Dispatcher - Local

Forward Air Corporation; Laredo (TX); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corporation in Laredo, TX is seeking a Dispatcher - Local to coordinate freight operations daily. You will enter information, track shipments, and relay updates between drivers and internal teams according to SOPs.

This on-site role emphasizes reliability, strong communication, and familiarity with dispatch systems. Candidates with AS400 experience and a solid attendance record are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to follow established processes in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic problem-solving skills with willingness to escalate issues.
• Comfort using dispatch systems; AS400 experience a plus.
• Reliable and punctual attendance.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate, schedule, and dispatch customer freight using established processes.
• Serve as primary contact for driver communications by phone, Qualcomm, and email.
• Relay instructions to Independent Contractors and document interactions.
• Monitor shipment status and provide updates for on-time delivery.
• Identify basic service issues and escalate to supervisors.
• Maintain records of driver hours, performance, and availability.
• Provide customer updates and route information per guidelines.
• Collaborate with customer service/sales to share shipment status.
• Follow SOPs and compliance requirements.
• Support new drivers with system instructions and guidance.
• Perform data entry, documentation review, and administrative tasks.
• All other duties as assigned.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Problem solving

Reliability

Professionalism

Attendance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

AS400

Dispatch software

Microsoft O365

Job description

Job Description

Dispatcher - Local supports day‑to‑day freight coordination by following established procedures to schedule, assign, and track shipments. This role focuses on accurately entering information, monitoring shipment progress, and communicating routine updates between drivers and internal teams. The Dispatcher provides direct support to Independent Contractors by responding to questions, relaying instructions, and escalating issues to leadership as needed. Work is performed within defined guidelines, SOPs, and systems. This position plays a critical role in maintaining timely, accurate freight movement and exceptional driver and customer service.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine coordination, scheduling, and dispatching of customer freight using established processes and systems
• Serve as the primary point of contact for driver communications via phone, Qualcomm, and email
• Relay instructions and updates to Independent Contractors and document interactions in internal systems
• Monitor shipment status and provide updates to ensure on‑time delivery
• Identify basic service issues and identify concerns to supervisors for resolution
• Maintain accurate records of driver hours, performance, and availability
• Provide straightforward customer updates and route information based on set guidelines
• Work collaboratively with customer service/sales to communicate shipment status and assist in resolving routine issues
• Follow all department standard operating procedures (SOPs) and compliance requirements
• Support new drivers by providing system instructions and basic process guidance
• Perform data entry, documentation review, and administrative tasks to support fleet operations
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Ability to follow established processes in a fast‑paced environment
• Basic problem‑solving skills with willingness to elevate issues appropriately
• Comfort using dispatch systems; AS400 experience a plus
• Ability to maintain professionalism when working with drivers and internal partners
• Transportation or dispatch experience preferred
• Demonstrated reliability and commitment to attendance and schedule requirements
• Technical: Proficient in Microsoft O365 and common office technologies
• Environment: Must be able to work on‑site and commute reliably to the assigned location