Imports Associate

Summary: The Import Associate Support the Import Freight team with key logistics tasks, including managing ocean freight rate requests, entering and comparing rates, and resolving discrepancies in freight invoices. Maintain accurate carrier statements and ensure accounts remain in good standing. Assist with booking issues and destination changes from the product team and overseas suppliers/vendors.

Work Hours: Monday to Friday from 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM, 2 Saturday(s) a month from 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Seniority Level: Associate

Employment Type: Full-time

Compensation: This hourly, non-exempt position pays from $22 to $25 per hour, with overtime compensated at 1.5 times the base rate. New hires usually earn between $57,800 and $65,600 annually, or more, depending on experience, overtime hours, and bonuses.

To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to complete the following essential duties and responsibilities:

• Manage rate requests and keep all shipping records up to date.
• Troubleshoot freight and OBL (Ocean Bill of Lading) related issues.
• Review, approve, and process accounts payable freight invoices.
• Maintain accounts payable statements with shipping lines and freight forwarders.
• Assist with booking challenges and destination changes.
• Support Senior Associates and Management with additional assigned tasks.

Additionally the candidate must meet the following Education and/or Experience requirements:

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum Three (3) years of experience in International Logistics of Ocean Import shipment related
• Ability to communicate with shipping lines, US Customs, Port's Terminals, Trucking Companies and Freight Forwarders
• Able to analyze data related to costs and offer better options
• Knowledge or exposure to dealing with carrier contracts, as well as handling all surcharges such as bunker, low sulfur, and more
• Clear communication with the ability to use positive language
• Attentiveness and being able to work under pressure
• Proven ability to handle multiple tasks at once
• Goal oriented focus
• Good mathematical skills; ability to do calculations quickly
• Demonstrated experience with the use of PCs, along with the ability to navigate in a multi-window-based environment.
• Proficient in MS Outlook, Word and advance in Excel (preferred)

This role has the following physical demands:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use their hands to handle objects, tools, or controls; reach with their hands and arms; and communicate verbally. The employee frequently walks, stands and occasionally sits.
• The employee must occasionally lift, pull and move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

Benefits: MSI offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Referral, Holiday, and Annual Bonuses
• Annual pay increases
• Paid Time Off
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Company-paid Short Term and Long Term disability
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Traditional and Roth 401(k) plans with company matching contributions
• Charitable donation matching programs
• Free, company-sponsored 1-on-1 tutoring for children/dependents of MSI employees in grades k-12, including free tutoring for SAT and ACT tests

About MSI: Founded in 1975, MSI is a leading supplier of flooring tile, countertops, wall and backsplash tile and hardscaping surfaces products in North America. Headquartered in Orange, California, MSI also maintains over 50 state-of-the-art showroom and distribution centers across the U.S. and Canada. MSI's product line includes an extensive offering of Granite, Quartz, Porcelain, Luxury Vinyl flooring, Slate, Marble, Travertine, Sandstone, Limestone, Quartzite, onyx, stacked stone and pavers imported from over 36 countries on six continents.

Over the years, MSI has been the recipient of many prestigious awards including:

• Top 5 fastest growing companies - OC Business Journal
• Supplier Diversity Award - Home Depot
• #1 Flooring Distributor multiple years in a row - Floor Covering Weekly
• Top Workplaces Award winner multiple times - Top Workplaces
• MSI Founder named the Entrepreneur of the Year - Ernst and Young

MSI is an equal opportunity employer that celebrates diversity and fosters inclusion and belonging for all employees. We provide a work environment that allows all employees to do their best work, free from all forms of discrimination. No employee or applicant will be discriminated against on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, citizenship status, military status, religion, disability status, or any other legally protected group. MSI provides reasonable accommodations for all employees and applicants. If you believe you require an accommodation, please speak with your recruiter or a member of our HR team.