TITLE: Operations Specialist (Entry-Level)
REPORTS TO: Transportation Manager
LOCATION: Raleigh, NC
SUMMARY: The Operations Specialist provides administrative and operational support to ensure the efficient flow of shipments within the transportation network. This entry‑level role works closely with Sales and internal teams to gather shipment details, coordinate deliveries, track loads, communicate updates, and support basic logistics functions. Ideal candidates will be detail‑oriented, organized, and eager to grow professionally in the logistics field. Prior logistics or TMS experience is preferred but not required for strong, trainable candidates.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Communicate with Sales to obtain any missing or incomplete information needed to process shipments.
- Schedule and confirm delivery appointments with carriers, warehouses, and customers.
- Monitor and update shipment status information, providing proactive updates to Sales and internal stakeholders.
- Ensure proper flow of shipments from pickup to delivery and escalate issues when needed.
- Respond to freight billing questions and assist in resolving invoice discrepancies.
- Support documentation efforts, including updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) and process documentation.
- Accurately maintain shipment records and data within internal systems and any applicable TMS platforms.
- Work collaboratively with internal departments and external partners to troubleshoot routine logistics issues.
KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively liaise with internal teams, external partners, and service providers.
- Solid analytical and problem‑solving skills for assessing shipment details and resolving basic logistical challenges.
- Customer‑service mindset, with the ability to manage inquiries professionally and efficiently.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word).
- Familiarity with Transportation Management Systems or other logistics software preferred but not required.
- Knowledge of basic supply chain or logistics principles preferred but not required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in supply chain, business, logistics, or related field is a plus.
- Prior experience in a logistics, transportation, or supply chain environment preferred but not required.
- Experience using a TMS platform preferred but not required.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Fast-paced office environment
CORE COMPETENCIES AND BEHAVIORS
Team Oriented
- Works cooperatively and collaboratively with others
- Is approachable and open to different opinions and feedback
- Earns the confidence, trust, and respect of others
Communication
- Communicates in an open and honest way
- Builds consensus – solicits input and discusses options with people affected before making decisions
- Keeps others informed, communicates expectations, and shares information
- Listens actively to external and internal customers, while understanding others’ views and needs
Values Driven
- Supports, promotes, and models the values of the L&M Family of Companies (Respect, Passion, Leadership, Excellence … always with Unyielding Integrity)
- Fully aligns with the enterprise and the Company’s Success Model
- Balances entrepreneurial spirit with the needs of others and the Vision of the Company
- Shows a strong work ethic and commitment to the Company
- Treats customers and carriers as business partners