Import Export Specialist
Sakata Seed America, Inc., Woodland, California, United States, 95776
Job Summary
The Import/Export Specialist has an understanding of import and export regulations, customs procedures, and logistics management to ensure efficient and compliant movement of vegetable and flower seeds across borders. This role requires strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, the ability to navigate complex trade requirements, and work cross-functionally across multiple teams.
Responsibilities Import Logistics
Coordinate import processes for seeds, including coordinating shipments, customs clearance, and compliance with import regulations.
Ensure timely arrival of seed shipments, resolving any customs delays or issues to minimize impact on supply chain operations.
Classify seeds according to regulatory standards and ensure accurate documentation and labeling compliance.
Collaborate with seed suppliers and growers to forecast import needs and coordinate logistics accordingly.
Monitor inventory levels and coordinate storage of imported seeds to meet demand forecasts.
Stay updated on changes in import regulations and trade policies affecting the seed industry, communicating implications to relevant stakeholders.
Export Logistics
Organize export processes for seeds, including documentation preparation, customs declarations, and compliance with export controls.
Ensure compliance with phytosanitary requirements and other regulatory standards for seed exports.
Monitor export shipment statuses and resolve any issues related to customs clearance or transportation delays.
Prepare export documentation such as certificates of origin, packing lists, and invoices as per regulatory requirements.
General Responsibilities
Maintain close working relationships with USDA County Agriculture Inspectors.
Maintain records of critical documentation pertaining to seed trade, including phytosanitary certificates, field inspections, and lab analysis certificates.
Collaborate cross-functionally with production, operations, sales, quality assurance, and regulatory affairs teams to streamline processes and resolve issues.
Apply for and maintain current APHIS/USDA Import Permits, Insurance Bonds, Certifications, Powers of Attorneys, Importer Security Filings (ISF), NAFTA agreements, and manage PCIT expenses.
Monitor USDA's PCIT system for issuing Export and Re-Export Phytosanitary Certificates for international and state shipments.
Qualifications
BA or BS in Agriculture, Business Administration, or equivalent experience.
Minimum of 2 years of experience in import/export operations within a global or multinational environment.
Knowledge of customs regulations, export controls, and international trade compliance.
Proven ability to manage multiple shipments simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.
Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel or other data analysis tools.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with internal teams and external partners.
Familiarity with ERP systems and logistics software (e.g., D365, Oracle) is a plus.
Ability to work under strict time constraints and requirements.
Highly Preferred
Bi‑lingual (English/Spanish).
Seed industry experience.
Physical Demands
Must be able to type and/or work at a computer terminal for long periods of time.
Must be able to sit for long periods of time.
Benefits Health & Wellness
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
Monthly Wellness Stipend
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Disability Insurance (plans vary by location)
Financial Benefits
401(k) Program + Company Match
Profit Sharing Program (via 401(k)
Holiday Bonus
Performance Incentive Bonus Program
Tuition Reimbursement
529 College‑Savings Plan
Company‑Paid Basic Life & AD&D Insurance
Time Off & Flexibility
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
14 Paid Company Holidays
2 Floating Holidays
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty (as described above) satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
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Responsibilities Import Logistics
Coordinate import processes for seeds, including coordinating shipments, customs clearance, and compliance with import regulations.
Ensure timely arrival of seed shipments, resolving any customs delays or issues to minimize impact on supply chain operations.
Classify seeds according to regulatory standards and ensure accurate documentation and labeling compliance.
Collaborate with seed suppliers and growers to forecast import needs and coordinate logistics accordingly.
Monitor inventory levels and coordinate storage of imported seeds to meet demand forecasts.
Stay updated on changes in import regulations and trade policies affecting the seed industry, communicating implications to relevant stakeholders.
Export Logistics
Organize export processes for seeds, including documentation preparation, customs declarations, and compliance with export controls.
Ensure compliance with phytosanitary requirements and other regulatory standards for seed exports.
Monitor export shipment statuses and resolve any issues related to customs clearance or transportation delays.
Prepare export documentation such as certificates of origin, packing lists, and invoices as per regulatory requirements.
General Responsibilities
Maintain close working relationships with USDA County Agriculture Inspectors.
Maintain records of critical documentation pertaining to seed trade, including phytosanitary certificates, field inspections, and lab analysis certificates.
Collaborate cross-functionally with production, operations, sales, quality assurance, and regulatory affairs teams to streamline processes and resolve issues.
Apply for and maintain current APHIS/USDA Import Permits, Insurance Bonds, Certifications, Powers of Attorneys, Importer Security Filings (ISF), NAFTA agreements, and manage PCIT expenses.
Monitor USDA's PCIT system for issuing Export and Re-Export Phytosanitary Certificates for international and state shipments.
Qualifications
BA or BS in Agriculture, Business Administration, or equivalent experience.
Minimum of 2 years of experience in import/export operations within a global or multinational environment.
Knowledge of customs regulations, export controls, and international trade compliance.
Proven ability to manage multiple shipments simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.
Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Excel or other data analysis tools.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with internal teams and external partners.
Familiarity with ERP systems and logistics software (e.g., D365, Oracle) is a plus.
Ability to work under strict time constraints and requirements.
Highly Preferred
Bi‑lingual (English/Spanish).
Seed industry experience.
Physical Demands
Must be able to type and/or work at a computer terminal for long periods of time.
Must be able to sit for long periods of time.
Benefits Health & Wellness
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
Monthly Wellness Stipend
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Disability Insurance (plans vary by location)
Financial Benefits
401(k) Program + Company Match
Profit Sharing Program (via 401(k)
Holiday Bonus
Performance Incentive Bonus Program
Tuition Reimbursement
529 College‑Savings Plan
Company‑Paid Basic Life & AD&D Insurance
Time Off & Flexibility
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
14 Paid Company Holidays
2 Floating Holidays
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty (as described above) satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
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