Artech is the Pacific Northwest's premier fine arts handling and collection management firm. Artech provides our clients access to a global network of industry professionals and is a leader in the field of art handling specializing in the latest, state-of-the-art techniques for the preservation of art investments. Artech's long-standing reputation of quality and professionalism in fine art services is world renowned.

Shipping and Logistics Specialist

As a key member of the Transportation Department, the Shipping and Logistics Specialist position works with the Project Management and Logistics teams and with cross-functional teams to provide subject matter expertise for domestic shipping and execution of international shipments. The Shipping and Logistics Specialist is responsible for the success of Artech shipments or sub-projects within larger engagements. This role interacts with Project Managers and vendors to plan and execute freight movements, and in support of client shipping needs. The Shipping and Logistics Specialist also interacts with clients to arrange for collection, documentation, booking and estimating client shipments.

Responsibilities:
Vendor Relations
  • Identifies, qualifies and establishes strategic relationships with logistics vendors, including customs brokers, freight forwarders, air, ground and ocean carriers, art logistics companies and other 3rd party logistics providers. Coordinates 3rd party scope delivery and ensures competitive pricing of logistics services.
  • Establishes and communicates performance standards and expectations for logistics vendors. Tracks and evaluates vendor performance to meet Artech standards and continuously improve shipping processes.
  • Serves as the primary point of contact for shipping industry associations and partners. Develops strategic partnerships with vendors, improves service delivery, lower costs and improve efficiency of shipping operations.
  • Coordinates vendor payments, purchase orders and/or agreements in accordance with company policies.


Shipping Execution
  • Arranges pick-up and delivery of both inbound and outbound shipments. Responsible for tracking and communicating shipments, status and schedule to clients, crews, vendors and other internal and external stakeholders.
  • Coordinates shipment security, including following U.S. Transportation Security Administration screened cargo custody procedures, interfacing with port police and real-time tracking and monitoring of shipments and cargo movement.
  • Tracks and reports shipping expenses. Collects and reports data for efficiency metrics, such as estimate accuracy, schedule performance and throughput.
  • Continuously improves logistics services processes. Collaborates with cross-functional team members to improve organizational processes, develop workflows and improve service delivery.
  • Completes, collects and follows up on daily Bills of Lading, Airway Bills, import/export documentation, chain of custody, legal, insurance and regulatory documentation (DOT, CBP, TSA, etc). Organizes, files and retains job-related documentation in compliance with applicable regulation and company policies.


  • Identifies, analyzes and tracks risks and issues with shipments. Proactively plans and takes action to avoid risks and resolve issues with clients, internal stakeholders and vendors.
  • Develops knowledge and expertise in domestic and international shipping processes, regulations and industry standards.
  • Serves as Alternate Security Coordinator for the company. Performs monthly reports and quarterly audits, submitting results to the Principal Security Coordinator. Reviews and controls results of audits, taking corrective action for any instance of non-compliance.
  • Develops subject matter expertise in Art Logistics topics such as: Domestic Shipping, Insurance, Security, International Shipping, or other assigned areas.



Client Relations
  • Proactively manages relationships and expectations with specific clients. Responds to client concerns and inquiries to resolve issues promptly and ensure client satisfaction.
  • Develops, writes and submits commercial documents such as accurate estimates, proposals and invoices to the client in compliance with existing company policies and procedures. Negotiates with client to gain written approval of estimates and contracts.
  • Works with the scheduling team to identify and schedule crew, vehicles and equipment needed to execute jobs within project time and budget constraints.
  • Produces timely and accurate estimates to internal and external customers for 3rd party domestic and international shipping, customs brokerage fees, shuttle and express services and simple installation, storage and transport jobs.
  • Serves as a liaison to the client for shipping projects as required. Works with project managers to confirm client bookings via email or phone.
  • Coordinates client billing and collection in accordance with company policies. Tracks and ensures timely payment of invoices by following up regularly with clients about overdue invoices.



Qualifications:
• 2+ years of experience in logistics, transportation, warehousing or related field
• 2+ years of experience working in an office environment
• Intermediate to advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Outlook and Word
• Ability to work as part of a team, independently and in cross-functional teams
• Ability to build and maintain interpersonal relationships with co-workers and clients
• Experience implementing process improvements in a logistics environment preferred
• Experience or education in fine arts industry preferred
• Travel between 0-10%

How to apply
If a key role in the fine art logistics and management industry interests you, please review the responsibilities and qualifications carefully. If you feel that you are the ideal candidate for this position, please email your resume and cover letter explaining your interest and experience to Recruiting@artechseattle.com

Learn more at http://artechseattle.com/