Operations Assistant

About the role

The Operations Assistant plays a critical role in maintaining the speed, accuracy, and reliability of day-to-day terminal operations. This position exists to ensure freight flows without disruption, operational data remains accurate in real time, and cross-functional teams are aligned on execution.

Responsibilities

• Drive operational coordination and load visibility
• Track outbound loads daily and ensure system updates are accurate and timely
• Proactively communicate delays to leadership and cross-functional stakeholders before 11 AM
• Maintain pickup schedules and investigate loads that have not departed by 10 AM
• Escalate operational risks and delays to Linehaul and leadership with clear context
• Execute administrative and documentation workflows
• Manage driver documentation, including IC paperwork, plates, IFTA, and compliance materials
• Capture and route maintenance records to Safety to ensure compliance standards are met
• Manifest inbound and outbound freight, ensuring documentation accuracy across systems
• File and maintain exception reports and operational records
• Schedule delivery appointments, including direct deliveries and diverts
• Coordinate redeliveries and obtain ACR (Additional Charge Request) authorization
• Enter ACRs into systems with precision to ensure financial and operational alignment
• Partner with brokers to secure rates for non-service point returns
• Resolve operational exceptions and improve throughput
• Trace freight and investigate shipment issues across terminals and agent networks
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to resolve delivery disruptions
• Identify recurring issues and escalate patterns that impact service performance
• Support all terminals with system-related and operational inquiries
• Maintain operational infrastructure and team efficiency
• Monitor functionality of printers and administrative equipment within operations
• Preset appointments for inbound freight and linehaul contractors
• Contribute to team-based operational goals and continuous improvement efforts

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; equivalent experience considered
• 1–3 months of relevant administrative or operations experience preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact across all levels
• Basic computer proficiency; familiarity with AS/400, Microsoft Office, and imaging tools preferred
• Foundational math skills and comfort working with weights, distances, and monetary values
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow written and verbal instructions
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills in a fast-paced environment
• Capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously with attention to detail
• Problem-solving ability in situations with limited standardization
• Hazardous Materials Handling certification preferred
• Experience in transportation, logistics, or terminal operations is a plus

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• 1–3 months of relevant administrative or operations experience preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Basic computer proficiency
• Foundational math skills
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow written and verbal instructions
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills
• Problem-solving ability
• Hazardous Materials Handling certification
• Experience in transportation, logistics, or terminal operations

Skills

• Operational Coordination
• Load Visibility
• Communication
• Administrative Workflow Management
• Driver Documentation
• Operational Risk Management
• Exception Reporting
• Delivery Execution
• Customer Commitment Support
• Redelivery Coordination
• Financial Alignment
• Brokerage Collaboration
• Operational Exception Resolution
• Throughput Improvement
• System Maintenance
• Team Collaboration
• Problem Solving
• Physical Demands Compliance

Benefits

Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off

Pay

$18.00 to $20.00 per hour

Schedule

Onsite – Chicago, IL