Sr. Rail Logistics Specialist

Heritage - Crystal Clean LLC•Hoffman Estates, IL

4d•$75,000 - $80,000

About The Position

The Sr. Rail Logistics Specialist will partner with the Logistics Department, Depot, Hub & Facility Managers, Branch Personnel, and Fleet Department to ensure cost-effective transportation solutions are compliantly provided at a service level that is acceptable to our customers. Notify internal and external customers of any delays and/or changes in delivery schedules. The Sr. Rail Logistics Specialist will serve as the architect and primary operator of our rail transportation network. You will be responsible for the lifecycle of our rail fleet – from leasing and maintenance to the day-to-day tactical movement of waste and recycled products. This is a high-impact role that combines transactional rail shipment management with high-level financial and regulatory strategy.

Requirements

Associate’s Degree from an accredited College or University, Bachelor’s Degree preferred
7+ years in rail logistics, preferably within the chemicals, oil & gas, or waste management sectors
Deep knowledge of railcar mechanical standards
Proven track record of managing relationships with Class I railroads (CSX, BNSF, UP, etc.) and third-party car shops
Demonstrated ability to focus, prioritize and manage multiple tasks and projects
Strong communication, influencing, and interpersonal skills
Highly motivated, results-oriented team player
Problem solver - You don’t just report a delay; you find a way around it before it impacts plant production
Proficient in MS Office Applications (Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint)
Strong business acumen and analytical skills
Solid negotiation skills
Self-motivated and results oriented

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s Degree

Responsibilities

Fleet Management: Manage a private fleet of tank and freight cars. Oversee leasing contracts, mileage auditing, and maintenance/qualification schedules.
Operational Excellence: Coordinate with Class I and Shortline railroads to ensure timely pickups and deliveries. Resolve service disruptions, "bad orders," and terminal congestion. Analyze, review and mitigate rail demurrage. Manage escalations while continuing to provide great service.
Strategic Sourcing: Negotiate freight rates and service contracts with rail carriers to optimize spend and improve transit times.
Compliance & Safety: Ensure all rail shipments strictly adhere to DOT, FRA, and EPA regulations, particularly regarding the transport of hazardous materials.
Data Analytics: Utilize TMS and rail tracking software (e.g. Rail Command) to provide real-time visibility into the supply chain and report on KPIs like demurrage, dwell time and turn-rates. Provide analysis of improved service and cost containment associated with rail operations.
Cross-Functional Leadership: Act as the subject matter expert (SME) for internal teams, including Sales, Plant Operations, and Environmental Health & Safety (EHS).