Dispatcher

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title : Dispatcher

Department : Logistics / Operations

Reports To : Dispatch & Shipping Manager

Job Summary : The Dispatcher will oversee the dispatch operations for a lumber and building material distributor, ensuring efficient and timely delivery of products.

This role involves managing a team of truck drivers, coordinating with various departments, and maintaining compliance with all relevant regulations.

The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, excellent organizational abilities, and a deep understanding of logistics and dispatching in the lumber industry.

Key Responsibilities :

1. Manage Dispatch Operations :

• Oversee daily dispatch operations to ensure timely and accurate delivery of lumber and building materials.
• Coordinate with sales, warehouse, and customer service departments to streamline order fulfillment.
• Ensure equality in prioritizing orders among all salespeople and adherence to company policies.

2. Team Leadership and Development :

• Supervise and provide guidance to a team of 9 truck drivers and an assistant.
• Hire and fire authority over assistants and delivery drivers.
• Develop and maintain a detailed training process for new and existing drivers.
• Manage performance, provide evaluations, and ensure accountability for the entire department.
• Maintain a positive attitude and foster a supportive work environment.

3. Scheduling and Routing :

• Develop and maintain efficient delivery schedules and routes.
• Utilize dispatch software to optimize routes and reduce delivery times and costs.
• Manage employees efficiently to avoid or limit overtime pay.

4. Customer Service :

• Address and resolve any delivery-related issues or customer complaints promptly.
• Maintain open communication with customers regarding delivery status and any potential delays.

5. Compliance and Safety :

• Ensure all dispatch operations comply with federal, state, and local regulations, including FMCSA DOT requirements.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols to protect drivers and maintain a safe working environment.
• Maintain all maintenance on delivery equipment.

6. Inventory and Quality Control :

• Coordinate with the warehouse team to ensure accurate inventory levels and timely restocking of materials.
• Ensure inventory control and protect the companys entries and exits to avoid shrinkage.
• Authority on checking procedures to ensure accuracy and quality.

7. Communication and Coordination :

• Coordinate communication between the yard and drivers to ensure correct material is delivered.
• Liaise with various departments to ensure smooth operations and timely deliveries.

8. Reporting and Analysis :

• Prepare and present regular reports on dispatch operations, driver performance, and delivery metrics.
• Analyze data to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency.
• Show effort and time spent on improving the department weekly, monthly, and annually.

9. Administrative Duties :

• o Handle administrative tasks related to dispatch operations, including paperwork, invoicing, and record-keeping.
• o Maintain accurate and organized records of all dispatch activities.

Qualifications :

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in dispatching, logistics, or a related role, preferably in the lumber or building materials industry preferred.
• Proven experience in managing a team of drivers and coordinating complex delivery schedules.
• Strong knowledge of FMCSA DOT regulations and compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in dispatch software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Working Conditions :
• This position may require occasional lifting of materials and products.
• The role involves working in both office and Yard environments.
• Flexibility to work outside regular business hours as needed.

Key required qualities crucial to succeed in this role as a Dispatcher :

• Communication Skills : Clear and effective communication is essential for coordinating with drivers, customers, and other team members.
• Problem-Solving Abilities : The ability to think quickly and resolve issues as they arise is vital in a dispatch role.
• Attention to Detail : Ensuring accuracy in scheduling, routing, and documentation helps prevent errors and delays.
• Multitasking : Dispatchers often need to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, so being able to juggle various responsibilities efficiently is important.
• Stress Management : The role can be high-pressure, so staying calm and composed under stress is beneficial.
• Technical Proficiency : Familiarity with dispatch software and other relevant technology can streamline operations and improve efficiency.
8 days ago