Transportation Operations Manager

ML Transportation LLC; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Employee assistance program

Job summary

ML Transportation LLC in Pennsylvania seeks an experienced Transportation Operations Manager to lead day-to-day truckload operations, supervise dispatchers, driver managers, and equipment technicians, and ensure safe, efficient, and compliant execution. This role reports to the President and drives performance metrics while coordinating with leadership.

The ideal candidate has a proven track record in fleet operations, loads planning, and 24/7 operational management, with a strong emphasis on

Qualifications

• Experience leading or supervising dispatch teams
• Proven ability to manage day-to-day transportation operations
• Familiarity with FMCSA regulations and safety compliance
• Strong communication and coaching skills

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily transportation operations including load planning and dispatch
• Lead and coach dispatchers, driver managers, and technicians
• Manage driver workforce hiring, orientation, and performance
• Optimize asset utilization and minimize empty miles
• Ensure TMS usage, ELD compliance, and operational reporting
• Drive on-time performance and safety across the operation
• Collaborate on strategic capacity planning and process improvements
• Enforce safety standards and company policies

Skills

Leadership

Dispatch

Team management

Communication

Operational planning

Education

High school diploma

Tools

TMS

Job description

About ML Transportation

ML Transportationis a Pennsylvania-based company with a 50+ year history in transportation and warehousing. Our fast-growing Fleet is looking forFullandPart Time Driversto join us at our facility in Watsontown. Full time is Monday - Friday and every other weekend. Part time is a great opportunity for retired drivers or others to work 1-3 days each week, you chose the days. Easy no-touch loads to deliver directly to distribution centers and warehouses.

Compensation

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Transportation Operations Manager to oversee all day-to-day operations of the company. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for the smooth, profitable, and compliant execution of truckload operations. The successful candidate will report directly to the President of ML Transportation and will oversee the team of dispatchers, driver managers, and equipment technicians while serving as the primary operational leader for dispatch, driver management, equipment utilization, and customer service execution.

Key Responsibilities

• • Oversee and direct all daily transportation operations, including load planning, dispatch, scheduling, and real-time problem resolution.
  • Lead and manage the team of dispatchers, driver managers, and equipment technicians, including performance management, coaching, scheduling, and accountability.
  • Manage driver workforce: hiring support, orientation coordination, performance management, retention, communication, and discipline consistent with company standards and FMCSA regulations.
  • Optimize driver and equipment utilization, including tractor and trailer assignment, maintenance coordination, and maximizing loaded miles while controlling empty miles and detention.
  • Ensure accurate and timely use of the company’s Transportation Management System (TMS) and related software for load tracking, document management, ELD compliance, and operational reporting.
  • Maintain strong working knowledge of trucks, trailers, and related equipment to support troubleshooting, inspections, and coordination with maintenance and equipment technicians.
  • Drive on-time performance, safety compliance, and customer service excellence through proactive communication with drivers, customers, and internal teams.
  • Monitor key performance indicators (on-time delivery, utilization, safety metrics, cost per mile, etc.) and implement continuous improvement actions.
  • Collaborate with the President on operational strategy, capacity planning, and process improvements.
  • Enforce company policies, safety standards, and regulatory compliance across the operation.

  • Lead by example in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment focused on results and professional culture.

Required Qualifications

• • Substantial experience in truckload (FTL) transportation operations, preferably in a leadership or senior dispatch/operations role.
  • Proven strength in driver dispatch, scheduling, and day-to-day driver management.
  • Experience leading or supervising teams (dispatchers, driver managers, or similar operational staff preferred).
  • Familiarity with Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and related transportation software platforms.
  • Working knowledge of commercial trucks, trailers, and equipment.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to lead, coach, and hold people accountable.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a 24/7 operational environment.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or professional certifications a plus.
  • Must be able to work full-time on-site at the Watsontown, PA corporate offices with no remote work option.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a background check and drug screen.

Preferred Qualifications

• • Prior experience managing a multi-driver truckload fleet and operational support teams.
  • Knowledge of FMCSA regulations, ELDs, hours-of-service, and safety compliance.
  • Experience with performance metrics, cost control, and operational reporting.
  • Demonstrated ability to improve retention, utilization, and service levels.

What We Offer

Competitive compensation commensurate with experience, opportunity for growth in a growing regional carrier, and the chance to make a direct impact on day-to-day operations while reporting to senior leadership.

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person