Senior Freight & Logistics Specialist

Talascend is currently seeking a Senior Freight & Logistics Specialist for a direct hire opportunity with our client in Kansas City, Missouri.

Overview

The role involves leading the execution and coordination of transportation needs for project-related cargo, ensuring compliance with global trade regulations, and facilitating communication between stakeholders. The specialist will deliver efficient domestic and international project logistics support services.

Responsibilities

• Lead the coordination of multi-modal transportation bookings and shipments for a diverse range of cargo.
• Manage export, import, and domestic logistics seamlessly while keeping all stakeholders informed.
• Collaborate with suppliers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers to facilitate smooth transportation across borders.
• Provide insights into shipping costs and logistics performance to support management initiatives.
• Source, qualify, negotiate, and maintain master agreements with select suppliers of transportation and logistics services.
• Participate in estimating and 'front end planning' proposal needs of projects by conducting transportation studies.
• Develop, optimize and facilitate project-specific transportation and logistics plans.
• Establish, coordinate, and execute scheduled project transportation and logistics activities with selected service providers.
• Proactively monitor and ensure timely, complete delivery of freight through consistent follow-up and tracking processes.
• Establish and maintain excellent communication with shipper, carrier, and consignee.
• Recommend and implement new or enhanced logistics systems.
• Execute and publish reports as appropriate.
• Analyze carrier performance trends and implement practices to enhance cost containment and cost avoidance.
• Identify problems and implement appropriate solutions in a timely manner.
• Answer and resolve billing questions as required.
• Solicit quotes and approve purchase releases for transportation and logistics services.
• Execute routine and periodic audits of freight invoices.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and instruction to less experienced staff.
• Responsible for QA/QC process adherence.
• Responsible for compliance with company and site safety policies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor Degree in supply chain, business management, logistics, or a related field and 7 years experience in transportation and logistics management required OR Associate Degree and 9 years experience in transportation and logistics management require OR High School Diploma/GED and 11 years experience in transportation and logistics management required
• Previous experience in transportation of engineered or fabricated equipment, in support of heavy industrial projects.
• Solid understanding of transportation contract terms and conditions and the ability to negotiate rate and service contracts.
• Understanding of and experience with Import/Export compliance issues as well as international freight and logistics.
• Possess solid transportation industry contacts and relationships.
• Ability to be an effective liaison between project teams, suppliers, and transportation and logistics service providers.
• Conceptual understanding and working knowledge of CTL, Haz Mat, I.A.T.A., IMDG, and DOT.
• Strong foundational knowledge of the transportation industry contacts and relationships.
• Strong ability to multi-task on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of Incoterms and knowledge of importing and exporting across global borders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
• Written and verbal communication skills and strong organizational skills.
• Proficient computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and Access).
• Must be able to meet the company's driving requirements.