Carrier Sales Assistant (Chicago)

Why OTR?

OTR Transportation sets itself apart as more than just a logistics company; we're a dedicated team committed to providing customized over-the-road shipping solutions, with a special focus on temperature-controlled and time sensitive freight. Our expertise allows clients to concentrate on their core business, while we ensure their shipping needs are met with precision.

Our strength lies in our skilled professionals, who bring innovation and excellence to every aspect of our services. This dedication makes us a trusted partner in the logistics industry, adept at meeting the unique challenges of temperature-controlled transportation. We help our clients achieve their objectives by delivering flexible, reliable, and specialized shipping solutions.

The Role:

The Carrier Sales Assistant exists to extend the capacity and effectiveness of the Carrier Sales Representative. This is not a purely administrative role. The expectation is that the assistant becomes a trusted operational partner to their rep, owning the execution layer of the carrier sales function so the rep can focus on relationship development, rate negotiation, and

growing their book of business.

Over time, a high performing Carrier Sales Assistant is expected to develop the skills and carrier relationships necessary to progress into a full Carrier Sales Representative role

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is organized, coachable, and eager to build a career in transportation and logistics.

What You’ll Do:

• Log and organize carrier bids, rates, availability, and lane information
• Book carriers and confirm rates, pickup times, delivery details, and load requirements
• Issue rate confirmations and ensure documentation is completed before pickup
• Track active shipments from pickup through delivery and provide timely status updates
• Identify delays, service issues, or exceptions and escalate when needed
• Build strong day to day relationships with assigned carriers
• Communicate available freight and lane opportunities to relationship carriers
• Onboard new carriers through Highway and ensure accurate TMS setup
• Maintain accurate load, carrier, and tracking information in the TMS
• Prepare completed loads and documentation for accounting
• Monitor carrier service performance and flag recurring issues
• Track market rates and capacity trends using DAT and Truckstop.com
• Support Carrier Sales Reps with daily load coverage and carrier communication

Experience/Qualific ations:

• No prior logistics experience required
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Comfortable working in a fast paced, high volume environment
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and stay organized
• Proactive problem solver with a strong sense of urgency
• Comfortable communicating by phone, email, and text
• Willingness to learn new systems and processes
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office or Google Workspace
• Logistics, transportation, customer service, or sales experience is a plus
• Dependable, coachable, and team oriented

Benefits at OTR:

• Full benefits including Medical, Dental, andVision
• PTO401(k) with company match
• On-site parking
• Office happy hours and Friday lunches
• A growing team where strong performers move up