RFQ Operations Engineer & Export Trading Setup Specialist (U.S. Products Export / Full Business Buildout)

Job Overview
I’m looking to hire a highly experienced RFQ (Request for Quotation) & Export Operations Engineer to help me build an end-to-end U.S.-based trading/export company from scratch.
This role is not for beginners — I need someone who has already worked in the RFQ/export industry, understands how to source, quote, and ship U.S. products globally, and can set up the entire business infrastructure, including team structure, software systems, and operational workflows.
You’ll act as my hands-on operator, helping select the right niche, tools, and team to build a scalable export business that connects U.S. suppliers to international clients.

Responsibilities
Your core focus will be building the business foundation and ensuring everything operates efficiently from day one. Tasks include:
???? Strategic & Operational Setup
• Help identify profitable industries and products for U.S. export (based on market demand, supplier availability, and profit margins).
• Build the RFQ workflow process — from client inquiry to quotation, supplier negotiation, and purchase order fulfillment.
• Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) and documentation for every part of the export cycle.
• Establish the structure of a remote operations team (sourcing agents, procurement staff, logistics coordinators, virtual assistants).
???? Software & System Integration
• Recommend and implement RFQ/procurement management software (e.g., SAP Ariba, Coupa, or custom-built platforms).
• Set up supplier and client databases, communication systems, and workflow automation tools.
• Integrate key tools for email, invoicing, CRM, logistics tracking, and compliance documentation.
???? Supplier & Client Development
• Identify and connect with reliable U.S. suppliers/manufacturers for selected product categories.
• Build client acquisition strategies for international buyers (B2B outreach, trade platforms, and marketplaces).
• Establish supplier agreements, export pricing models, and shipping coordination plans.
???? Team & Operations Management
• Help recruit, train, and manage a remote global team.
• Define clear roles (sourcing, quotation, logistics, client relations).
• Oversee daily operations until systems are fully functioning and self-sustaining.


Requirements
• Proven experience working in RFQ / procurement / export operations — ideally for U.S.-based products or clients.
• Strong background in international trade, sourcing, or engineering procurement.
• Hands-on experience setting up RFQ or supply chain management systems.
• Deep understanding of export documentation, compliance, and shipping coordination.
• Ability to work independently, build processes from scratch, and deliver structured systems.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills — you’ll be coordinating multiple stakeholders.
• Must be solution-driven, proactive, and highly knowledgeable — this is not a learning role.

Preferred Experience
• Prior work with U.S. companies exporting products overseas.
• Familiarity with global trade platforms (Alibaba, ThomasNet, Tradewheel, etc.).
• Experience managing or training remote teams.
• Strong background in engineering, procurement, or supply chain operations.

About This Role
This is an end-to-end buildout project. You’ll be helping launch a full trading/export operation starting from:
• Market & niche selection
• Supplier and client network setup
• RFQ software configuration
• Operations manual and SOP creation
• Remote team structure and training
This can evolve into a long-term partnership depending on performance and scalability results.