Ocean Export Agent - job 1 of 2

As an Ocean Export Agent at Expeditors, your key responsibilities include ensuring the timely and accurate movement of freight, managing export files, and providing excellent customer service. You'll log shipments into our operational system and utilize the Ocean Export Workboard for daily management of your responsibilities. You'll also track and trace ocean export files and ensure accurate billing for clients and vendors, all while adhering to our operational KPIs.

To qualify for the Ocean Export Agent position at Expeditors, you need a high school degree or equivalent. Proficiency in English, both written and verbal, is essential, along with basic mathematical skills. While it's preferable to have previous experience in ocean freight, good computer skills in Microsoft Word and Excel would also be beneficial. Lastly, you should be able to work independently and as part of a team while managing multiple tasks effectively.

Successful Ocean Export Agents at Expeditors should possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication capabilities. You should be analytical, proactive, and comfortable managing complex data. The ability to multitask while staying focused and organized in a professional environment is crucial when ensuring deadlines are met and exceptional customer service is delivered.

At Expeditors, the work environment for Ocean Export Agents is collaborative and dynamic. You’ll be part of a supportive team that values professionalism and fosters a friendly atmosphere. We encourage growth and provide ample opportunities for personal and professional development, ensuring you have all the resources needed to succeed in your role.

Expeditors offers a competitive benefits package for Ocean Export Agents, which includes paid vacation and sick time, health insurance plans, life insurance, and a robust employee stock purchase plan. Additionally, we provide training programs, development opportunities, and an excellent employee referral program to promote a rewarding career journey.

When answering this question, focus on specific experiences from previous roles that relate to ocean freight. Highlight any relevant tasks you undertook, like managing shipments, coordinating with vendors, or adhering to operational KPIs. Provide concrete examples of challenges faced and how you successfully overcame them.

Use this opportunity to describe your organizational methods. Mention the tools or systems you’ve used to manage your workload effectively, such as task lists, scheduling software, or prioritization techniques. Show how you remain calm under pressure and ensure deadlines are met.

Think of a specific example that showcases your commitment to customer service. Detail the situation, your actions, and the outcome. Be sure to emphasize your interpersonal skills and ability to resolve issues effectively, as this aligns with the expectations of an Ocean Export Agent at Expeditors.

Discuss your approach to communication, ensuring you cover both verbal and written skills. Mention the importance of clarity and feedback and how you adapt your communication style to fit your audience to ensure everyone remains on the same page.

Explain your proactive approach to identifying potential delays, communicating with all relevant parties, and adjusting plans accordingly. Illustrate your problem-solving skills by providing examples of how you’ve successfully managed delays in the past.

Mention specific software or systems you have used in logistics or export management, such as tracking tools, CRM software, or Excel. Highlight your ability to quickly learn new tools, which is essential in the logistics industry.

Demonstrating knowledge of KPIs is essential for this role. Talk about metrics like shipment accuracy, delivery times, and customer satisfaction scores. Discuss how focusing on these KPIs can improve overall service and operational efficiency.

This is an opportunity to show your resilience and stress management techniques. Talk about maintaining work-life balance, utilizing time management skills, and engaging with your team to support each other during high-pressure times.

Describe a project where teamwork was crucial. Focus on your role within the group, how you contributed to achieving goals, and any challenges the team faced that were overcome by working together. Effective collaboration is key to success in logistics roles.

This is a chance to express your enthusiasm for the logistics industry and for Expeditors specifically. Discuss any connections you have to the company’s values, mission, and community-focused culture. Highlight how this role aligns with your career goals and aspirations.