03 Aug
|
Spearhead
|
Nelson
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 can't 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, shipper's 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 recent 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 individual’s contributions are valued, empowering us to achieve sustainable success and continued growth.
📌 Shipping & Logistics Specialist (Nelson)
🏢 Spearhead
📍 Nelson