Operations Specialist Jobs in Illinois

It's more than a job

As a member of the Freight Forwarding team Kuehne+Nagel, you will play a key role in transporting goods, optimising processes, and fulfilling our customers' promises. And by transporting medicines, toys and important machine parts, you are not only delivering goods, you are making small and big moments possible for people all around the world. At Kuehne+Nagel, our contribution counts in more ways than we imagine.

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As an Air Logistics Gateway Operations Specialist in Bensenville, IL, you will help coordinate the movement of international air freight, ensuring shipments are processed accurately, efficiently, and on time. You will work closely with carriers, warehouse teams, and other operations partners to manage shipment documentation, coordinate freight movement, and resolve operational challenges.

This position is ideal for someone with air freight or freight forwarding experience who enjoys working in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment. Previous gateway operations experience is not required.

How you create impact

You will support the daily operations of our air freight gateway, helping ensure shipments move efficiently while maintaining strong service, quality, and compliance standards.

• Prepare, review, and process documentation for international air freight shipments and consolidations
• Coordinate carrier bookings and support efficient cargo consolidation and freight movement
• Work closely with warehouse teams, truck dispatch, and internal operations to ensure timely shipment processing and airport delivery
• Monitor and track shipments, identifying delays or service disruptions and coordinating timely resolutions
• Communicate with air carriers, vendors, and internal teams to maintain accurate shipment information
• Maintain accurate operational records, reporting tools, and shipment data
• Support compliance with company procedures, customer requirements, and applicable transportation regulations
• Monitor shipment activity and contribute to departmental performance and service expectations
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, accuracy, and workflow processes
• Assist with rate quotes and other operational support activities as needed
• Follow established quality and compliance procedures for specialized cargo, including healthcare and other sensitive shipments

What we would like you to bring

You bring a strong understanding of logistics operations, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining accuracy. You communicate clearly, work well with others, and are comfortable navigating multiple systems to keep freight moving.

• Experience in air freight, freight forwarding, import/export operations, or a related logistics environment preferred
• Familiarity with international freight movement, shipment documentation, or cargo coordination
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple shipments, priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to identify operational issues, troubleshoot problems, and coordinate effective resolutions
• Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and other business applications
• Comfortable navigating multiple computer systems, reviewing information, and maintaining accurate records
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with carriers, warehouse personnel, and internal operations teams
• Dependable, team-oriented approach with a strong work ethic
• Willingness to learn proprietary systems and gateway-specific processes

Previous experience in dedicated gateway operations is preferred but not required. Candidates with relevant air freight or freight forwarding experience, particularly air freight import operations, are encouraged to apply.

What's in it for you

At Kuehne+Nagel we strive daily to inspire, empower, and deliver not only to our customers, but also to our colleagues. We offer a dynamic global work environment with opportunities for excellent training programs and career mobility.

Work Schedule: Sunday through Thursday. Opportunities include first shift and an afternoon/evening shift, approximately 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Some flexibility in the afternoon/evening shift start time may be available based on operational needs.

This position offers an hourly pay range of approximately $26.25 to $31.44. Base pay is part of a competitive total rewards package that includes health and welfare benefits, a 401k retirement savings plan, tuition reimbursement, and incentive compensation for eligible roles.Individual pay is determined by a number of factors including experience, skills, job location, internal pay equity, and other relevant business considerations. Kuehne+Nagel reviews pay ranges regularly to ensure competitive and fair pay based on industry market data.

Kuehne+Nagel participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to assist in specific processes, such as screening applications and interview scheduling. These tools analyze information to support decision-making, but final decisions are made by human reviewers.

Who we are

Logistics shapes everyday life - from the goods we consume to the healthcare we rely on. At Kuehne+Nagel, your work goes beyond logistics; it enables both ordinary and special moments in the lives of people around the world.
As a global leader with a strong heritage and a vision to move the world forward, we offer a safe, stable environment where your career can make a real difference. Whether we help deliver life-saving medicines, develop sustainable transportation solutions or support our local communities, your career will contribute to more than you can imagine.
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