Associate Logistics Planner

Job DescriptionSupport logistics planners and milk dispatchers with all aspects of daily activities related to the pickup and delivery of farm milk (tankers) from DFA farmer-owners. This may include the planning, scheduling, sourcing of outside milk, settlement, and transportation of milk to internal/external customers in a specific geographic region. Help to ensure milk is delivered at maximum efficiency, quality, and customer service. Suggest or determine economical and efficient routes and address common challenges associated with the movement/transportation of milk. Ensure all transactions are tracked and accurately recorded in the appropriate systems. Use prescribed guidelines or policies to analyze and resolve routine to moderately difficult problems. While generally working under guidance and direction must also be able to work without supervision. Must be available to work after hours and on call as required. This is an in-office position with some remote work required.JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESManage customer needs and/or orders using software tools and considering various factors (geographical areas, delivery dates, amount of milk, etc.) to optimize routing of trucksAssemble, prepare and track relevant data related to the movement of milk, track and report costs above the standard; assist in the preparation of a regional hauling P&LPrepare schedules that balance all parties’ (member, customer) needs with planned efficiency and profitabilityFacilitate effective communication with haulers; provide daily hauler support toensure that loads are picked up and delivered in a timely mannerCommunicate with plant personnel, haulers to resolve common shipment and/or service issues, special deliveries, and order adjustments; keep everyone informed of critical changesSupport on-time delivery problem solving and performance improvements with customers; actively communicate with all impacted parties to discover solutions to various issues, such as, missed delivery time or date, etc.Work closely with internal contacts to maintain carrier and customer data, such as delivery location, frequency, ; use this information to support efficient and economical transportation of customer deliveriesEnsure transactions are tracked and accurately recorded in the appropriate Reconcile assigned transactions (receipts) with customers, haulers, members, etc., dailyAssist with tasks related to twice-monthly hauler payment Review with management the status of current week’s activities and transactionsPerform demand forecasts for peak delivery periods, as requestedBe part of on-call milk dispatch rotation including periodic evenings, weekends and some holidays. The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be assigned as requiredJob RequirementsEducation & Experience:Undergraduate degree in business, logistics, supply chain, distribution management, or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of experience and education)0 to 2 years of transportation, distribution, dispatching, supply chain, or related experience, applying knowledge of the motor carrier industry; knowledge of or experience with transportation management systems (TMS) preferredCertification and/or License – may be required during course of employmentKnowledge, Skills & Abilities:Knowledge of the principles, practices, and economics of distribution and logisticsGeneral knowledge of regulatory requirements, rules, and regulations (DOT, GMP, USDA, OSHA, HACCP)Knowledge of and skill with Microsoft Office Suite and company computer systemsAble to interact positively and work effectively with others (interpersonal skills)Able to handle challenging or conflict situations with tact and professionalismAble to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writingAble to problem solve basic to moderately difficult situations, multi-task and prioritize work activitiesAble to work with accuracy and attention to detailAble to perform task and duties without constant supervisionMust be able to read, write and speak EnglishTravel: 15% - 25%, 1 - 2 times per quarterAn Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/VeteransJob DetailsJob Type: Full TimeCategory: Supply Chain and Logistics