Export Freight Planner

Company: Smithfield Foods
Location: Suffolk
Posted on: April 4, 2026

Job Description:

If you are currently employed at Smithfield, please log into Workday and submit your application through the Jobs Hub. A great job-and a great future-awaits you at Smithfield Foods. We are an American food company with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products. We’re looking for motivated people who want to join our team and grow lasting and meaningful careers with us. Apply Now! THE VALUE YOU’LL BRING: The position summary states the general nature and purpose of the job. Overall accountabilities are defined in this section. Are you ready to take charge of global logistics at Smithfield Foods? As an Export Freight Planner , you will be responsible for scheduling, routing, and tracking chilled export shipments—ensuring our products reach international customers efficiently and cost-effectively. This role is central to managing transportation decisions, optimizing load planning, and supporting customer service teams with accurate inventory and appointment coordination. You will collaborate with production plants, freight forwarders, and loading facilities to maintain system accuracy, resolve issues, and drive down transportation costs. Your work will directly impact export volume, delivery timelines, and customer satisfaction. If you're detail-oriented, proactive, and thrive in a fast-paced logistics environment, this is your opportunity to make a global impact. WHAT YOU’LL DO: The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. May perform other duties as assigned. Production & Scheduling Develop and manage production schedules based on international customer orders. Prioritize chilled export items to meet delivery timelines and customer expectations. Coordinate with production plants to align output with export demand. Transportation & Load Planning Determine transportation methods based on cost, weight, order volume, and destination. Make strategic loading decisions to minimize transportation costs. Track and monitor shipments weekly, including weekends, to ensure timely delivery. Participate in a rotating weekend coverage schedule to complete LMS uploads, monitor chilled product, and address any M&R issues as needed. Coordination & System Management Schedule loading appointments at container facilities, selecting cost-effective options. Maintain accuracy in the Load Management System (LMS) and troubleshoot freight forwarder website issues. Support customer service and claims teams with product availability and export-related inquiries. WHAT WE’RE SEEKING: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions. Education & Experience: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university and 2 years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience managing international transportation including ocean, air and drayage preferred. Attention to Detail: Demonstrates strong accuracy, organization, and follow-through in all aspects of work. Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to convey information clearly and professionally. Technical Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Strong analytical thinking and sound judgment to identify solutions and make effective decisions. Travel Requirements: May be required to travel on rare or occasional instances based on business needs. Collaboration & Teamwork: Works effectively with others in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, fostering teamwork and mutual respect. Work Ethic & Professionalism: Respectful, approachable, and team-oriented while building strong working relationships and maintaining a positive work environment. OTHER SKILLS THAT MAKE YOU STAND OUT: Previous SAP experience, a plus. Experience with Export and trade compliance, a plus. PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands described here are representative of those an employee should possess to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus. Frequently required to sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and talk or hear. &xa;&xa;Relocation Package Available&xa;&xa;No&xa;&xa; EEO Information Smithfield is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, gender identity, protected veterans status, status as a disabled individual or any other protected group status or non-job characteristic as directed by law. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment selection process, please call us at 757-357-1595.

Keywords: Smithfield Foods, Chesapeake , Export Freight Planner, Logistics, Transportation & Drivers , Suffolk, Virginia