Job description
NovaTransit Logistics is a premium transportation and logistics partner delivering reliable, high-service freight solutions across the Midwest. We are seeking a results-driven Transportation Operations Manager to lead and optimize our Chicago-region operations.
In this role, you will own end-to-end transportation planning, fleet coordination, and carrier relationships to ensure on-time delivery, safety, and cost efficiency. You will operate at the intersection of data, people, and process to drive measurable improvements.
What you’ll do:
Responsibility
- Lead and supervise all Chicago-region transportation operations, ensuring alignment with service-level agreements and client expectations.
- Develop and optimize route planning, dispatch, and load planning using TMS and data analytics to maximize throughput and minimize costs.
- Monitor fleet performance, maintenance scheduling, telematics, and driver utilization to maximize uptime and reliability.
- Manage carrier sourcing, onboarding, negotiations, and performance management; establish strategic partnerships with a diverse carrier base.
- Coordinate closely with warehouses, 3PLs, and customers to manage inbound/outbound shipments, exceptions, and contingency plans.
- Ensure compliance with DOT regulations, safety protocols, hours-of-service rules, and industry standards; drive a culture of safety and quality.
- Analyze key metrics (OTD, transit times, cost per mile, service levels) and lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and profitability.
Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, logistics, transportation, industrial engineering, or a related field.
- 5+ years in transportation operations, logistics planning, or fleet management; at least 2 years in a people-leadership role.
- Strong analytical abilities with advanced proficiency in Excel, SQL, and TMS (e.g., SAP TMS, Oracle TM) and data visualization tools.
- Demonstrated success in route optimization, cost reduction, and service-level improvements.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and vendor-management skills; proven ability to lead cross-functional teams.
- Solid knowledge of DOT regulations, safety compliance, and ELD requirements; commitment to a culture of safety.
- Problem-solving mindset with the ability to adapt to high-velocity environments and drive change management.