipping Warehouse Operations/Carrier 3PL Management/Transportation Distribution/Import/Export Compliance