Container Logistics Specialist

Job Title:  Container Logistics Specialist (temporary basis) 

Department:  Corporate office (Portland) 

Reports To:  Container Logistics Manager 

Organizational Background 

Columbia Grain International, LLC is a global leader in the origination, processing, logistics and distribution of high-quality bulk grains, pulses, edible beans, oilseeds, and organics for domestic and worldwide export markets. Our vertically integrated company is headquartered in Portland, OR, and we own and operate over 60 facilities including grain elevators and pulse processing plants across WA, ID, MT, NE, and ND. 

At all levels of our organization, our employees are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable in the industry. We've spent over 40 years cultivating lasting partnerships with a wide network of producers and the local communities surrounding our facilities, which enables us to source the highest quality product to fulfill our mission of feeding the world. 

Position Description 

The Container Logistics Specialist plays a key role in the coordination and execution of international container shipments. This position supports the efficient movement of commodities via ocean, rail, and truck, from origin to final destination. Working closely with internal teams and external partners, the Container Logistics Specialist ensures timely, accurate, and cost-effective transportation operations. 

This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously. 

Primary Duties and Responsibilities  

• Monitor and manage shipment flow to port locations and arrange container bookings as needed. 

• Enter and maintain accurate Ocean Booking Data in ERP. 

• Coordinate transportation schedules and routing for outbound container shipments from warehouse to final destination. 

• Provide accurate transload, booking, and other instructions to third-party service providers and vendors. 

• Oversee booking lifecycle, including tracking transit times, handling changes such as updates, rolls, splits, cancellations, or diversions. 

• Collaborate with the forwarding team to ensure all required paperwork is completed for SSL shipping instructions. 

• Manage containerized pulse and grain shipments, collaborating with Merchandisers and Facility Managers to ensure on-time and accurate delivery to end customers. 

• Maintain and update transportation rate sheets and all-in rate reports with precision. 

• Assist Container Logistics Manager in communications with steamship lines (SSLs), transloaders, and third-party logistics providers (3PLs). 

• Assist with claims processing related to transloaders and ocean carriers. 

• Assist with monitoring, managing, and customs clearing inventory levels at transload facilities. 

• Compile analytics and reports on volume projections, shipment execution, and route optimization. 

• Perform other logistics and administrative duties as assigned. 

Required Skills, Knowledge, Education and Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain or related field. 

• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. 

• Strong conceptual and problem-solving skills to evaluate problems and apply knowledge to identify appropriate solutions; ability to resolve issues effectively and efficiently. 

• Strong data entry skills. 

• Proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite, Excel and other transportation software. 

• Good work ethic (team environment, both safe and quality), efficient and willingness to perform all required work with good attendance. 

Benefits Offered  

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and RX benefits 

• Company paid Life Insurance and Disability 

• Flexible Spending Plans 

• Employee Assistance Program 

• 401K Retirement savings plan 

• Paid Holidays, Vacation and Sick leave 

Successful completion of initial and ongoing employment screens, including but not limited to criminal background and vehicle record as required. 

Columbia Grain is an Equal Opportunity Employer