Shipping and Logistics Specialist - Artech - Renton WA
Artech, Inc.
Shipping and Logistics Specialist
Position Summary
The Logistics specialist position works within the Transportation Department and with cross-functional employees to provide subject matter expertise for domestic and international shipping. The Logistics Specialist is responsible for the success of Artech shipments or sub-projects within larger engagements. Logistics Specialists interact with Account Managers, Project Managers and vendors to plan and execute freight movements, and work within the Logistics team to support small projects and shipping jobs. Logistics Specialists also interact with customers to arrange for collection, documentation, booking and estimating client shipments.
The Logistics Specialist is responsible for:
Vendor Relations
· Identifies, qualifies and establishes strategic relationships with logistics vendors, including customs brokers, freight forwarders, air, ground and ocean carriers, art logistics companies and other 3rd party logistics providers. Coordinates 3rd party scope delivery and ensures competitive pricing of logistics services.
· Establishes and communicates performance standards and expectations for logistics vendors. Evaluates, tracks and monitors vendor performance to meet Artech standards and continuously improve shipping processes.
· Develops strategic partnerships with vendors to improve service delivery, lower costs and improve efficiency of shipping operations.
· Coordinates vendor payments, purchase orders and/or agreements in accordance with company policies.
Shipping Execution
· Arranges pick-up and delivery of both inbound and outbound shipments. Responsible for tracking and communicating shipments, status and schedule to clients, crews, vendors and other internal and external stakeholders.
· Coordinates shipment security, including following U.S. Transportation Security Administration screened cargo custody procedures, interfacing with port police and real-time tracking and monitoring of shipments and cargo movement.
· Tracks and reports shipping expenses. Collects and reports data for efficiency metrics, such as estimate accuracy, schedule performance and throughput.
· Continuously improves logistics services processes. Collaborates with cross-functional team members to improve organizational processes, develop workflows and improve service delivery.
· Completes, collects and follows up on daily Bills of Lading, Airway Bills, import/export documentation, chain of custody, legal, insurance and regulatory documentation (DOT, CBP, TSA, etc). Organizes, files and retains job-related documentation in compliance with applicable regulation and company policies.
· Identifies, analyzes and tracks risks and issues with shipments. Proactively plans and takes action to avoid risks and resolve issues with clients, internal stakeholders and vendors.
· Develops knowledge and expertise in international shipping, import and export processes, customs regulations and shipping industry standards. Serves as the companys subject matter expert on shipping industry and regulatory standards and compliance. Serves as back up for other Logistics team functions as needed.
Client Relations
· Produces timely and accurate estimates to internal and external customers for 3rd party domestic and international shipping, customs brokerage fees, shuttle and express services and simple installation, storage and transport jobs.
· Serves as a liaison to the client for shipping projects as required. Works with project and account managers to confirm client bookings via email or phone.
· Coordinates client billing and collection in accordance with company policies. Tracks and ensures timely payment of invoices by following up regularly with clients about overdue invoices.
Required Skills and Abilities
2+ years of experience in logistics, transportation, warehousing or related field
2+ years of experience working in an office environment
Intermediate to Advanced Microsoft Excel, Outlook and Word
Ability to work as part of a team, independently and in cross-functional teams
Ability to build and maintain interpersonal relationships with co-workers and clients
Experience implementing process improvements in a logistics environment preferred
Experience or education in fine arts industry preferred
Travel between 0-10%
