Transportation Dispatcher

Dairy Farmers of America•Frederick, MD

About The Position

Work under a moderate degree of supervision to coordinate the scheduling and dispatching of truck drivers, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of product shipments. Perform routine duties independently and resolve straightforward issues using standard procedures, seeking assistance for uncommon, new, or complicated situations.

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 supported geographic region and 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 to achieve goals.
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.
Ability to work accurately and with attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to read, write, and speak English.

Responsibilities

Schedule and dispatch daily loads and shipments of raw milk and products to meet customer needs, optimize routes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
Dispatch approved drivers to appropriate loads based on availability, capacity, and delivery deadlines, and confirm load and delivery dates and times.
Audit driver compliance with schedules.
Serve as the primary contact between drivers, customers, and internal contacts; communicate delivery instructions and shipment updates, address changes, and resolve issues.
Develop and maintain relationships with carriers and drivers, learning their needs, schedules, and physical limitations while communicating customer and distribution-system needs.
Understand customer contracts, including volumes and quantities, plant and warehouse operating schedules, and special requirements or circumstances.
Monitor raw milk movements to ensure producers remain qualified during qualifying months and between Federal Orders; maximize diversions and transportation credits where applicable.
Assemble outgoing orders and coordinate with company depots, plants, and warehouses to maximize carrier load weights and volume.
Monitor secondary freight costs and work to minimize them when scheduling deliveries.
Monitor deliveries from load assembly through customer delivery using tracking systems, and promptly address delays or issues.
Handle emergencies and unforeseen events, such as accidents, traffic delays, and equipment malfunctions, by coordinating effective solutions.
Ensure dispatch activities comply with federal and state transportation regulations and stay current on relevant trucking and dairy industry laws and regulations.
Respond to customer inquiries and concerns about delivery times, delays, and related matters, maintaining customer satisfaction through communication and problem resolution.
Provide drivers with information and support, including directions, load information, and logistical details.
Match proof of deliveries, approve carrier invoices, and validate charges.
Work with other groups to resolve discrepancies between incoming manifests and the dispatch schedule.
Input and maintain accurate system and spreadsheet records, including proof 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 set authority limits.
May handle the sale or disposal of distressed loads and track them in the rejected-load database; communicate and maintain accurate, timely records of quality results, disposition, and sale price.
Perform other duties as assigned.