Dispatch Lead

The Dispatch Lead is responsible for sourcing carrier capacity through cold calling, building and maintaining a cost-efficient dedicated carrier network, and leveraging data to optimize load assignments. This role oversees carrier communications, resolves operational issues, and negotiates competitive rates to support efficient load coverage. This role provides guidance, support, and direction to Logistics Coordinators and Dispatch Coordinators while promoting accountability, process consistency, and efficient issue resolution. The Dispatch Lead also plays a key role in supporting operations through effective inventory management and load optimization, helping drive overall network performance and efficiency. This position can be onsite at either our St. Louis, MO location or our Sacramento, CA location. Schedule: St. Louis, MO, Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm; Sacramento, CA, Monday-Friday, 6:30am-3:00pm Compensation: $24/hr Essential Job Duties Source carrier capacity through consistent cold calling, outreach, and relationship development. Build and expand a cost‑efficient dedicated carrier network to support long‑term capacity needs. Pair loads with optimal carriers using data, market insights, and performance scorecards. Manage inbound and outbound communication with carriers to ensure timely coordination and updates. Negotiate competitive rates with carriers to reduce overall transportation costs. Identify, investigate, and resolve operational and audit‑related issues. Manage inventory to ensure efficient load coverage and minimize service gaps. Maximize load factors to improve equipment utilization and overall profitability. Execute load optimization strategies, including load reassignments and “bumping” when necessary. Monitor performance and leverage data insights to continuously improve dispatch decisions. Support and adhere to payable automation and auto‑bundling initiatives to drive efficiency and accuracy. Assist with onboarding and training new team members on processes, systems, and best practices. Provide guidance, coaching, and support to Logistics Coordinators and Dispatch Coordinators to promote consistency, accountability, and operational execution. Additional duties, assigned to support business needs. Required Qualifications This position requires a High School diploma or equivalent; associate's degree in business or a related field is a plus. 2-4 years of previous experience in dispatching, preferably within the transportation or logistics industry. Previous customer service experience preferred. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Proficient in Microsoft Office programs and other general office equipment. Organized thinker with exceptional attention to detail. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing business needs. Demonstrated problem‑solving skills with the ability to identify risks and support issue resolution. Demonstrated ability to lead day‑to‑day operational activities and provide guidance to team members in a fast‑paced environment. Excellent communication skills, both verbally and in writing. Ability to deliver exceptional customer service. Positive attitude, team player. Ability to multi‑task. Intermediate‑level data entry skills. Ability to work independently. Willingness to learn and assume responsibility. Personal responsibility to manage change. Experience using transportation management systems (TMS), CRM platforms, workflow tools, and operational reporting systems preferred. Work Environment General office conditions. Exposed to moderate noise levels. Physical Abilities Required to use close vision and be able to focus. Regularly required to talk and hear; frequently required to sit, stand and bend at the knee and waist, and walk. Must be able to have repetitive wrist, hand and/or finger movement to type and work on computer. Must have finger dexterity and hand‑eye coordination to work on computer, telephone, and related office equipment. Regular attendance is a necessary and essential function. This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed and is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Employees may be required to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned to meet business needs. ACERTUS reserves the right to modify, revise, or update job duties, responsibilities, and requirements at any time. #J-18808-Ljbffr