Location: Chicago, IL — On-site Pay: $45,000 – $60,000 base plus commission, based on experience Type: Permanent | Full-Time
Job Summary:
The Carrier Sales Representative is responsible for sourcing, qualifying, and managing carrier relationships to support a growing book of freight across temperature-controlled, dry van, and specialized lanes. This role sits at the intersection of sales and operations — building a reliable carrier network while ensuring capacity is available when customers need it most. Strong performers in this role are competitive, relationship-driven, and thrive in a high-call-volume environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Source and onboard qualified carriers through outbound prospecting, load boards, and referral networks
Negotiate rates with carriers on spot and contracted lanes to meet margin targets
Build long-term carrier partnerships by consistently delivering fair rates, reliable freight, and responsive communication
Cover freight loads by matching available carrier capacity to active shipments in real time
Maintain accurate carrier profiles and performance data in the TMS
Collaborate with operations and account management teams to ensure capacity meets customer commitments
Meet or exceed weekly and monthly call volume, load coverage, and margin targets
Must-Haves / Requirements:
1+ years of experience in carrier sales, freight brokerage, or transportation sales
Demonstrated ability to prospect and build new relationships through outbound outreach
Comfort with high call volume and fast-paced negotiations
Strong problem-solving ability and follow-through under pressure
Proficient in Microsoft Office and standard CRM or TMS tools
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with refrigerated or temperature-controlled freight
Familiarity with DAT, Truckstop, or similar load board platforms
Track record of hitting or exceeding sales or margin targets in a brokerage environment
Screening Questions:
How many outbound calls did you average per day in your most recent carrier sales or freight brokerage role?
Have you worked with temperature-controlled or refrigerated freight lanes? If so, what types of carriers and commodities were involved?
Walk me through how you typically identify and onboard a new carrier partner from first contact to first covered load.