Panama - Equipment Control/Customer Service Representative

You Belong Here…Wherever in the World you find yourself.

We celebrate our wins as one team of many great people!

With a vision for a connected world, Inchcape relies upon the expertise, diversity, and global network of our over 3,000 professionals, spread across 60 plus countries and in over 240 offices to help our partners connect to a smoother, smarter ocean.

We empower our people, and our values are at the center of everything we do, and the successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate and fully adopt these:

Global Perspective – we connect the world and see the bigger picture.
The Power of People – we rely on the strength of local agent knowledge and relationships.
Progress – we adopt new thinking and push for positive change in our industry.

We know what matters. We never stand still. We always reach for more.

#WeAreInchcape

Business Need / Purpose of Role:

The Equipment Control/Customer Service Representative reporting into the Liner Manager shall primarily be responsible for Vessel planning/attendance and Equipment Management ensuring ensure smooth and effective running of all tasks related to equipment control and support operational functions in adherence to all liner procedures.

Objectives & Measurement – Key Responsibilities

Oversee daily container inventory variation and figure out the surplus/shortage volume.

Plan for empty reposition and maintain inventory level at the location.

Updating daily container movements in the local system.

Track loading and discharge movements per vessel / voyage.

Attending joint surveys with clients on excessively damaged containers.

Arrange off-hire container in designated location.

Generate accurate and timely invoices (including all necessary back-up) for detention, short term lease (STL), and terminal storage services.

Correspond with customers and operations regarding detention and billing questions.

Work with various departments to ensure the documentation and invoicing for equipment usage is accurate.

Maintain up to date records and correspondence related to customer notifications, including vessel arrivals and departures, equipment inventories, potential charges to be incurred, etc.

Communicate with customers and Accounts Receivable regarding invoice discrepancies or other customer concerns related to equipment utilization.

Remain attentive to changes in operations, and support as necessary.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Foundational knowledge of Port Operations and Port Agency services.

Foundational knowledge of Container/Shipping Line.

Ability to work independently with limited supervision, multitask and possess strong initiative, exercise independent judgment within established systems and procedures.

Ability to prioritize work and handle multiple competing priorities.
Ability to balance multiple tasks, changing priorities & operate within a deadline-oriented environment.

Ability to think logically, establish and follow procedures, instructions and make sound decisions.

Possess organizational and time management skills with ability to prioritize, be detail oriented and results driven.

Attention to detail with a high level of accuracy.

Excellent customer service and communication skills, including strong verbal and listening skills.

Must have an advanced communication (verbal, written and listening) skills in order to communicate at different levels throughout the organization and with exterior organizations, etc.

Excellent verbal and written communications skills required in English.  Bilingual, fluent in English & Spanish preferred.

Must possess an advanced proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Outlook.

Education, Qualifications, Certifications, and Licenses:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.

Associate's and/or Bachelor’s Degree in Maritime Administration, Business Administration or a related major in a public or accredited private academic institution desired but not required.

Minimum 1-3 years’ experience in a similar position/industry, preferably with experience in liner shipping, freight forwarding/NVOCC, maritime logistics, or liner service environment preferred, but not required.

Prior port agency (shipping services) experience with exposure to various commodities preferred but not required.

Experience working within complex international organizations.

Why Inchcape Shipping Services?

We believe in building a diverse and high performing workforce, that works together to provide our partners with the exceptional service they deserve. To reach the highest standards we depend on our people, their welfare, training, and expertise. We realize the value of the diversity of our people and know that their unique experiences, skills, and passions – strengthens the organization, stimulates creativity, and promotes the exchange of ideas – helping you to build a rich and rewarding career.

What you’ll get:

We understand that different families have different needs, which is why we’re always evolving our benefits to accommodate our employees.

Along with health and financial benefits, our employees enjoy a variety of other perks, tuition assistance, employee resource groups, and collaborative workspaces — some offices even welcome dogs.  

In addition to our traditional benefits and perks, we sponsor various events throughout the year. And we provide a culture based on learning, the support of an engaged team, and an inclusive environment where all employees are valued.  

We also encourage a better work-life balance with our flexibility. While we know in-office collaboration is critical to our vision, we recognize that not all work needs to be done within an office environment, full-time. With consistent communication and digital collaboration tools, Inchcape has enabled our employees to find a balance that feels fulfilling and productive for each individual situation.

Generous time off and paid holidays

Performance and Recognition – You are rewarded for achieving success by merit increases and reaching milestones.

Career growth and opportunities for promotions. We develop and hire from within!

Plus, much more!

We have you covered for anything life could throw your way.

Deciding where you want to work is an important decision. Choosing a company that support your professional and personal goals is essential. Inchcape provides the resources, culture, and leadership you need to be successful, to build something you’re proud of, and take advantage of all the future holds.

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Who you are is who we are.

Inchcape is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Inchcape encourages applicants of all ages.  As part of this commitment, Inchcape will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please email [email protected] describing the accommodation.

Please note that as per Inchcape policy, we do not accept unsolicited resumes from employment, recruitment, staffing, or related agencies unless engaged to provide candidates for a specified opening. Any employment agency, person or entity that submits an unsolicited resume does so with the understanding that Inchcape will have the right to hire that applicant at its discretion without any fee owed to the submitting employment agency, person, or entity.

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