Intermodal Dispatch Lead — Fleet Planning & Service

Forward Air Corp.; Obetz (OH); On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a Dispatcher - Intermodal in Obetz, OH, to oversee planning, scheduling, and strategic coordination of customer freight. The role requires independent judgment, strong communication, and collaboration with drivers to maximize fleet performance.

You will manage loads, monitor service levels, and provide operational guidance to ensure safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. This on-site position operates weekdays with a competitive pay rate.

Qualifications

• Education: Undergraduate degree preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Strong analytical and operational decision-making abilities.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in daily operations.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience building driver relationships and dispatch coordination.
• Familiarity with dispatch systems; AS400 is a plus.
• Experience in transportation or load planning preferred.
• Discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.
• Proficient with Microsoft O365 and common office technologies.
• On-site work and travel as needed for meetings.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, scheduling, and dispatching to maximize fleet efficiency.
• Serve as primary operational decision-maker for assigned Independent Contractors.
• Monitor containers to prevent demurrage and storage fees.
• Provide detailed instructions via email and phone to personnel.
• Accept and schedule loads while delivering excellent customer service.
• Make routing decisions balancing customer expectations and company finances.
• Develop driver relationships to support retention and performance.
• Analyze shipment data and adjust plans to maintain service levels.
• Identify root causes and implement corrective actions for issues.
• Communicate capacity constraints and service solutions to customers.
• Monitor driver hours, performance, and compliance for safety and legality.
• Collaborate with sales and service to design service solutions.
• Suggest process improvements to enhance fleet reliability.
• Provide guidance and training to dispatch staff.

Skills

Analytical skills

Independent judgment

Strong communication

AS400 experience

Transportation industry experience

Office software proficiency

Education

Undergraduate degree (preferred)

Tools

AS400

Dispatch systems

Microsoft O365

Job description

Forward Air Corp. is seeking a Dispatcher - Intermodal in Obetz, OH, to oversee planning, scheduling, and strategic coordination of customer freight. The role requires independent judgment, strong communication, and collaboration with drivers to maximize fleet performance.

You will manage loads, monitor service levels, and provide operational guidance to ensure safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. This on-site position operates weekdays with a competitive pay rate.