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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Administrative Duties:
Handle administrative tasks related to dispatch operations, including paperwork, invoicing, and record-keeping.
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.