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Ocean Freight Procurement Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Identify opportunities to reduce total cost of ownership and improve supply continuity Procurement ... Evaluate air vs. ocean freight decisions based on urgency, cost, and inventory position * Oversee ...

Category Buyer

Springfield, OR · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Identify opportunities to reduce total cost of ownership and improve supply continuity Procurement ... Evaluate air vs. ocean freight decisions based on urgency, cost, and inventory position * Oversee ...

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Identify opportunities to reduce total cost of ownership and improve supply continuity Procurement ... Evaluate air vs. ocean freight decisions based on urgency, cost, and inventory position * Oversee ...

Ocean Freight Procurement information

What is ocean freight procurement?

Ocean freight procurement refers to the process of sourcing and negotiating transportation services for goods shipped by sea. Professionals in this field evaluate shipping options, negotiate contracts and rates with carriers, and ensure compliance with regulations to secure the best value and service for their company or clients. This role often involves managing relationships with shipping lines, freight forwarders, and other stakeholders, as well as monitoring market trends to optimize shipping strategies and costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an ocean freight procurement specialist?

To excel in Ocean Freight Procurement, you need a solid understanding of international shipping regulations, freight rate negotiation, and supply chain management, often supported by a degree in logistics or business. Familiarity with freight management software, contract management systems, and knowledge of Incoterms is typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for building relationships with carriers and ensuring cost-effective solutions. These competencies enable efficient, compliant, and strategic management of global shipping operations, directly impacting an organization’s logistics performance and cost control.

What are some typical challenges faced in an ocean freight procurement role, and how are they addressed?

Professionals in Ocean Freight Procurement often face challenges such as fluctuating shipping rates, carrier capacity constraints, and ensuring compliance with international trade regulations. To address these, they regularly analyze market trends, negotiate contracts with multiple carriers for flexibility, and maintain strong relationships with both internal stakeholders and logistics partners. Staying updated on regulatory changes and leveraging technology for real-time tracking and analytics also helps streamline operations and minimize risks. Team collaboration is key, as procurement specialists frequently coordinate with supply chain, logistics, and finance teams to achieve cost-effective and reliable shipping solutions.

What is the difference between Ocean Freight Procurement vs Ocean Freight Operations?

AspectOcean Freight ProcurementOcean Freight Operations
Primary FocusNegotiating contracts, sourcing carriers, cost optimizationManaging shipments, coordinating logistics, ensuring timely delivery
Required SkillsNegotiation, market analysis, vendor managementLogistics coordination, communication, problem-solving
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, supplier interactions, strategic planningOn-site at ports, warehouses, or shipping hubs
CertificationsSupply chain certifications, logistics trainingLogistics or supply chain certifications often preferred

While Ocean Freight Procurement focuses on sourcing and negotiating with carriers to secure the best rates, Ocean Freight Operations handles the execution of shipments, ensuring goods are transported efficiently. Both roles are essential in the shipping industry and often collaborate to optimize supply chain performance.

What are popular job titles related to Ocean Freight Procurement jobs in Oregon?

For Ocean Freight Procurement jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ocean Freight Procurement jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Ocean Freight Procurement jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Ocean Freight Procurement jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Ocean Freight Procurement job openings:

Category Buyer

Simonds International, LLC

Springfield, OR • On-site

$65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

About Burton Mill Solutions

Burton Mill Solutions is built on a foundation of responsiveness and a high-touch approach to customer service. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional value through strong supplier partnerships, operational excellence, and a proactive mindset. This role plays a pivotal part in supporting our commitment to customer success and supply chain performance.

Position Summary

The Category Buyer is responsible for managing and optimizing assigned spend categories, including the procurement of materials, products, and services for both resale and manufacturing. This role serves as a critical link between internal stakeholders and global suppliers, while driving cost efficiency, supply security, and operational accuracy.

The ideal candidate brings strong attention to detail, the ability to manage complexity, and a proactive, ownership-driven mindset.

Key Responsibilities

Category & Supplier Management

  • Manage a large, complex SKU portfolio with thousands of active items, ensuring accuracy and eliminating duplication
  • Work within highly technical product categories with multiple variants and specifications
  • Build and manage supplier relationships, primarily across Asia, including navigating time zones and cultural differences
  • Identify opportunities to reduce total cost of ownership and improve supply continuity

Procurement & Purchase Orders

  • Oversee full lifecycle management of purchase orders, including blanket orders and long-term supply strategies
  • Verify order acknowledgments and pricing accuracy
  • Maintain clear communication with suppliers and internal stakeholders regarding delivery timing and constraints
  • Create and maintain Item Masters and vendor pricing agreements

Inventory & Demand Planning

  • Maintain inventory levels aligned with business needs, balancing customer service and cost
  • Analyze demand patterns, lead times, and risk to establish inventory targets
  • Communicate future demand signals to suppliers to ensure supply readiness and efficiency

International Logistics & Imports

  • Evaluate air vs. ocean freight decisions based on urgency, cost, and inventory position
  • Oversee end-to-end import processes from Asia, including documentation, HTS classification guidance, and coordination with freight forwarders and customs brokers

Success Profile

This role requires a professional who can build credibility quickly and influence cross-functional teams. Success depends on responsiveness, proactive problem-solving, and the ability to drive both immediate results and long-term process improvements.

Core Competencies

  • Communication: Strong alignment and clarity with stakeholders
  • Negotiation: Balances supplier and company objectives for optimal outcomes
  • Ownership Mindset: Takes initiative and accountability for results
  • Attention to Detail: High accuracy and precision in all work
  • Proactive Approach: Anticipates needs and prepares in advance
  • Critical Thinking: Breaks down complex challenges and makes informed decisions
  • Problem Solving: Identifies root causes and delivers practical solutions

Salary Range: $65-100k DOE

Benefits

Burton Mill Solutions offers a competitive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (effective 1st of month after hire)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options
  • Company-paid basic life and short-term disability insurance
  • Optional additional life and long-term disability coverage
  • Up to $300/year wellness reimbursement
  • 401(k) with employer match (50% up to 3%)
  • Up to 96 hours PTO annually (no waiting period)
  • 8 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday
  • Up to $5,250/year tuition reimbursement
  • Annual safety boot and safety glasses reimbursement

Why Join Burton Mill Solutions?

  • Be part of a responsive, customer-focused organization
  • Work in a high-impact role with visible influence
  • Collaborate across teams and global suppliers
  • Opportunity to shape processes and drive continuous improvement