Job Description
Job Description
Description :
Cartage Xperts is a trusted logistics partner in the temperature-controlled pharmaceutical freight industry. We specialize in secure, compliant, and time-sensitive transportation between Chicago O’Hare (ORD) , Rockford (RFD) , freight forwarders, and pharmaceutical warehouses throughout the Midwest region.
We are growing and seeking an experienced Dispatcher with gateway experience —someone with a deep understanding of O’Hare’s cargo layout and a proactive, problem-solving mindset.
Position Overview :
This position functions as a dispatcher , overseeing the efficient, compliant, and timely movement of pharmaceutical cargo in and out of ORD and RFD . You'll serve as the operational link between our drivers, customer service team, airport cargo terminals, freight forwarders, and warehouse personnel .
This role is ideal for someone who understands both the hands-on execution and the strategic planning that goes into moving sensitive, high value cargo through airport gateways.
Key Responsibilities :
- Manage day-to-day gateway operations at O’Hare, including oversight of all inbound / outbound shipments, driver assignments, and freight availability at cargo terminals.
- Serve as the main point of contact for drivers and our customer service team. Knowledge of ground handlers a benefit, including WFS, Swissport, Alliance Ground, Menzies, and airline stations, a plus.
- Coordinate pickup windows, freight availability, and special handling requirements (e.g., cold chain, hazmat, or high-value shipments).
- Direct and monitor dispatching of drivers to and from airports and warehouse locations, ensuring alignment with ETAs, load integrity, and customer-specific SOPs.
- Supervise cold chain compliance during pickup, in transit, and at delivery – including monitoring reefer units, temperature logs, and chain of custody documentation.
- Work closely with the customer service department to ensure up-to-date shipment information, proactive communication with clients, and resolution of service issues.
- Identify and mitigate delays or issues at cargo terminals, and escalate operational challenges proactively .
- Maintain detailed operational records, delivery documentation, shipment logs, and ensure all data is accurate and audit-ready.
- Collaborate with leadership to improve routing efficiency, minimize wait times at O’Hare , and streamline internal SOPs.
Requirements :
3+ years experience in dispatch, airport gateway coordination, or operations within freight forwarding, air cargo, or trucking.In-depth understanding of ORD and RFD cargo layout , freight stations, and ground handler processes.Experience with temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical freight is highly preferred.Strong knowledge of cold chain requirements , including chain of custody, temperature control monitoring, and regulatory compliance (GDP / GMP).Ability to coordinate across multiple stakeholders, including drivers, handlers, freight forwarders, and internal teams.Proficient in dispatch software, GPS tracking systems, and Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, etc.).Excellent communication, organizational, and time-management skills.Bilingual (English / Spanish) is a plus.