Weekend Container Terminal Vessel Planner Jobs in Illinois

About Laufer Group International
Laufer Group International is a leading international freight forwarder, customs broker, and global logistics provider. Headquartered in New York with offices throughout the United States and an extensive worldwide partner network, we deliver customized supply chain solutions that help businesses move freight efficiently across the globe.

Our services include international air freight, ocean freight, customs brokerage, warehousing, import and export management, and end-to-end supply chain solutions. At Laufer, we combine industry expertise with innovative technology and exceptional customer service to help customers navigate today's increasingly complex global marketplace.

About the Role
Laufer is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Customer Service Representative – Ocean Imports to join our Ocean Import Operations team. In this role, you'll help coordinate international ocean shipments from arrival through final delivery while providing exceptional service to our customers.

You'll work closely with customers, customs brokers, ocean carriers, trucking companies, terminals, and internal teams to ensure shipments move efficiently, documentation is accurate, and customers receive timely updates throughout the import process. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to begin or grow a career in international logistics, freight forwarding, or supply chain operations.

What You'll Do

• Serve as a primary point of contact for customers throughout the ocean import process.
• Issue arrival notices to customers and designated customs brokers.
• Review shipment information, including vessel schedules, estimated arrival dates (ETA), ports of discharge (POD), purchase order (PO), and delivery details.
• Monitor shipment status and provide timely updates to customers and internal teams.
• Coordinate with trucking companies, ocean carriers, terminals, and customs brokers to support the timely movement of freight.
• Issue delivery orders and assist with scheduling deliveries.
• Track shipments, container availability, cargo deliveries, and empty container returns.
• Update shipment information and maintain accurate records in the transportation management system.
• Help resolve shipment issues by working with customers and logistics partners.
• Ensure all documentation is complete, accurate, and processed according to company procedures.
• Support the team with additional operational and customer service responsibilities as needed.

What You'll Bring

• Customer service, administrative, logistics, or supply chain experience preferred but not required.
• Interest in international logistics, freight forwarding, supply chain, or transportation.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a customer-first mindset.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to learn.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office and learning new software systems.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a team.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, or a related field is a plus but not required.

Why Join Laufer?
At Laufer, we believe great careers begin with great opportunities. You'll receive hands-on training, mentorship from experienced logistics professionals, and exposure to the global supply chain industry while building valuable skills that can lead to long-term career growth.

Our benefits include:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with company cost-sharing
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Medical Bridge Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical and Dependent Care)
• Company-paid short-term disability, long-term disability, life insurance, and AD&D coverage
• 401(k) with generous company match
• Generous paid time off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Recognition Program
• $500 annual charitable giving benefit through our Giveback Program

Compensation: $40,000

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