FREIGHT & PORT DISPATCHER

Job Summary

The Freight & Port Dispatcher coordinates daily driver assignments, container/load movements, and terminal appointments across port drayage and freight hauling operations. This hybrid role combines live dispatch responsibilities with administrative functions including compliance recordkeeping, reporting, and cross-departmental coordination.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Dispatch Operations:

Assign drivers and equipment to daily loads, balancing port drayage runs with freight hauling schedules.
Monitor and manage container appointments via eModal for import/export moves across terminals (TraPac, SSA/OICT, Everport, etc.).
Track driver location, ETAs, and terminal transaction times.
Communicate load changes, delays, and route adjustments to drivers in real time.
Coordinate street turns and equipment repositioning with ocean carriers (CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk, MSC, Evergreen, Yang Ming, COSCO, etc.).
Resolve day-of issues: mechanical breakdowns, terminal congestion, missed appointments, chassis shortages, etc.
Monitor driver Hours of Service (HOS) via ELD (Samsara) to ensure FMCSA compliance and avoid violations.
Coordinate with facility/freight operations to align truck flow with intake capacity during peak season.

Administrative Duties:

Maintain accurate dispatch logs, load records, and terminal transaction documentation.
Prepare and distribute daily/weekly reports.
Process and file paperwork related to bill of ladings, invoicing, delivery receipts, and inspection reports.
Support driver file maintenance and compliance documentation (DOT, HOS, meal break records).
Assist with data entry and updates in TomatoStar or other internal freight/logistics systems.
Support scheduling, timekeeping, or other administrative tasks as operations require.
Seasonal administrative support across multiple operational areas.

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent; some college or logistics coursework a plus.
1–3 years of dispatch, logistics, or transportation administration experience (port drayage or agricultural trucking preferred).
Familiarity with eModal, or comparable freight/terminal platforms.
Working knowledge of FMCSA HOS regulations and California requirements.
Strong written and verbal communication skills; bilingual English/Spanish preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office/Excel/Outlook; comfortable with data entry and reporting.
Ability to multitask and problem-solve in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Work Environment:

Primarily office/dispatch desk based, with occasional need to coordinate on-site at facilities or terminals.
May require early morning or late start times to align with harvest or port gate hours.
Highly variable start times and after hours may be required.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to sit at a desk and use computer/phone systems for extended periods
Occasional lifting up to 25 lbs (files, equipment, supplies).

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary range: $23-$25/hour.
Health benefits, including vision and dental, after the first year. Sick pay after 90 days.
May develop into a full-time position.

The Morning Star Company

Freight & Port Dispatcher

About the Job