Transportation Coordinator, MI

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Title: Transportation Coordinator

Reports to: Transportation Manager

Location: Benton Harbor, MI

Type: Full-Time | Onsite | Non-Exempt

LOCATION AND COMPANY SUMMARY

Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, Benton Harbor offers a unique blend of affordability, opportunity, and lakeside living that’s hard to beat. Just minutes from the charming waterfront community of St. Joseph (less than a 20-minute drive), residents enjoy easy access to sandy beaches, boutique shopping, and year-round festivals. The area is also within a short drive of South Haven (about 30 minutes) and under two hours from Chicago, making weekend getaways effortless.

With nearby wineries, golf courses, and outdoor recreation, plus a growing local food and arts scene, Benton Harbor delivers a laid-back lifestyle with big-city access—perfect for professionals looking to grow their careers without sacrificing quality of life.

At Pero Transport, LLC, we are committed to operating a world-class transportation and logistics organization that ensures our customers receive best-in-class customer service. We strive to always provide on-time and efficient deliveries and make a point to offer the best, most personal service to each of our customers. We are large enough to handle any shipper or receiver’s needs, while still providing the personal relationship and communication that is essential to your business.

JOB SUMMARY

The Transportation Coordinator is responsible for managing the daily logistics operations to ensure the safe, timely, and efficient delivery of fresh produce. This role includes coordinating with drivers, third-party logistics providers, and production teams to meet quality and safety standards while optimizing costs. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and well-versed in the nuances of transporting perishable goods.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinate Daily Shipments: Schedule and monitor shipments to ensure timely and accurate delivery of fresh produce from the manufacturing site to distribution centers, retail outlets, and customers.
• Vendor and Carrier Management: Develop relationships with third-party carriers, negotiate rates, and ensure compliance with company standards, including food safety and temperature control requirements.
• Order Tracking & Documentation: Monitor all shipments in transit, update tracking logs, and maintain accurate shipping records, documentation, and compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, USDA).
• Scheduling and Routing: Optimize delivery routes and schedules to minimize transit time and reduce costs, while ensuring that fresh produce arrives at its destination in peak condition.
• Quality and Compliance: Ensure all shipments meet industry and company quality standards, including temperature control, hygiene, and handling protocols for perishable goods.
• Cost Optimization: Analyze transportation costs and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or delivery timelines.
• Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for all transportation-related inquiries, providing real-time updates to internal teams and customers as needed.
• Problem Resolution: Address and resolve any delivery or shipment-related issues, including delays, damage, or non-compliance, working quickly to prevent losses or delays in the supply chain.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Primarily office-based, monitoring and coordinating transportation operations via phone, email, or computer systems.
• Standard business hours apply; occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required to meet transportation schedules or resolve issues.
• Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment requiring multitasking, problem-solving, and quick decision-making.
• Frequent interaction with drivers, carriers, warehouse personnel, logistics teams, and internal departments.
• Exposure to high-pressure situations, such as shipment delays, route changes, or operational disruptions.
• May require occasional travel to terminals, distribution centers, or other operational sites.
• Must adhere to safety regulations, transportation policies, and company procedures.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer or phone.
• Frequent use of office equipment such as computers, phones, printers, and scanners.
• Occasional walking, standing, or bending when accessing files, meeting with staff, or visiting transportation sites.
• Ability to lift or carry light materials, such as binders, reports, or office supplies (typically up to 15–20 pounds).
• Vision (corrected or uncorrected) sufficient to read computer screens, maps, schedules, and documentation.
• Hearing and speech ability sufficient for clear communication with drivers, logistics personnel, and internal teams.
• Ability to maintain focus and attention for extended periods in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field (preferred)
• 2+ years of experience in transportation coordination, preferably in the fresh produce or perishable goods sector
• Knowledge of transportation regulations, including USDA, FDA, and HACCP guidelines for food safety
• Proficiency in logistics software and systems (e.g., TMS, ERP)
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to identifying and addressing logistics challenges

COMPANY BENEFITS/PERKS

• 401(k)
• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance and more
• Paid Time Off (PTO)

The company (Pero) reserves the right to alter, amend, expand or contract these duties and responsibilities as the companies needs evolve.