Seattle Cargo Coordinator

Seattle, WA, United States

Full Time - Seasonal

Job Summary

The Seattle Cargo Coordinator will play a crucial role in ensuring our cargo handling activities' smooth and efficient operation at the Seattle Terminal. Responsibilities include coordinating freight operations, procuring shipping equipment, operating forklifts and other machinery, receiving, documentation, manifesting, securing & loading all cargo related to the operational voyage schedule. The role requires a highly organized, detail-oriented professional who can manage a high-volume, fast-paced cargo environment, maintain effective communication with various stakeholders, and uphold our standards of excellence in logistics and customer service. Additionally, serves as a liaison between the Seattle Terminal, and Bowhead Transports Cargo Operations team. This role is key in maintaining safety standards, conducting training sessions, and fostering a respectful work environment. Travel and site inspections will be limited but may be required depending on operational needs.

$50K-$80K DOE

Primary Duties & Responsibilities (and other duties as assigned)

• Ensure adherence to Bowhead Transport's policies and standards, representing the company's interests positively and constructively.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, City, State, and Federal regulations governing cargo operations.
• Oversee the receiving process for incoming cargo, ensuring all items are accurately logged, inspected for damage, stickered, and stored in designated areas within the terminal.
• Coordinate the loading of cargo onto barges, ensuring that all items are loaded according to the stowage plan and properly secured to prevent movement during transit.
• Maintain comprehensive records within the operational system of all cargo transactions, including weight, dimensions, and special handling requirements.
• Act as a point of contact for customers, addressing inquiries about cargo status, shipment schedules, and delivery times.
• Handle customer complaints and issues with professionalism and efficiency, working to resolve any problems swiftly while maintaining positive customer relationships.
• Continuously seek ways to improve customer service and cargo handling processes to enhance the overall customer experience.
• Maintain open lines of communication with other internal teams to ensure seamless coordination of cargo activities.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, including bills of lading, manifests, inventory reports, and other required documentation from the company’s operating system.
• Generate regular reports on cargo movements, operational performance, and any issues encountered, providing insights to management for decision-making.
• Ensure all cargo handling activities comply with company policies, safety regulations, and maritime laws.
• Conduct regular inspections of cargo handling processes, equipment, and storage areas to identify and address potential safety hazards
• Assist the Cargo Operations Manager in developing barge operation plans by coordinating with various departments to optimize efficiency and resource utilization.
• Support the implementation of process improvements to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Work closely with warehouse staff, terminal staff, truck drivers, customers, and operations personnel to coordinate seamless cargo operations.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment by encouraging teamwork, open communication, and mutual respect among team members.
• Provide guidance and support to team members, helping them develop their skills and achieve their professional goals. Serve as a mentor and role model for junior staff.
• Purchase/lease shipping equipment such as flats, containers, rigging, and lashing materials required for cargo operations, and directed by the Cargo Operations Manager or Director of Operations
• Operate equipment as needed and perform lashing to secure cargo safely during loading and unloading operations.
• Participate in spill response clean-up efforts to mitigate environmental hazards and maintain regulatory compliance.
• Maintain clear and concise radio communication with team members and other stakeholders to coordinate activities and ensure operational safety.
• Undertake travel as directed by Bowhead Management to fulfill responsibilities and duties as required.
• Oversee loading, unloading, and securing of cargo on land and vessels, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Coordinate cargo loading/offloading at the S schedules with sales department and management to optimize resource utilization and meet customer demands.
• Provide timely update reports to Bowhead Management regarding Seattle cargo operations.
• Assist customers with cargo loading and handling inquiries, ensuring prompt and professional assistance in alignment with customer service standards.
• Facilitate any additional tasks associated with the primary responsibilities of the cargo manager to support organizational objectives.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Maritime Studies, or a related field is preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in cargo operations, logistics management, or maritime transportation, preferably in a barge company or similar maritime industry.
• Proven experience in coordinating freight operations and logistics for remote coastal communities, particularly in Alaska.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements governing maritime transportation, including OSHA, Coast Guard regulations, and local environmental regulations.
• Proficiency in utilizing cargo tracking and inventory management systems.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with internal teams, clients, and regulatory authorities.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and best practices in cargo handling, including spill response protocols.
• Willingness to travel to remote coastal communities in Alaska and adapt to challenging working conditions.
• Problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to addressing technical challenges.
• Possess a valid Driver’s License.
• Residents of Seattle, WA or the surrounding area are preferred.

Physical & Environmental Demands

The work environment varies and includes, but is not limited to, docks, ports, bays, beaches, waterways, office space, equipment rooms, warehouse space, construction zones, and outdoor environments. Work hours may fluctuate outside of regular duty hours. While performing the duties of this job, the individual is:

• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, which may extend beyond standard office hours (8-5), particularly during the primary operating season (April – October), with many weeks exceeding 50 hours.
• Willingness to travel to remote locations across Alaska for extended periods.
• Regularly required to sit for prolonged periods at a desk or workspace utilizing computer phones and office supplies.
• Required to sit for prolonged periods during travel by plane or automobile.
• Frequently required to stand and walk and routinely required to reach with hands and arms.
• Routinely required to stand, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and squat.
• Frequently lifts and moves up to 50 pounds and occasionally lifts and moves up to 75 pounds.
• Occasionally lifts and moves 75 pounds with the assistance of others and mechanical lifting equipment. 
• Ability to remain composed under pressure and handle the mental and physical demands, working in potentially hazardous situations and unpredictable weather conditions.

About Bowhead Transport & the UIC Corporation

UIC is one of Alaska’s most prominent companies with 4,000 employees and fifty-four subsidiaries; UIC is proud of our expanding operations, which currently span over twenty-five different industries and business lines throughout most of the United States and in many foreign countries. UIC and its subsidiaries are committed to and strive for safety, quality, business ethics, and shareholder values.  Bowhead Transport is the Northwest Marine division of the UIC organization.  Our diverse fleet of vessels provides our customers with comprehensive marine solutions in challenging environments throughout Alaska. 

Headquartered in Anchorage, AK, Bowhead Transport Company offers competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, short/long term disability, and 401(k) retirement plans, as well as paid time off programs for eligible full-time employees.

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