Dispatcher in Manteno, Illinois at Urban Farmer LLC

Overview:

The Dispatcher is responsible for coordinating and scheduling transportation activities to ensure the timely and efficient movement of materials, finished goods, and deliveries. This role serves as the primary communication link between drivers, warehouse personnel, production teams, carriers, and customers while maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with company policies and transportation regulations. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Strong communication, problem-solving, and scheduling skills are essential for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities:

Transportation Scheduling & Coordination

· Schedule and dispatch drivers, carriers, and transportation resources to meet customer and operational requirements.

· Coordinate inbound and outbound shipments to ensure on-time delivery and pickup.

· Monitor transportation schedules and proactively address delays, route changes, or service disruptions.

· Communicate daily transportation schedules to drivers, warehouse teams, and leadership.

· Ensure efficient utilization of company vehicles, trailers, and transportation resources.

Driver Communication & Support

· Serve as the primary point of contact for drivers during assigned shifts.

· Maintain ongoing communication regarding routes, delivery schedules, traffic conditions, weather impacts, and customer requirements.

· Provide support and direction to drivers to ensure timely and safe operations.

· Respond to transportation emergencies and assist with problem resolution.

Logistics & Shipment Tracking

· Monitor shipment status and provide updates to internal stakeholders.

· Track delivery performance and maintain transportation records.

· Verify shipping documentation, bills of lading, delivery receipts, and transportation paperwork.

· Coordinate with warehouse and production teams to ensure product readiness and shipment accuracy.

· Investigate and resolve transportation discrepancies, delivery issues, and customer concerns.

Compliance & Documentation

· Maintain accurate transportation logs, dispatch records, and scheduling reports.

· Ensure compliance with DOT regulations, company policies, and safety requirements.

· Support driver qualification and documentation processes as required.

· Assist with audits and transportation reporting activities.

· Maintain confidentiality of company and customer information.

Continuous Improvement

· Identify opportunities to improve transportation efficiency and reduce costs.

· Analyze route performance, driver utilization, and scheduling effectiveness.

· Participate in transportation and supply chain improvement initiatives.

· Support cross-functional collaboration between transportation, warehouse, production, and customer service teams.

Qualifications:

· High School Diploma or GED required.

· Minimum of 2 years of experience in dispatching, transportation, logistics, warehouse operations, customer service, or a related field.

· Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

· Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

· Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.

· Ability to problem-solve and make sound decisions under pressure.

· Ability to communicate professionally with drivers, carriers, customers, and internal departments.

· Ability to work flexible hours, including overtime, weekends, and holidays as business needs require.

Preferred Qualifications

· Associate degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.

· Previous experience in food manufacturing, transportation, distribution, or warehouse operations.

· Experience utilizing Transportation Management Systems (TMS), ERP systems, GPS tracking platforms, or dispatch software.

· Knowledge of DOT regulations, Hours of Service (HOS), and transportation compliance requirements.

· Experience coordinating inbound and outbound freight, route planning, and load scheduling.

· Bilingual (English/Spanish) communication skills preferred.