Barge Dispatcher - Mt Vernon, IN

Barge Dispatcher - Mt Vernon, IN

At American River Transportation Company (ARTCO), we are proud to be a critical link in ADM's global supply chain network. With a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability, ARTCO operates an extensive fleet of barges, towboats, and terminals that ensure the seamless movement of dry and liquid cargo throughout the inland waterways. We are currently seeking a highly motivated Barge Dispatcher I to join our team in Mount Vernon IN. This role will help manage several harbors throughout the OHR region, ideal for individuals with a strong sense of organization, excellent communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, detail-driven environment. As a Barge Dispatcher, you will play a pivotal role in coordinating vessel movements, ensuring timely barge deliveries, and supporting overall fleet efficiency. If you are eager to contribute to a team that powers one of the world's largest agricultural supply chains, this opportunity offers both challenge and reward.

Key Responsibilities Fleet & Traffic Coordination

• Update vessel positions and barge traffic in IBM and Fleet-com systems.
• Expedite barge movements through daily updates, inquiries, and proactive scheduling.
• Coordinate tow building by assisting harbor tugs on proper configurations needed.

Scheduling & Order Management

• Schedule and book all barges to meet contractual delivery obligations.
• Monitor and update barge placement (constructive placement loads and reloads).
• Notify customers, dispatch, and marine personnel when loaded barges are released for pick-up.
• Manage regional fleet deliveries based on grain facility needs and fleet inventory.
• Construct and distribute night orders to local harbor tugs, following up each day to ensure orders were executed timely and efficiently.

Communication & Collaboration

• Serve as the central point of communication between customers, marine personnel, dispatch teams, and local management.
• Coordinate closely with lead fleet boats to prioritize daily fleet operations.
• Relay critical updates to team and management to ensure seamless shift transitions.

Data Entry & Reporting

• Accurately enter barge data including consignments, re-consignments, unloads, loadings, cleanings, and other operational notes.
• File order sheets, billing records, and related documentation daily.
• Process billing transactions at least twice per day, including miscellaneous and special fleeting functions.
• Support local accounting by managing billing notifications and reconciliations.

Operational Knowledge & Cross-Training

• Develop and maintain a strong understanding of fleet capabilities, horsepower allocation, and inventory management.
• Gain familiarity with mile points along the assigned river segment to support vessel navigation and dispatching.
• Execute all responsibilities in alignment with ADM's Core Values and The ADM Way.

Qualifications & Requirements Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in business, logistics, transportation, or a related field (preferred); equivalent work experience accepted.

Previous marine dispatch experience highly valued. Skills & Competencies

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated aptitude for learning dispatch systems, river operations, and barge scheduling procedures.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for interacting with customers, vessel crews, and cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Monday-Friday 7AM-4PM with flexibility to work extended hours/weekends if needed.
• Comfortable working in an open-office environment requiring multitasking and focus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to remain seated and work on a computer for extended periods.
• Must be able to safely board and exit vessels when needed.

Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings. ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF:111326BR