Dispatcher

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:

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.