Dispatcher

PORT DISPATCHER

Department: Transportation – Port Operations

Location: Falcon Facility – Wilmington, CA

Classification: Full-Time, Non-Exempt

Reports To

Port Operations Supervisor

Position Summary

Ecology Auto Parts Inc., an industry leader in transportation services and logistics solutions, is actively seeking a dynamic Port Dispatcher to join our growing Port Division. Our new Port Dispatcher will play a crucial role in managing the efficient and timely movement of containers to and from the port. Th Dispatcher will act as the primary liaison between port authorities, drivers, and customers to ensure smooth operations and exceptional service delivery.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in intermodal drayage operations and a keen understanding of port/terminal processes. The Dispatcher will be responsible for managing dispatch schedules, coordinating shipment updates, handling exceptions, and providing outstanding customer support in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Driver Assignment & Load Optimization:

• Assign drivers to loads based on delivery plans, ensuring maximum efficiency and on-time performance. Maximize driver opportunities by planning routes that enhance productivity and reduce downtime.

Customer & Driver Relations:

• Develop and maintain proactive relationships with customers by providing clear communication and transparent updates. Serve as the primary point of contact for drivers, ensuring they have all necessary dispatch information and support.

Dispatch Management:

• Manage dispatch documentation, including load confirmations and delivery details, ensuring all paperwork is properly filed and communicated to port authorities, drivers, and internal stakeholders.

Exception Handling:

• Monitor and manage delivery exceptions, taking swift action to resolve issues. Coordinate with drivers, port personnel, and customers to ensure delays are minimized, and service levels are maintained.

Shipment Tracking & ETA Calculations:

• Use tracking tools and software to monitor container locations, providing real-time updates to customers and internal teams. Accurately calculate estimated arrival times (ETAs) and adjust schedules as needed to meet operational demands.

Data Management & Software Use:

• Input and update shipment details, schedules, and status information into the company database/software system. Ensure data is accurate, up to date, and accessible to all relevant teams.

High-Volume Communication:

• Manage high levels of inbound and outbound communication via email and phone. Provide professional, courteous service to internal teams, drivers, port officials, and external customers.

Problem-Solving & Support:

• Address operational challenges with a solution-oriented approach. Provide timely problem resolution to mitigate any potential disruptions to service, coordinating closely with the team to close any coverage gaps.

Rotational "On-Call" Coverage:

• Participate in an “on-call” rotation to provide dispatch support during nights, weekends, and holidays, ensuring 24/7 operational coverage.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications/Knowledge/Critical Skills

Experience:

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in intermodal drayage operations, including familiarity with port/terminal congestion patterns and processing times.
• Proven experience managing drivers and dispatch operations in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

Technical Skills:

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, typing, and dispatch software (e.g., Profit Tools).
• Ability to use tracking tools to monitor shipments and provide real-time location updates.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively manage multiple stakeholders, including drivers, customers, and port personnel.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is preferred.

Problem-Solving:

• A keen problem-solver who can quickly assess situations, provide solutions, and maintain calm under pressure.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances while maintaining focus on customer service and operational efficiency.

Attention to Detail & Organization:

• Meticulous attention to detail in managing dispatch records, shipment tracking, and communication logs.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple drivers, loads, and customer expectations simultaneously.

Punctuality & Motivation:

• Self-motivated with a high degree of reliability and punctuality, ensuring that all dispatch activities are conducted efficiently and on schedule.

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors

Office Setting:

• This role is primarily office-based with continuous use of a computer. You will be seated for extended periods and will engage in frequent communication with team members, drivers, and customers.

Hours & Rotational On-Call Shifts:

• The typical workday ranges from 9 to 11 hours, with longer shifts during peak months. You will be required to participate in a rotational schedule for “on-call” coverage during nights, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Demands:

• The role requires frequent use of hands for typing and handling documents. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. Occasionally, you will need to lift and move items up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close and distance vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Also occasionally required to stand and walk.

Schedule

Monday – Friday; 5:00PM – 3:00 AM

Compensation

The Dispatcher position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $20.00 to $24.00, depending on experience (DOE). In addition to the base pay, we provide a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401k plan with employer matching, generous paid time off, and life insurance coverage. The final compensation will be determined based on the candidate's relevant experience, qualifications, and skills, reflecting our commitment to offering a competitive and rewarding remuneration package for this essential role.

PLEASE NOTE: This job description is not exhaustive and is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.

Ecology Auto Parts Inc. is committed to providing a workplace and culture of respect, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are dedicated to ensuring equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. Should you have a disability or specific needs requiring accommodation, please inform us.

Thank you for your interest in opportunities with Ecology Auto Parts, Inc. We appreciate the enthusiasm and professionalism demonstrated by individuals seeking to join our team.Please be advised that Ecology Auto Parts, Inc. does not engage with or entertain solicitations from third-party recruiting firms for our hiring needs. We have a dedicated internal recruitment team managing our talent acquisition process. We kindly request that third-party recruitment firms refrain from submitting candidates for our open positions. Ecology Auto Parts, Inc. will not consider or entertain candidates represented by headhunter agencies for our current requisitions. Our commitment to fair and equitable hiring practices includes working directly with candidates who apply through our official channels. We believe in fostering a transparent and direct relationship with potential team members.

We appreciate your understanding and compliance with this policy. If you are interested in joining Ecology Auto Parts, Inc., please visit our official careers page here: EAP, Inc. | Career Center for a list of our current job opportunities and application instructions.

Salary Description

$20 - $24 / hour