Import/Export Supervisor

Job Description

Located in the heart of Central Ohio, Illuminate USA is transforming solar panel manufacturing from our cutting-edge facility in Pataskala. As a new standalone joint venture established by two global leaders in renewable energy, we’ve rapidly grown to over 1,500 associates and are now fully operational in our 1.1 million-square-foot factory. Our vision is to establish one of the largest solar panel manufacturing operations in the Western Hemisphere.

This is an exciting time to join Illuminate USA as we continue to grow and innovate. We’re not just building solar panels—we’re building a team of dedicated, passionate associates eager to make a real impact. If you’re looking to be part of a collaborative, people-focused, and forward-thinking workplace, we want to hear from you!

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and continuous opportunities for career growth. Come join us on this journey to create a brighter, more sustainable future in the Columbus area.

Job Summary:

Illuminate USA is seeking an Import/Export Logistics Supervisor to oversee and enhance our import & export operations. In this role, you will manage the company's import and export operations team and drive strategic and tactical management of daily operations. The incumbent will coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate delivery of goods, vendor management, shipment visibility, cost management, final delivery to the plant, compliance with international trade regulations, and optimize the efficiency and profitability of these activities. We're seeking someone who can bring fresh ideas to improve our processes while maintaining operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee all import/export activities, including vendor pricing, PO execution, shipment coordination, and delivery to the plant.

• Lead and develop a small, high-performing team to ensure efficient operations and continuous improvement.

• Develop and implement import/export strategies aligned with business goals and trade compliance requirements.

• Manage trade documentation, including customs declarations, bills of lading, and shipping records.

• Negotiate freight rates and contracts with carriers, freight forwarders, and logistics providers.

• Collaborate with internal teams—sales, production, planning, finance, and warehouse—to ensure accurate and timely delivery.

• Monitor shipment performance, track KPIs, and identify areas for cost savings and efficiency gains.

• Drive process improvements related to transportation mode optimization, freight control, and operational procedures.

• Maintain strong vendor relationships and ensure alignment with quality, compliance, and safety standards.

• Support customer service excellence by proactively resolving issues and mentoring the team in communication and problem-solving best practices.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field.

• 5+ years of experience in import/export operations or international logistics (preferably in a Freight Forwarding/NVOCC environment).

• Strong knowledge of international trade regulations, customs procedures, and compliance requirements.

• Proven ability to lead teams and optimize logistics workflows.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) and experience with Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and other relevant logistics software.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

• Strong attention to detail with a continuous improvement mindset.

At Illuminate USA, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity for all, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Your unique background and experiences are valued here, as we believe they strengthen our team and drive our mission forward.

Illuminate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.