We are seeking an experienced Air & Sea Freight Operator with a minimum of 2 years' Dangerous Goods experience to join our Heathrow-based operations team.
This role will suit a freight forwarding professional who is confident handling both import and export shipments across air and sea freight, with a strong understanding of hazardous cargo regulations and compliance requirements. You will be responsible for managing shipments from booking through to final delivery, ensuring operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and outstanding customer service.
Key ResponsibilitiesFreight Operations
- Coordinate and manage air and sea freight import and export shipments from start to finish.
- Arrange bookings with airlines, shipping lines, hauliers, and overseas agents.
- Monitor shipments and proactively manage any delays or service issues.
- Ensure customer requirements and deadlines are met.
Dangerous Goods Management
- Handle Dangerous Goods shipments in accordance with IATA DGR and IMDG regulations.
- Review Dangerous Goods documentation, declarations, packing instructions, and compliance requirements.
- Liaise with airlines, carriers, warehouses, and customers regarding hazardous cargo acceptance and movement.
- Ensure all Dangerous Goods shipments meet regulatory and carrier requirements before departure.
Documentation & Compliance
- Prepare and review AWBs, Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and customs documentation.
- Ensure compliance with customs regulations, international trade requirements, and Incoterms.
- Maintain accurate shipment records and operational files.
- Liaise with customs brokers and other stakeholders to facilitate smooth clearance processes.
Customer Service
- Act as a primary point of contact for customers and overseas partners.
- Provide shipment updates and resolve operational queries promptly.
- Build strong working relationships with customers, suppliers, and agents.
- Deliver a high standard of customer service at all times.
Commercial & Financial Responsibilities
- Obtain freight rates and negotiate with suppliers where required.
- Check supplier invoices and ensure accurate cost allocation.
- Prepare shipments for billing and ensure timely invoicing.
- Identify opportunities to improve profitability and operational efficiency.
RequirementsEssential
- Minimum 2 years' experience handling Dangerous Goods shipments within a freight forwarding environment.
- Experience managing both air freight and sea freight imports and exports.
- Strong understanding of IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.
- Knowledge of customs procedures, shipping documentation, and international freight operations.
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong communication and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced freight forwarding environment.
Desirable
- Current or previous IATA Dangerous Goods certification.
- Experience with freight forwarding software such as CargoWise, Sequoia, ASM, CCS-UK, or similar systems.
- Multimodal freight forwarding experience.
- Experience working with major airlines and shipping lines operating through Heathrow.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for a proactive freight forwarding professional who can confidently manage Dangerous Goods shipments while maintaining exceptional service levels. The successful candidate will be highly organised, commercially aware, and capable of handling complex international movements with minimal supervision.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing freight forwarding business and play a key role in its air and sea freight operations.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £30,000.00-£32,000.00 per year
Experience:
- Dangerous goods: 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person
