Ocean Freight Forwarding Manager
Seattle, WA · Full-time · Hybrid · Permanent · $90,000 - $115,000 base · Ref CSC-2026-214
An operations leadership role for a global freight forwarder, running ocean import/export out of the Seattle-Tacoma gateway. You'll own day-to-day operations, carrier and steamship-line relationships, documentation and compliance, and the development of a coordinator team.
What you'll be doing
- Lead day-to-day ocean import/export operations across FCL and LCL
- Own carrier and steamship-line relationships, space, and rate negotiation
- Ensure accurate documentation, bookings, and customs coordination
- Manage, schedule, and coach a team of freight coordinators
- Hit branch KPIs on service, margin, and on-time delivery
- Partner with sales to onboard new accounts and grow existing ones
What we're looking for
- 5+ years in ocean freight forwarding, with team-lead or supervisory experience
- Deep knowledge of FCL/LCL operations, INCOTERMS, and export documentation
- Established relationships with ocean carriers and NVOCCs
- Strong understanding of US customs and trade compliance touchpoints
- Experience with forwarding software (e.g., CargoWise) an asset
Compensation & benefits
- $90,000 - $115,000 base
- Medical, dental, and vision; 401(k) match
- Hybrid, Seattle-based; performance bonus
Responsibilities
- Lead day-to-day ocean import/export operations across FCL and LCL
- Own carrier and steamship-line relationships, space, and rate negotiation
- Ensure accurate documentation, bookings, and customs coordination
- Manage, schedule, and coach a team of freight coordinators
- Hit branch KPIs on service, margin, and on-time delivery
- Partner with sales to onboard new accounts and grow existing ones
Requirements
- 5+ years in ocean freight forwarding, with team-lead or supervisory experience
- Deep knowledge of FCL/LCL operations, INCOTERMS, and export documentation
- Established relationships with ocean carriers and NVOCCs
- Strong understanding of US customs and trade compliance touchpoints
- Experience with forwarding software (e.g., CargoWise) an asset