Senior Agent Operations Specialist - Challenger (Chicago)

Jobtome; Oak Park (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Challenger Motor Freight is seeking an Agent Operations Specialist to support day‑to‑day operations for independent freight agents. You’ll handle order entry, track and trace, carrier communications, and issue resolution in a team‑oriented, on‑site environment.

With 3 years in freight brokerage, you’ll leverage TMS and Excel/Sheets, coordinate with customers and carriers, and ensure data accuracy while upholding compliance.

Qualifications

• 3 years’ prior work experience in a freight brokerage with truckload and drayage operations.
• Working knowledge of port and rail drayage: appointments, chassis, per diem/demurrage, and related charges.
• Proven short‑notice carrier sourcing across regions, including flatbed and OOG.
• Experience using and updating TMS and Excel/Google Sheets.

Responsibilities

• Order Management: enter and update loads in TMW; confirm pickup/delivery details; keep shipment data accurate.
• Customer Service Support: communicate with customers, provide updates, respond to inquiries, and escalate as needed.
• Carrier Procurement & Relationship Management: source capacity, negotiate rates, manage relationships, assign carriers.
• Documentation & Compliance: collect and maintain documentation; track charges and billing readiness.
• Systems & Reporting: use TMS/Synergize to track shipments and generate reports when requested.
• Back Up Agent Support and Logistics: cover Agent Support and Carrier Setup when required.

Skills

Collaboration

Independent work

Attention to detail

Deadline oriented

Verbal communication

Professional writing

Customer service

Relationship building

Interpersonal skills

Well-organized

Proactive attitude

Job description

Challenger is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace. We welcome applications from women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and all qualified individuals.

If you require an accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us at and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Challenger Motor Freight Company Profile:

Challenger, part of the Fastfrate Group, is a leading North American transportation and logistics provider, offering Full Truck Load (FTL) services across North America, supported by integrated logistics solutions. With advanced fleet capabilities, modern facilities, and a strong commitment to service excellence, Challenger supports a wide range of industries with safe, reliable, and efficient operations.

Employees at Challenger are part of a performance-driven culture focused on safety, innovation, and continuous improvement. Through advanced technology, ongoing training, and diverse career opportunities across driving, operations, maintenance, logistics, and administration, Challenger provides an environment where motivated individuals can build long‑term, rewarding careers.

Why you’ll love working here:

• A workplace where you can learn, grow, and build your career
• A culture that encourages new ideas and continuous improvement
• Supportive leaders who provide guidance while giving you autonomy
• A team‑focused environment
• A competitive total‑rewards package, including group benefits and a company-sponsored retirement savings plan
• Support for professional memberships, training, and certifications

The Opportunity:

This is your chance to join a team where your work truly makes an impact. In this role, you will contribute directly to the success of our customers, our operations, and the Fastfrate Group as a whole. You’ll work in a supportive environment that values collaboration, problem‑solving, and continuous learning.

Role Summary:

The Agent Operations Specialist is responsible for supporting the day‑to‑day operational success of our independent freight agents. This role handles a wide range of functions, including order entry, track and trace, customer/carrier communication, and issue resolution.

Hours of Work:

Monday to Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm

Work Arrangement:

On‑site

Position Type:

Non‑Union

Employment Status:

Permanent

Compensation:

Salary Range: $50,000 USD + applicable commissions and incentives

Work Location & Environment:

311 W. Superior, Suite 110, Chicago IL;
Office environment

Key Accountabilities:

Order Management

Enter and update loads accurately in TMW. Confirm pickup and delivery details and ensure all shipment data is complete and accurate. Monitor shipments and update status changes as needed.

Customer Service Support

Act as a day‑to‑day extension of the agent's team by communicating with their customers as needed. Provide proactive updates, respond to customer inquiries, and resolve service issues with professionalism. Escalate urgent issues to the agent or appropriate internal team.

Carrier Procurement & Relationship Management

Utilize resources like load boards and existing carrier base to source capacity, negotiate rates and manage carrier relationships Assign carriers to booked loads and send rate confirmations Confirm carrier credentials and compliance with company requirements.

Documentation & Compliance

Ensure all customer and carrier documentation is collected, uploaded, and maintained accurately. Track accessorial charges, PODs, and ensure billing readiness. Support agents in maintaining compliance with internal procedures and industry regulations.

Systems & Reporting

Utilize internal systems (TMS, Synergize, etc.) to track, manage, and document shipments. Generate reports or provide load updates when requested by agents or customers.

Back Up Agent Support and Logistics

Provide coverage for Agent Support and Carrier Set Up when required

Qualifications

Experience:

3 years’ prior work experience in a freight brokerage with truckload and drayage operations Working knowledge of port and rail drayage: appointments, chassis, last free day, per diem/demurrage, pre-pulls, UIIA/SCAC, and how accessorial charges are earned and billed Proven short‑notice carrier sourcing across regions, including flatbed and OOG Experience using and updating TMS and Excel/Google Sheets

Skills & Competencies

Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively and independently with individuals at various levels is required Strong computer skills Ability to work independently on projects Detail and deadline oriented, with the ability to effectively prioritize and multi‑task in a busy environment to meet tight deadlines Strong verbal communication skills, relationship building and interpersonal skills Active listening Professional writing, editing and proofreading skills Strong customer service focus Ability to exercise tact and judgment in managing a diversity of internal and external contacts Proactive attitude and takes initiative Well‑organized, enthusiastic, creative, professional and a positive team member