Freight & Port Dispatcher

Job Description

Job Description

FREIGHT & PORT DISPATCHER

Job Summary

The Freight & Port Dispatcher coordinates daily driver assignments, container/load movements, and terminal appointments across port drayage and freight hauling operations. This hybrid role combines live dispatch responsibilities with administrative functions including compliance recordkeeping, reporting, and cross-departmental coordination.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Dispatch Operations:

• Assign drivers and equipment to daily loads, balancing port drayage runs with freight hauling schedules.
• Monitor and manage container appointments via eModal for import/export moves across terminals (TraPac, SSA/OICT, Everport, etc.).
• Track driver location, ETAs, and terminal transaction times.
• Communicate load changes, delays, and route adjustments to drivers in real time.
• Coordinate street turns and equipment repositioning with ocean carriers (CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk, MSC, Evergreen, Yang Ming, COSCO, etc.).
• Resolve day-of issues: mechanical breakdowns, terminal congestion, missed appointments, chassis shortages, etc.
• Monitor driver Hours of Service (HOS) via ELD (Samsara) to ensure FMCSA compliance and avoid violations.
• Coordinate with facility/freight operations to align truck flow with intake capacity during peak season.

Administrative Duties:

• Maintain accurate dispatch logs, load records, and terminal transaction documentation.
• Prepare and distribute daily/weekly reports.
• Process and file paperwork related to bill of ladings, invoicing, delivery receipts, and inspection reports.
• Support driver file maintenance and compliance documentation (DOT, HOS, meal break records).
• Assist with data entry and updates in TomatoStar or other internal freight/logistics systems.
• Support scheduling, timekeeping, or other administrative tasks as operations require.
• Seasonal administrative support across multiple operational areas.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; some college or logistics coursework a plus.
• 1–3 years of dispatch, logistics, or transportation administration experience (port drayage or agricultural trucking preferred).
• Familiarity with eModal, or comparable freight/terminal platforms.
• Working knowledge of FMCSA HOS regulations and California requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office/Excel/Outlook ; comfortable with data entry and reporting.
• Ability to multitask and problem-solve in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Work Environment:

• Primarily office/dispatch desk based, with occasional need to coordinate on-site at facilities or terminals.
• May require early morning or late start times to align with harvest or port gate hours.
• Highly variable start times and after hours may be required.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to sit at a desk and use computer/phone systems for extended periods
• Occasional lifting up to 25 lbs (files, equipment, supplies).

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary range: $23-$25/hour.
• Health benefits, including vision and dental, after the first year. Sick pay after 90 days.
• May develop into a full-time position.