Transportation Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

TITLE: Transportation Specialist

REPORTS TO: Transportation Manager

LOCATION: Raleigh, NC (Onsite)

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SUMMARY: The Transportation Specialist is responsible for the planning, procurement, execution, and management of transportation services for L&M Companies. This role serves as a critical link between Sales, Transportation, Carriers, Brokers, Customers, and Operations to ensure the timely, cost-effective, and compliant movement of freight. The Freight Specialist is expected to proactively manage shipments from order inception through final delivery while fostering strong carrier and broker relationships that support the long-term transportation strategy of L&M and LMTS.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Collaborate with L&M Sales personnel to secure competitive spot market and contract transportation rates
• Source, negotiate, and secure transportation capacity utilizing approved carriers, LMTS assets, and approved third-party brokers
• Ensure all transportation providers meet L&M and LMTS carrier qualification, safety, insurance, and compliance requirements
• Coordinate and schedule transportation services to ensure timely pickup and delivery of customer shipments
• Track and trace shipments from origin to destination, proactively identifying and resolving service issues before they impact customers
• Ensure all shipments have accurate loading, unloading, and delivery appointments scheduled and confirmed
• Procure and assign the appropriate equipment type based on commodity requirements, customer specifications, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain accurate shipment records and documentation within the Transportation Management System (TMS)
• Develop and maintain proficiency in all transportation systems, technology platforms, and reporting tools utilized by the organization
• Communicate shipment status, delays, exceptions, and critical transportation updates to Sales and other stakeholders in a timely manner
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with carriers, brokers, customers, and internal departments
• Support the growth and alignment of L&M and LMTS by identifying opportunities to leverage internal transportation resources whenever practical
• Develop and expand a diversified carrier network to improve service levels, capacity availability, and transportation efficiency
• Establish and maintain productive partnerships with approved outside brokers while ensuring compliance with L&M transportation policies and service expectations
• Monitor transportation performance and service metrics, identifying trends and recommending process improvements
• Assist in the management of transportation claims, service failures, and freight exceptions.
• Ensure compliance with all company policies, customer requirements, food safety standards, and applicable transportation regulations
• Participate in carrier sourcing initiatives, bid events, and strategic transportation projects.
• Continuously seek opportunities to reduce transportation costs while maintaining service excellence
• Support departmental objectives related to carrier development, service performance, freight optimization, and operational efficiency
• Maintain a high level of professionalism and customer service when interacting with internal and external stakeholders

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills – including the ability to listen effectively – and the ability to think / respond / react appropriately in fluid situations
• Proficiency with Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Microsoft Office, and other transportation technology platforms
• Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills
• Understanding of transportation regulations, carrier compliance requirements, and food safety standards
• Ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to collaborate effectively across departments
• Ability to maintain a high level of ownership, accountability, and attention to detail
• Ability to interpret transportation data, service metrics, and operational reports to support decision-making

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Transportation, Business Administration, or a related field preferred
• Experience in transportation, logistics, freight brokerage, supply chain operations, or a related field preferred
• Experience working with Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and freight management software preferred
• Experience negotiating rates and managing relationships with carriers and brokers preferred
• Experience in produce, refrigerated transportation, or agricultural supply chains preferred

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Dynamic and fast-paced office environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly sits; uses hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talks or hears

CORE COMPETENCIES AND BEHAVIORS

Team Oriented

• Works cooperatively and collaboratively with others
• Is approachable and open to different opinions and feedback
• Earns the confidence, trust, and respect of others

Communication 

• Communicates in an open and honest way
• Builds consensus – solicits input and discusses options with people affected before making decisions
• Keeps others informed, communicates expectations, and shares information
• Listens actively to external and internal customers, while understanding others’ views and needs

Values Driven 

• Supports, promotes, and models the values of the L&M Family of Companies ( Respect, Passion, Leadership, Excellence … always with Unyielding Integrity )
• Fully aligns with the enterprise and the Company’s Success Model
• Balances entrepreneurial spirit with the needs of others and the Vision of the Company
• Shows a strong work ethic and commitment to the Company

Customer Focus

• Treats customers as business partners
• Listens actively to external and internal customers
• Constantly looks for better ways to service customers