Transportation Dispatcher

Dean's Dairy•Hermitage, PA

About The Position

The Transportation Dispatcher works under moderate supervision to coordinate the scheduling and dispatching of truck drivers, supporting timely and efficient delivery of product shipments. The role performs routine duties independently, resolves straightforward issues using standard procedures, and seeks assistance with uncommon or complex situations. The dispatcher schedules and monitors shipments of raw milk and other products, coordinates drivers, carriers, customers, and internal teams, and tracks deliveries through completion. The position also maintains shipment and cost records, supports regulatory compliance, addresses disruptions, and works to optimize routes, loads, and transportation costs.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
1 to 3 years of dispatching, logistics, transportation, customer service, or related experience.
Certification and/or license may be required during employment.
Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systems.
Knowledge of the geographic region supported and of logistics and transportation regulations.
Customer service skills.
Ability to analyze logistical movements and adjustments with the intent to optimize.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, verbally and in writing.
Ability to organize time, energy, and resources effectively.
Ability to problem-solve and make decisions under pressure while remaining calm and composed.
Ability to balance tolerance and assertiveness when dealing with customers and drivers.
Ability to multitask and prioritize work responsibilities.
Accuracy and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Must be able to read, write, and speak English.

Responsibilities

Schedule and dispatch daily raw milk and product shipments to meet customer needs, optimize routes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
Assign approved drivers to loads according to availability, capacity, and delivery deadlines, and confirm loading and delivery dates and times.
Audit driver compliance with schedules.
Coordinate communication between drivers, customers, and internal contacts, including delivery instructions, changes, shipment updates, and issue resolution.
Develop and maintain relationships with carriers and drivers, understanding their needs, schedules, and physical limitations while communicating customer and distribution-system requirements.
Remain familiar with customer contracts, volumes and quantities, plant and warehouse schedules, and special requirements.
Monitor raw milk movements to help ensure producers remain qualified during qualifying months and between Federal Orders, and maximize diversions and transportation credits where applicable.
Assemble outgoing loads and coordinate orders among company depots, plants, and warehouses to maximize carrier load weights and volume.
Monitor secondary freight costs and minimize them when scheduling deliveries.
Track deliveries from load assembly through customer delivery, using tracking systems to monitor truck and shipment locations and status, and address delays or issues promptly.
Respond to emergencies and unexpected events, including accidents, traffic delays, and equipment malfunctions, by coordinating solutions with drivers and others.
Ensure dispatch activities comply with federal and state transportation regulations and stay current with relevant changes in trucking and dairy industry laws and regulations.
Address customer inquiries and concerns about delivery times, delays, and related matters, supporting customer satisfaction through communication and problem resolution.
Provide drivers with directions, load information, and other logistical support.
Match proof of deliveries and approve carrier invoices; validate charges.
Work with other groups to resolve discrepancies between incoming manifests and the dispatch schedule.
Enter and maintain accurate records in systems and spreadsheets, including proofs of delivery, bills of lading, receiving credits, customer receipts, delivery schedules, carrier and hauler information, and costs; prepare regular and ad-hoc reports.
Seek and negotiate the lowest carrier costs within established authority limits.
May handle the sale or disposal of distressed loads and track them in the rejected-load database, maintaining timely and accurate records of quality results, disposition, and sale price.
Perform other duties as assigned.