Manager, Freight Operations

Overview

Manage and coordinate day-to-day freight operations across all assigned carriers, and distribution points. Responsible for the movement, tracking, and cost-efficiency of inbound and outbound shipments. Supports the SVP of Operations in executing freight strategies, carrier management, and regulatory compliance in alignment with company policies and applicable transportation standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily freight operations including scheduling, routing, carrier coordination, and on-time delivery performance for inbound and outbound shipments.
• Manage and direct logistics staff, and third-party carriers; assign and prioritize shipments to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.
• Maintain accurate records of all freight activities, shipping documentation, bills of lading, statistical analysis, and carrier performance.
• Support compliance with DOT regulations, FMCSA requirements, and company safety and shipping policies across all freight operations.
• Assist in soliciting bids, evaluating carrier proposals, and managing freight contracts and rate negotiations for domestic and international transportation.
• Monitor freight spend and identify opportunities to reduce transportation costs while maintaining service level agreements.
• Respond promptly to shipment delays, carrier failures, and freight exceptions; escalate issues to the SVP of Operations as appropriate.
• Support freight projects including carrier onboarding, system implementations, and process improvements; coordinate with internal teams and logistics partners.
• Manage freight claims and disputes with carriers; track resolution and ensure accurate recordkeeping of all claims.
• Create and update Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to freight operations, shipping, and carrier management.
• Coordinate special shipments, time-sensitive deliveries, and expedited freight requests in support of business operations.
• Ensure compliance with hazardous materials shipping regulations and all applicable customs and import/export requirements.

The above duties are meant to be representative of the position and not all-inclusive.

Qualifications

MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Education/Training:

• Associate's or bachelor's degree preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience considered. Technical training or certification in transportation, logistics, supply chain management, or a related field is a plus.

Business Experience:

• Minimum four (4) years of freight, transportation, or logistics operations experience, with at least one (1) year in a supervisory or lead role. Experience in a distribution, manufacturing, or regulated shipping environment preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Technical skills: Hands-on experience with systems/technology, freight billing, carrier rate structures, and shipping documentation required. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and logistics reporting tools expected.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent communication skills including but not limited to documentation, presentation, and training meeting facilitation
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Excellent organization skills and detail oriented
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent technical skills to include Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook) and supply chain information systems
• Ability to execute projects within scope, schedule and budget
• Ability to balance multiple priorities to meet expected response deadlines
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with key stakeholders

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be physically able to access warehouse floors, loading docks, freight yards, and related operational areas.
• May be required to respond to after-hours freight emergencies or operational needs outside of normal business hours.
• Location of job activities 100% inside
• Noise and/or vibrations exposure
• Frequently reach (overhead), handle, and feel with hands and arms
• Stand and sit for prolonged periods of time
• Frequently stoop, kneel, and crouch
• Occasionally lift, carry, and move up to 50 pounds

TRAVEL & AVAILABILITY REQUIREMENTS:

• 0-20% travel

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.