Logistics Specialist

We are seeking a Logistics Specialist with strong African cross-border expertise to manage complex multimodal transportation across Southern and Central East Africa. This role focuses heavily on cross-border road freight operations, with deep knowledge of regional customs procedures, border requirements, and trade compliance.

In this position, you will report to the Senior Manager, Logistics Operations, with support from your Regional Lead Specialist.

This position is based in Centurion, South Africa with travel to Metso Distribution Center, customer sites, and service provider locations within South Africa.

TEAM YOU’LL BELONG TO

You will join our Logistics team, working closely with freight forwarders, customs brokers, trade compliance, sales teams, and internal stakeholders to ensure seamless cross-border operations across the region.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Execute cross-border road freight export operations from South Africa to SADC, COMESA, and EAC destinations with deep understanding of SARS export procedures, border operations, transit requirements, and destination country regulations.
• Manage all export documentation including SARS export declarations, export permits, certificates of origin, Certificates of Conformity (COC) for destination countries, inspection certificates (Bureau Veritas, Intertek), bills of lading, ATA/TIR Carnets, cross border transit bonds, , letter of credits, and support import documentation ( including temporary import permits, repair and returns, letter of credits) as needed.
• Work with customs brokers who interface with authorities (primarily SARS for South African Operations) to facilitate clearances and resolve customs issues and handle queries from other regional customs authorities.
• Apply strong understanding of Incoterms 2020 to manage shipping terms accurately - this is critical for cross-border operations.
• Coordinate export shipments via multimodal transportation (primarily road freight exports, with ocean and air as needed) through freight forwarders, including FCL/LCL containers, breakbulk shipments, heavy/oversized mining equipment, and dangerous goods (IATA/IMDG compliance), with coordination at Plumbago Park Distribution Centre for outbound collections
• Manage cross-trade shipments and customer-nominated LSP relationships, ensuring compliance with all border and transit requirements
• Support SARS compliance requirements and internal audits by maintaining accurate documentation and records
• Prepare freight estimates, execute all shipment bookings in SAP TM, and contribute to achieving logistics KPIs including on-time delivery, on-time booking, on-time pickup (LSP collection), and cost consciousness.
• Monitor LSP performance, handle cargo insurance coordination, manage claims, and execute emergency response procedures for delayed or damaged shipments
• Escalate complex routing decisions, non-standard shipments, major customs issues, and customer escalations to Regional Lead.

WHO YOU ARE

• Matric (Grade 12) with degree or diploma in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or related field (required)
• 5-10 years’ experience in international logistics operations with strong African cross-border experience.
• Strong expertise with DRC and Zimbabwe routes including specific border requirements, transit procedures, and inspection requirements (Bureau Veritas, Intertek, COC)
• Solid hands-on experience in cross-border road freight (trucking, border crossings, transit documentation) and at least one other transport mode (ocean freight: FCL/LCL bookings, or air cargo: expedited shipments, airport cargo handling)
• Experience operating logistics across at least 2-3 African countries (preference for: DRC, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania).
• Understanding of SADC, COMESA, and/or EAC trade agreements with ability to apply them in daily operations.
• Experience working with freight forwarders for multimodal shipments (rather than direct shipping line or airline operations)
• Strong understanding of Incoterms 2020 and their application in shipping scenarios - this is critical for the role.
• Minimum 3-4 years proficiency in SAP TM (Transportation Management) for logistics operations (advantage)
• Knowledge of customs clearance processes, documentation requirements, and dangerous goods regulations (IATA/IMDG); dangerous goods certification advantageous
• Experience with heavy/oversized cargo, demurrage and detention management, and cargo insurance processes
• Familiarity with African ports (Durban, Mombasa, Dar es Salaam, Beira and Walvis Bay) and border posts

WHAT SKILLS, COMPETENCIES AND REQUIREMENTS (HARD AND SOFT) ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THIS ROLE?

• Customer-centric mindset with strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy, particularly in customs documentation and cross-border requirements.
• Ability to execute standard operations independently with good judgment on when to escalate complex issues.
• Strong problem-solving skills and crisis management abilities under pressure.
• Compliance-minded with understanding of regulatory requirements across multiple African jurisdictions.
• Budget-conscious with ability to track costs and support cost optimization.
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and verbal).
• Valid driver’s license required

• Must have proficiency and knowledge of personal computing technologies.
• Willingness to learn and continually improve own knowledge base.
• Driven and independent self-starter focused on meeting or exceeding targets set.
• Ability to manage own time.
• Good understanding of warehousing and transportation.
• Some afterhours work might be expected

 WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU

• An inspiring purpose - Enabling sustainable modern life. Minerals and metals are the backbone of essential functions in the modern world. However, there's a pressing need for more sustainable solutions to collect and process them. At Metso, you get to be part of transforming the industry and making a positive change.
• Compensation and rewards – Market-related salary with global incentive program tied to business and performance targets
• Hybrid working possibilities - While we are big advocates of meeting and collaborating in person, we believe in fostering a flexible work environment
• A thriving culture - We are committed to developing an inclusive culture that enables everyone to do their best and reach their full potential. A culture that is courageous, compelling, and caring, and unites our people to build a sustainable future together.
• Extensive learning opportunities - Ongoing growth dialogues, internal mobility, mentoring programs, education assistance, ambitious projects, and global opportunities.
• Worldwide support - Leverage our network of peers across the world, offering valuable assistance. We get things done together, through open and honest communication.
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GET IN TOUCH

Want to rise above the possible with us?

• Go to our website www.metso.com, click on careers and start your application