International Operations Agent I

AIT Worldwide Logistics is a global freight forwarder that helps companies grow by expanding access to markets all over the world where they can sell and/or procure their raw materials, components and finished goods. For more than 40 years, the Chicago-based supply chain solutions leader has relied on a consultative approach to build a global network and trusted partnerships in nearly every industry, including aerospace, automotive, consumer retail, energy, food, government, high-tech, industrial, life sciences and marine. Backed by scalable, user-friendly technology, AIT's flexible business model customizes door-to-door deliveries via sea, air, ground and rail—on time and on budget. With expert teammates staffing more than 150 worldwide locations in Asia, Europe and North America, AIT's full-service options also include customs clearance, warehouse management and white glove services.

AIT Worldwide Logistics is an Equal Opportunity Employer – M/F/Veterans/Disabled. If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact Human Resources at ext 5218.

In addition to your base compensation, you may be eligible for a bonus based on achievement of business and/or individual performance metrics (dependent on position). Benefits offered include Medical, Prescription, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability, Supplemental Health, Employee Support, Paid Parental Leave, Pet Insurance, 401(k) and Tuition Reimbursement. In addition, teammates may be eligible for up to 10 to 20 days of vacation (depending on tenure), 2 personal days, 1 floating holiday, 5 sick days, 5 volunteer hours, and 6 company holidays (plus Veterans Day for Veterans) annually.

Join us at AIT, where we believe every day presents an opportunity to make a global impact

We're problem solvers, driven by our curiosity and creativity, in endless pursuit of solutions for our customers. Together, we champion the strength of our global teams. And, as trusted advisors, we go above and beyond, working together in a supportive and collaborative environment to ensure customer satisfaction. 

Through the company's continued growth, we challenge ourselves to be better, continuously learning and growing in our dynamic environment. Helping others is at the core of our culture, join us in finding fulfillment by giving back to our local communities as the united team that is AIT.  Find out what our people deliver. means when you come move the world with us  

Hear directly from our teammates at AIT Worldwide Logistics and make us the next stop on your career journey.

The International Operations Agent I, will report directly to the Operations Manager within the Operations department at the station. This position will be responsible for controlling International freight forwarding shipments into the USA and Mexico across all modes of transport per customer request. The International Operations Agent I is day-to-day responsibilities are quoting and routing freight, tracking shipments, troubleshooting and overcoming operational challenges as well as assisting local sales and global offices with air and/or ocean export matters. The International Operations Agent, primary focus is providing a high-level of excellent and quality customer service to all customers and vendors.

• Work with customers to qualify their shipping requirements and obtain all details (regulations, certificates, documentation) necessary for shipment quotation and operating in order to ensure the customer's request is satisfied.
• Prepare profitable quotations accurately.
• Set shipping schedules and communicate with customers, deliverers, and ports to verify loading, departures and arrivals in a timely manner.
• Coordinate the day to day import and/or export of products, including reviewing orders and documents.
• Track and communicate all delays, damages, problems and work to resolve customer issues.
• Responsible for all aspects of air and/or ocean international operations such as customer service, data entry of shipments, operations and billing.
• Manage all aspects of tracking shipments to ensure shipment is moving as scheduled and update system immediately upon verification. Identify and rectify if a shipment has deviated from its schedule.
• Coordinate recovery/delivery schedules with various cartage agents and international partners.
• Partner with local sales teams to communicate problems to customers, international partners and other stations, as needed.
• Ensure all customers' SOP instructions are adhered to and AIT KPIs and guidelines are followed and met.
• Ensure all shipments are properly billed within company guidelines and timelines.
• Process and comply with all requirements listed by regulatory agencies.
• Network with corresponding departments to ensure files are billed and posted prior to end of month
• Continuous learning through required compliance training and certifications of software and/or regulations.

Education Qualifications

• High School Diploma degree or equivalent Required
• Bachelor's Degree degree or equivalent Preferred or

Experience Qualifications

• 2+ years Industry experience in export/import operations Required or
• 2+ years Working knowledge of Freight Forwarder International Operations including: Basic IATA/NVOCC, FAA, TSA, Export Regulations, AES and General CBP knowledge Required and
• 2+ years Ability to multi-task in a high volume, fast-paced working environment Preferred and
• 2+ years Ability to problem solving to resolutions meeting the customers' needs

Skills and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of ITAR, DG or TSA work experience/regulations (High proficiency)
• General Computer Skills (Medium proficiency)

Licenses and Certifications

• Cargo-wise within 1-1/2 Yrs Required
• Microsoft Office suite within 1-1/2 Yrs Required

Other Skills We Hope to See:

• A team player who works well with others – being respectful to our teammates is a Core Value
• A strong work ethic with an appreciation for ownership, independence, accountability and autonomy in your role.
• Growth mindset – being passionate about your craft, always looking for ways to improve yourself and the company, being open to change and doing things differently.
• Customer service focus – we serve a wide variety of customers, both internal and external, and building relationships is a part of our culture