Shipping & Logistics Specialist

Role: Shipping & Logistics Specialist

Location: Nelson BC

Reports To: Supply Chain Manager

Direct Reports: N/A

Role Status: Full-time Permanent

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Date of Last Review: July 2026

Role Overview

The Shipping & Logistics Specialist is responsible for managing domestic and international transportation activities to support production project execution and client delivery requirements. The role acts as the primary point of contact for carriers freight brokers customs brokers and internal teams ensuring the efficient cost-effective and compliant movement of goods.

Working closely with Supply Chain digital planning manufacturing and fabrication teams the Shipping & Logistics Specialist oversees shipments from planning through to delivery including documentation accuracy carrier coordination and issue resolution. The role also plays a key part in developing and maintaining logistics and customs processes with a focus on standardization SOP development and continuous improvement.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Freight Planning & Scheduling

• Build and maintain inbound/outbound truck schedules coordinating pickup and delivery windows with carriers and internal stakeholders
• Track active shipments and escalate delays proactively
• Optimize load consolidation to reduce per-unit freight cost
• Coordinate with Supply Chain manufacturing and fabrication and project teams to align shipment readiness with carrier availability
• Manage spot freight bookings when regular carriers cant cover capacity or destination

Trade Compliance & Documentation

• Prepare and review all cross-border documentation: commercial invoices bills of lading CUSMA certificates of origin packing lists shippers export declarations
• Coordinate with customs brokers on entry filing classification questions and any holds or examinations
• Maintain a document retention system compliant with customs audit requirements
• Maintain current working knowledge of Canada-US customs regulations including CUSMA rules of origin tariff classifications Section 232 on steel and metal contents and duty rates
• Monitor regulatory changes (CBP CBSA CFIA where applicable) and brief internal stakeholders on impacts
• Identify duty minimization opportunities: tariff classification first sale valuation free trade agreement eligibility

Carrier & Vendor Management

• Maintain the approved carrier list and conduct periodic performance reviews (on-time damage rate responsiveness)
• Negotiate rates and service terms with carriers brokers etc.
• Serve as primary point of contact for day-to-day carrier communication
• Escalate and resolve freight claims (damage delay etc.)
• Onboard new carriers: qualification insurance verification contract execution

Procurement & Invoice Control

• Issue purchase requests for freight and logistics services
• Three-way match: PO service confirmation and invoice before approving payment
• Identify and dispute billing errors accessorial charges or rate discrepancies
• Maintain accurate freight cost data to support budget tracking and reporting

Reporting Process Improvement & Continuous Development

• Track KPIs including freight cost per shipment on-time delivery rate claims frequency and carrier scorecards
• Flag cost overruns or service failures and recommend corrective action
• Support supply chain team with data for contract renewals or carrier changes
• Contribute to the development and documentation of SOPs for all logistics and customs processes

Core Competencies

• Innovation & Problem-Solving - applies creative thinking to solve work challenges by combining traditional methods with new approaches. Actively seeks opportunities to improve processes and outcomes within their area of expertise
• Technical Excellence & Craft Mastery - maintains high standards of technical skill and craftsmanship in their specialized area. Continuously develops expertise whether in design fabrication finishing operations supply chain or finance
• Collaborative Partnership & Communication - works effectively with others through clear communication and knowledge sharing. Builds strong working relationships with colleagues clients and partners based on trust and mutual support
• Long-term Stewardship & Responsibility - prioritizes safety and invests in developing future capabilities and relationships
• Ownership & Continuous Growth - takes responsibility for work outcomes and commitments while maintaining focus on growth and improvement. Demonstrates reliability and proactive communication while seeking opportunities

Qualifications Knowledge Skills Attributes

• Post-secondary education in Supply Chain Management Logistics International Trade Business Administration or a related field
• Minimum 5 years of experience in transportation logistics freight coordination supply chain operations or a related role
• Experience coordinating domestic and international freight movements across multiple transportation modes including extensive cross-border shipments between Canada and the United States
• Working knowledge of customs regulations tariff classifications trade compliance requirements and free trade agreements such as CUSMA
• Strong understanding of transportation documentation freight procurement and shipment execution processes
• Experience working with freight carriers customs brokers and third-party logistics providers
• Excellent communication and relationship-management skills
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines

Schedule and Working Conditions

• Ability to work 08:30-17:00 Monday to Friday with a 30-minute unpaid lunch break
• Ability to work on-site at Spearhead headquarters
• Manual dexterity to operate a computer and other common office equipment on a daily basis
• Ability to work sitting or standing at a desk for work shifts

Compensation

• Pay range is $75k-$85k commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Extended Health and Dental benefits
• Weekly Indemnity Insurance
• Group Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP)

Statement of Inclusion

Spearhead is committed to fostering a culture of diversity equity and inclusion. The unique experiences talents and perspectives of our employees drive our success and contribute to both our culture and reputation. We believe that embracing diversity and inclusion is essential to attracting developing and retaining a talented workforce. By prioritizing these principles we enhance innovation improve problem-solving and strengthen company performance. Our commitment to diversity ensures that every individuals contributions are valued empowering us to achieve sustainable success and continued growth.

Required Experience:

IC