Outbound Planning Specialist

OverviewThe Outbound Planning Specialist is responsible for the planning of inbound and outbound Sprouts Farmers Market controlled freight being delivered to the Distribution Centers, retail locations, and other destinations as deemed necessary. This position uses the Transportation Management System for planning and optimization of this freight in adherence to Procurement, Distribution Center, and Retail teams’ scheduling policies. The Planning Specialist is responsible for aligning the inbound and outbound strategy with the Supply Chain and Distribution teams for the most efficient and timely flow of freight to its destination.This position is located at our Store Support Office in Phoenix, Arizona,and operates on a Sunday through Thursday schedule, with in-office days Tuesday through Thursday.Overview of ResponsibilitiesPlan, build, and optimize outbound loads to maximize cube and weight utilization while ensuring timely store and destination deliveries. Execute transportation plans that balance service, cost, and operational efficiency across the outbound freight network. Identify and implement opportunities to reduce transportation costs, improve load efficiency, and enhance network performance. Develop and maintain collaborative working relationships with internal business partners, distribution centers, carriers, brokers, suppliers, and other stakeholders. Manage and maintain TMS planning and optimization parameters to support accurate and efficient freight execution. Procure transportation capacity and negotiate competitive spot market rates to support service requirements and cost objectives. Monitor daily freight activity and proactively resolve transportation issues that could impact delivery performance. Lead strategic outbound network analysis for each DC, evaluating fleet utilization, routing structures, and delivery patterns independently and collectively.Analyze historical shipment, route, and order data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and improvement opportunities at the DC and network level.Serve as a key liaison between carriers, vendors, distribution centers, and internal teams to ensure alignment and successful freight execution. Prepare and analyze transportation data, performance metrics, reports, and operational correspondence to support business decision-making. Support transportation bids, carrier sourcing initiatives, continuous improvement efforts, and network optimization projects.QualificationsStrong business acumen with the ability to evaluate transportation decisions through operational and financial impacts.Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and recommend solutions.Strong problem-solving, prioritization, and decision-making skills in a fast-paced environment.Effective negotiation skills with the ability to secure transportation capacity and favorable pricing.Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build partnerships across multiple functions and organizational levels.Excellent verbal, written, and presentation communication skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines and maintaining a high level of accuracy.Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data analysis and reporting.Experience working with Transportation Management Systems, preferably MercuryGate.Knowledge of transportation operations, carrier management, freight planning, and logistics best practices.Preferred QualificationsBachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, Transportation, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.Previous experience in transportation planning, logistics, supply chain, or freight operations.Experience using transportation management systems and transportation optimization tools.Familiarity with retail, grocery, distribution center, or high-volume supply chain environments.BenefitsIn addition to a rewarding career, Sprouts offers a comprehensive program to help support you and your family. These programs include:Competitive paySick time plan that you can use to support you or your immediate families healthVacation accrual planOpportunities for career growth15% discount for you and one other family member in your household on all purchases made at SproutsFlexible schedulesEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)401(K) Retirement savings plan with a generous company matchCompany paid life insuranceContests and appreciation events throughout the year full of prizes, food and fun!Eligibility requirements may apply for the following benefits:Bonus based on company and/or individual performanceAffordable benefit coverage, including medical, dental and visionHealth Savings Account with company matchPre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent careCompany paid short-term disability coveragePaid parental leave for both mothers and fathersPaid holidaysGet Paid Every Day!Sprouts Farmers Market offers DailyPay - if you’re hired as an eligible employee, you’ll be able to transfer the money you’ve already earned at no extra cost, and get it the next business day, for free. We offer DailyPay so you don’t have to wait for payday to access the money you’ve already worked for. With DailyPay, you can see how much you’ve made every day and you can transfer your money any time before payday. You can learn more by visiting .Why SproutsGrow with us!If you have a passion for inspiring people and a flair for fresh food, consider applying for a job at Sprouts! With a focus on customer service, our neighborhood grocery stores offer high-quality, farm fresh produce, natural meats, plenty of scoop-your-own bulk goods and much more in a fun, friendly, old-fashioned farmer’s market setting. Come grow your career in healthy living with a fast-paced, rapidly growing company and teams that pride themselves on empowering others along their journey.At Sprouts, we’re committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and caring workplace culture.Our Team Member Resource Groups (TMRGs) create spaces for connection, support, and growth. Every team member is welcome to join one or more of our five groups:Inspiring Women at SproutsRainbow Alliance at SproutsSabor at SproutsSoul at SproutsHonored to Serve at SproutsTogether, these groups celebrate diversity and empower our team to thrive.The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and requirements. Sprouts’ management reserves the right to amend and change duties, responsibilities, and requirements to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.Sprouts will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance.California Residents: We collect information in accordance with California law, please see here for more information.