Transportation Operations Specialist | Customer On-Site

Job description

The Transportation Operations Specialist is responsible for executing standard operational workflows and ensuring the smooth operation of our logistical activities. Moving beyond daily routine communications, this role focuses on issue resolution, operational execution, and driving carrier and service provider performance through collaboration. The Specialist ensures performance and lowest-cost transportation by analyzing company and customer needs, researching transportation methods, and resolving operational bottlenecks.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Execute standard operational workflows to manage the flow of goods and materials by coordinating with customers, 3PLs, carriers, and warehouses to meet KPIs and OKRs (e.g., OTIF). Proactively identify, address, and resolve operational issues that may impact customer satisfaction, working on solutions to improve the overall customer experience. Arrange transportation for shipments, considering factors such as cost, transit time, and mode of transport, and handle standard escalations.

Drive carrier and service provider performance for the Hub and Spoke locations. Responsible for the execution of transportation management for warehouse inbound and outbound activities, as well as warehouse and trailer capacity management. Support the collection and interpretation of data, providing data analytics to improve the transportation operational efficiency of their assigned locations. Coordinate and collaborate with multiple parties to resolve standard delivery issues and implement corrective actions for ongoing opportunities.

Serve as a primary point of contact for internal departments, external vendors, and customers regarding logistics-related inquiries and issue resolution. Act as a liaison between the warehouse vendor and carrier, ensuring standard operating procedures (SOPs) are followed. Support domestic and international shipments, ensuring partner carriers meet requirements for critical shipments. Monitor inbound and outbound deliveries, proactively resolving bottlenecks in the shipping and receiving processes.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Competencies

Ability to lead, develop, and drive a cross-functional team. Aptitude to resolve issues, and efficiently diffuse conflict Character Driven: Character resonates with people and impels them to trust and follow recommended solutions Customer Service: Acts and thinks with the customer’s needs in mind. Strong, demonstrated working knowledge of Microsoft Office or Google Business tools (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Google Sheets, GMail, Drive, Google Docs, etc.)

Business Communication

Writes, speaks, and presents clearly, succinctly and professionally across a variety of communication settings and adjusts communication style to the audience Adaptability: Adapts to and embraces change with composure, resilience, and perseverance in the face of constraints, high pressure, and adverse situations. Ability to adapt in a dynamic and always changing environment Time Management: Strong time management, multitasking and prioritization skills with the ability to re-prioritize work as needed Delivers Results: Ability to anticipate issues/negative outcomes and work to resolve proactively.

Demonstrates a clear bias for action and a sense of urgency on priorities Persistence: Driven by resolution gained by consistent follow up Demonstrates the ability to build strong relationships with individuals holding various titles and roles Team Mindset: Eager to collaborate with others in developing a solution and the first to volunteer support when help is needed

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent working experience. 2-4 years of experience in supply chain, logistics, and/or transportation. Solid experience with logistics software and systems, such as ERP systems, transportation management systems (TMS), and warehouse management systems (WMS). Strong knowledge of international shipping regulations and customs procedures. Effective communication, negotiation, and issue-resolution skills.

Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions. Excellent customer service skills. Self-starter with the ability to triage and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.