Logistics Coordinator- Backhaul Operations

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Logistics Coordinator – Backhaul Operations is responsible for supporting the execution and growth of the Michael Lewis Company backhaul program. This role will assist in coordinating transportation activity for returning fleet assets, managing broker and carrier communication, tracking freight movement, and supporting operational reporting and billing functions.

The position plays a key role in maximizing fleet utilization, reducing empty miles, supporting transportation cost control initiatives, and maintaining service levels across the MLCO transportation network.

This role will work closely with the Backhaul & Transportation Development team, MLCO Integrated Logistics, brokers, carriers, and internal operations teams.

Key Responsibilities

Backhaul Operations & Coordination

• Coordinate and schedule backhaul freight for returning MLCO fleet assets
• Monitor and track freight movement across the transportation network
• Communicate with brokers, carriers, drivers, warehouses, and internal stakeholders regarding shipment status and updates
• Assist in identifying backhaul opportunities to improve fleet utilization and reduce empty miles
• Support load planning activities for Chicago and Phoenix distribution centers

Broker & Carrier Management

• Build and maintain relationships with transportation brokers and carriers
• Obtain and review transportation quotes and market pricing
• Assist with carrier sourcing and capacity management
• Ensure timely communication regarding appointments, delays, and service issues
• Assist with accounts payable support for carriers and brokers

Reporting & Administrative Support

• Maintain accurate shipment records and operational documentation
• Assist with freight billing, invoicing, and load reconciliation
• Track transportation metrics including utilization, revenue, and service performance
• Prepare operational reports and data analysis for leadership review
• Support transportation audits and documentation requests

Strategic & Process Support

• Support process improvement efforts focused on transportation efficiency and cost reduction
• Contribute to the continued development of MLCO Integrated Logistics operations
• Help support the long-term growth and scalability of the backhaul program

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced transportation environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and transportation-related systems
• Strong attention to detail and follow-through

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of full truckload (FTL) transportation and logistics terminology
• Experience with transportation management systems (TMS)
• Knowledge of freight tracking and appointment scheduling processes

Key Performance Expectations

• Improve backhaul utilization and load coverage
• Maintain accurate and timely freight tracking updates
• Support transportation cost-control initiatives
• Ensure high levels of service and communication across the network
• Assist leadership with operational visibility and reporting accuracy

Work Schedule & Operational Expectations

Due to the nature of transportation and backhaul operations, this position may require occasional communication and issue resolution outside of normal business hours. Freight delays, service interruptions, scheduling changes, and other operational matters can occur at any time and may require timely response to support service levels and operational continuity.

Team members in this role are expected to:

• Monitor and respond to urgent transportation issues as needed
• Maintain communication with brokers, carriers, and internal operations teams when critical issues arise
• Support after-hours problem resolution related to load execution, service failures, or scheduling changes
• Demonstrate flexibility and responsiveness in a fast-paced transportation environment

While the role’s primary schedule will be established by management, operational needs may occasionally require availability outside standard working hours.

Reporting Structure

• Reports to: Backhaul & Business Development Leadership
• Location: Goodyear / Phoenix Operations
• Department: Transportation / Backhaul Operations

Position Impact

This role directly contributes to:

• Increased transportation revenue
• Reduced empty miles and transportation costs
• Improved fleet utilization
• Operational scalability and continuity
• Support of MLCO Integrated Logistics growth initiatives

The Logistics Coordinator position is a critical operational role that supports both day-to-day transportation execution and the long-term strategic growth of the backhaul program.