Import Export Operation Manager
El Segundo, California, United States
Import Export Operation Manager - Japanese Bilingual - Minimum 7 Years of Experience in Freight Forwarding
We are seeking an Operations Specialist/Coordinator to support day-to-day freight forwarding operations during the U.S. launch phase. This role will work closely with the U.S. Director and collaborate with Japan headquarters and the Thailand team.
Key Responsibilities
- Handle day-to-day freight forwarding operations (Ocean / Air / Import / Export)
- Coordinate shipments, documentation, and delivery schedules
- Communicate with customers, vendors, carriers, and overseas offices
- Monitor shipment status and resolve operational issues as they arise
- Support operational process setup during the U.S. branch launch phase
- Assist with internal coordination and reporting as needed
Required Qualifications
- Experience in freight forwarding or logistics operations (flexible depending on skill set)
- Basic to solid knowledge of Ocean and/or Air Import & Export operations
- Business-level English communication skills (required)
- Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
- Ability to work on-site in the Los Angeles area
Preferred Qualifications
- Minimum 7 years of logistics or freight forwarding experience
- Experience handling both import and export operations
- Japanese language skills or familiarity with Japanese business culture
- Experience working with overseas offices or international clients
Ideal Candidate Profile
We are looking for someone who:
- Is detail-oriented and reliable in daily operations
- Communicates clearly and proactively
- Is comfortable asking questions and seeking clarification
- Takes responsibility and follows through on tasks
- Enjoys working in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
- Can adapt to change in a growing, launch-phase organization
Compensation & Benefits (Indicative)
- Salary: $75K-$90K (DOE)
- Standard business hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Potential flexibility in work style as the organization grows
- Benefits to be discussed (health insurance, PTO, etc.)
Our Vision
To be a Knot that connects people and nations— bridging Japan and the United States by supporting sustainable business and cross-border collaboration.
Why Join Us
- Be part of a U.S. business launch from an early stage
- Work closely with leadership and gain broad operational exposure
- Grow with a global logistics company that values communication and trust