Dispatcher - Intermodal

Forward Air Corporation; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 55,800 - 68,200; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corporation is seeking a Dispatcher - Intermodal in Dallas, Texas, to manage the efficient planning and coordination of customer freight. This individual will oversee operational activities ensuring service performance and operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate should possess strong decision-making skills and have experience in the transportation industry. Compensation starts at $62,000 annually with responsibilities including monitoring shipments and training less experienced dispatch staff.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Advanced decision-making abilities required.
• Transportation industry or load-planning experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, scheduling, and dispatching activities.
• Serve as primary point of contact for Independent Contractors.
• Monitor containers and prevent fees from demurrage.
• Analyze shipment data and adjust plans proactively.
• Communicate customer expectations and service solutions.

Skills

Analytical and operational decision-making skills

Independent judgment

Written and verbal communication

Building professional driver relationships

Proficient in dispatch systems

Technical proficiency in Microsoft O365

Education

Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university

Tools

AS400

Job description

Job Description

Dispatcher - Intermodal oversees the planning, scheduling, and strategic coordination of customer freight to ensure optimal operational efficiency and service performance. This role exercises independent judgment to manage relationships, resolve service issues, allocate resources, and proactively identify improvements that drive fleet performance. They serve as a trusted partner to Independent Contractors and customers, balancing operational capabilities with service expectations. The position requires advanced decision‑making, discretion, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast‑moving environment.

Compensation: $62,000 annually, can be discussed based on experience

Schedule: Monday‑Friday 7:30am‑4:30pm

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, scheduling, and dispatching activities to maximize fleet efficiency and meet customer requirements
• Serve as the primary operational decision‑maker and point of contact for assigned Independent Contractors
• Monitor containers to prevent demurrage and storage fees
• Providing detailed instruction to various personnel via email and phone
• Accepting & scheduling loads and providing excellent customer service
• Make routing decisions that satisfy customer expectations and company financial decisions
• Develop strong, influential relationships with drivers to support retention and performance
• Analyze shipment data and proactively adjust plans to maintain service levels
• Resolve operational challenges by identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions
• Manage customer expectations by communicating capacity constraints and service solutions
• Monitor driver hours, performance, and compliance, making adjustments to ensure safe and legal operations
• Collaborate with sales and customer service to design service solutions and support customer needs
• Recommend process improvements to enhance fleet performance and operational reliability
• Provide guidance, mentoring, and training support to less experienced dispatch personnel
• Prepare performance insights and trends for leadership review
• All other duties as assigned to meet evolving business needs.

Qualifications

• Education: Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university preferred; equivalent experience considered
• Strong analytical and operational decision‑making skills
• Proven ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion in day‑to‑day operations
• Advanced written and verbal communication abilities
• Demonstrated success in building and managing professional driver relationships
• Proficiency in dispatch systems; AS400 experience a plus
• Transportation industry or load‑planning experience strongly preferred
• Demonstrated discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive information
• Technical: Proficient with Microsoft O365 and common office technologies
• Environment: Ability to work on‑site and travel as needed for operational or customer meetings