Transportation Planner

Job Title: Interim Transportation Specialist (Contract)Duration: 6–12 MonthsCompensation: Up to $52/hour + Benefits (BCBS)Other: Paid Holidays, PTO, 401k, HybridLocation: Near Evanston, ILIndustry: ManufacturingWe are partnering with a well-established and growing manufacturer with over 100 years of industry success to identify an Interim Transportation Specialist. This is a high-impact, contract opportunity where you will play a key role in stabilizing and optimizing transportation and logistics operations while supporting ongoing operational growth.During the contract period, you will be eligible for benefits including medical (Blue Cross), dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and paid holidays.Key Responsibilities:Transportation & Logistics Execution:Manage day-to-day inbound and outbound transportation operations to support production and customer delivery requirementsCoordinate shipments across multiple modes including LTL, FTL, and parcelEnsure on-time pickup and delivery performance while balancing cost and service levelsAct as the primary point of contact for carriers, freight brokers, and third-party logistics providers (3PLs)Resolve escalated shipping, delivery, and logistics issues in real timeCarrier & Freight Management:Analyze freight spend and identify cost-saving opportunities across transportation networksNegotiate rates and service agreements with carriers and logistics providersMonitor carrier performance using KPIs and drive corrective actions where neededOptimize routing, consolidation, and load planning strategiesCompliance & Documentation:Ensure compliance with all transportation regulations, documentation, and shipping requirementsMaintain accurate records for shipments, freight billing, and claims managementSupport audit processes related to transportation and logistics activitiesProcess Improvement & Systems:Evaluate current transportation processes and implement improvements to increase efficiency and scalabilityUtilize ERP/MRP and TMS systems to manage shipment planning, tracking, and reportingDevelop and maintain dashboards to monitor transportation performance metricsPartner cross-functionally with procurement, planning, warehouse, and customer service teamsQualifications:3–7+ years of experience in transportation, logistics, or supply chain within a manufacturing environmentHands-on experience managing freight, carriers, and shipping operationsStrong understanding of transportation modes, rate structures, and logistics networksExperience with ERP/MRP systems; TMS experience is a plusAbility to operate in a fast-paced, hands-on environment with minimal ramp-up timeStrong problem-solving, communication, and organizational skillsWhy This Opportunity:Join a stable, century-old manufacturer experiencing growth and transformationHigh-visibility role with immediate impact on logistics and customer delivery performanceCompetitive hourly rate with full benefits during the contract period