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 company’s 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.