Fleet Load Optimization Lead

Socket.dev; Burr Ridge (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Socket.dev is seeking a Load Planning Manager to maximize revenue and utilization of an asset-based fleet. You will develop 24–72 hour load plans, position trucks for profitability, and minimize empty miles. Collaboration with Dispatch, Sales, and Brokerage is essential to optimize network performance and drive measurable profitability.

The role emphasizes forward planning, rapid decision-making, and accountability for fleet performance across lanes and markets.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of transportation experience preferred.
• Strong asset-based trucking experience required.
• Load planning, dispatch, or fleet operations experience.
• Strong understanding of truckload lanes, rates, driver HOS, appointment requirements, equipment, and market dynamics.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Advanced Excel and TMS experience preferred.
• Ability to make quick, profitable decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication, leadership, and accountability skills.
• Ability to translate fleet data and market information into clear operational decisions.

Responsibilities

• Develop daily and 24–72-hour load plans for the entire fleet.
• Ensure every truck has a planned next move whenever possible before completing its current load.
• Establish and maintain fleet preplanning standards and forward planning visibility.
• Maximize revenue and contribution profit per tractor, per day, and per total mile.
• Reduce empty/deadhead miles and unnecessary repositioning while recognizing when strategic repositioning improves profitability.
• Identify and build continuous moves, reloads, round trips, backhauls, and network-density opportunities.
• Position trucks based on demand, lane strength, seasonality, and market conditions.
• Monitor market trends and lane performance to support planning decisions.

Skills

Load planning

Dispatch experience

Analytical skills

Advanced Excel

TMS experience

Leadership

Tools

Excel

TMS

Job description

Socket.dev is seeking a Load Planning Manager to maximize revenue and utilization of an asset-based fleet. You will develop 24–72 hour load plans, position trucks for profitability, and minimize empty miles. Collaboration with Dispatch, Sales, and Brokerage is essential to optimize network performance and drive measurable profitability.

The role emphasizes forward planning, rapid decision-making, and accountability for fleet performance across lanes and markets.