Global Forwarding Agent-Ocean Export

Job Title:              Global Forwarding Agent-Ocean Export

Department:         Finance-Export Operations

Reports To:           Manager, Ag Export Forwarding

Organizational Background:

Columbia Grain International, LLC is a global leader in the origination, processing, logistics and distribution of high-quality bulk grains, pulses, edible beans, oilseeds, and organics for domestic and worldwide export markets. Our vertically integrated company is headquartered in Portland, OR, and we own and operate over 60 facilities including grain elevators and pulse processing plants across WA, ID, MT, NE, and ND.

At all levels of our organization, our employees are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable in the industry. We've spent over 40 years cultivating lasting partnerships with a wide network of producers and the local communities surrounding our facilities, which enables us to source the highest quality product and to fulfill our mission of feeding the world.

Position Description:

We’re seeking a highly organized and proactive Global Forwarding Agent-Ocean Export to join our Export Operations team. In this role, you’ll oversee the full export process from order entry to documentation and final shipment—ensuring international customer orders are executed accurately and on time.

You’ll act as a key liaison between customers, internal departments (Logistics, Merchandising, Demand Planning), and external partners (freight forwarders, trans loaders, carriers). You will handle everything from reviewing contracts and monitoring shipment statuses to submitting documentation, managing compliance, and invoicing. Your attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities will directly contribute to our customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. In the role, you will also act as the central point of communication between internal departments, logistics providers and international customers to ensure timely and accurate execution of export contracts.

You will also be responsible for managing customer inquiries, entering and maintaining orders in the ERP system, coordinating shipping and booking logistics and preparing all necessary export documentation. This includes monitoring shipment schedules, ensuring regulatory and customer compliance, and tracking documentation such as import permits, phytosanitary certificates and Bills of Lading. You’ll also collaborate with planning, logistics and merchandising teams to align shipments with customer expectations and internal timelines.

Additionally, this role requires strong organizational and communication skills, the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy are essential, especially when handling time-sensitive shipping documents and compliance requirements. The ability to manage multiple files simultaneously and provide timely follow-up is critical to success in this role.

In addition to core order and shipment management duties, you’ll support daily sales activities, help resolve claims, assist teammates when needed, and participate in meetings or calls related to account management and logistics coordination.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage incoming emails and customer inquiries; enter and acknowledge orders in a timely manner.
• Coordinate contract and shipment updates in the ERP system, ensuring accurate and up-to-date records
• Collaborate with internal teams to set shipment details (e.g., Port of Loading, cargo readiness, booking)
• Prepare and submit shipping documentation including Bills of Lading, AES filings, and invoices.
• Track and manage documentation requirements such as import permits, grade certificates, and phytosanitary docs
• Communicate booking and shipment details to customers; follow through to ensure timely delivery
• Monitor and support compliance with international trade regulations and documentation deadlines
• Close out shipment files by confirming accruals and archiving signed documents for audit purposes
• Assist with claim processing, daily customer support, and provide cross-functional support as needed

Skills, Knowledge, Education and Experience:

• 2+ years of experience in export customer service, international logistics, or global supply chain
• Strong knowledge of export documentation (BLs, invoices, AES/ITN, phytosanitary, etc.)
• Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office; familiarity with booking platforms like Navisphere a plus
• Excellent communication, follow-up, and organizational skills
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple time-sensitive tasks
• Knowledge of INCOTERMS and international shipping regulations preferred
• Experience in agricultural or commodity exports is a plus
• High Aptitude for Technology

Benefits Offered:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and RX benefits
• Company paid Life Insurance and Disability
• Flexible Spending Plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401K Retirement savings plan
• Paid Holidays, Vacation and Sick leave

Successful completion of initial and ongoing employment screens, including but not limited to criminal background and vehicle record as required.

Columbia Grain is an Equal Opportunity Employer