Logistics Operations Manager — Chicagoland
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Salary Range: $70,000 to $90,000 per year
Position Summary
A fast-growing freight brokerage and third-party logistics provider is seeking an experienced Logistics Operations Manager to lead daily operations across a dynamic and high-volume transportation environment. This is an exceptional opportunity for a driven logistics professional to step into a leadership role within one of the most strategically important freight markets in North America. Chicago serves as a critical hub for rail, trucking, and intermodal transportation, making this position both challenging and highly rewarding for candidates who thrive in fast-paced operational settings.
The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in freight brokerage or third-party logistics operations, demonstrated leadership experience, and a passion for building efficient, scalable processes. You will be responsible for managing a team of logistics coordinators and operations specialists, ensuring that shipments move smoothly from origin to destination while maintaining the highest standards of customer service and carrier relationship management. This role offers significant career growth potential as the organization continues to expand its footprint across domestic and cross-border freight lanes.
Core Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end daily freight operations including load planning, carrier dispatching, tracking, and exception management
• Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of operations coordinators and logistics specialists
• Monitor key performance indicators including on-time delivery rates, load coverage percentages, and margin performance
• Build and maintain strong relationships with carrier partners, negotiating rates and capacity commitments
• Collaborate closely with sales and account management teams to ensure client expectations are consistently met or exceeded
• Identify operational inefficiencies and implement process improvements to drive productivity and cost savings
• Manage escalations, shipment exceptions, and customer complaints with professionalism and urgency
• Ensure compliance with Department of Transportation regulations and internal standard operating procedures
• Generate and present operational performance reports to senior leadership on a regular basis
• Support onboarding and training of new team members as the organization scales

Must-Have Requirements

• Minimum four years of experience in freight brokerage, third-party logistics, or transportation management
• At least two years in a supervisory or team lead capacity within a logistics or supply chain environment
• Proficiency with transportation management systems and freight brokerage platforms
• Strong understanding of full truckload, less-than-truckload, and intermodal freight operations
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment
• Solid analytical skills with experience using data to drive operational decisions
• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, business, logistics, or a related field preferred but not required with equivalent experience

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive base salary ranging from $70,000 to $90,000 annually, commensurate with experience
• Performance-based bonus structure tied to operational and financial targets
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
• Employer-sponsored life insurance and disability coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions
• Generous paid time off policy including vacation, sick leave, and observed holidays
• Flexible scheduling options and hybrid work arrangements available after initial onboarding period
• Professional development funding including industry certifications and continuing education
• Clear pathway to senior leadership roles as the organization grows
• Collaborative and supportive team culture that values innovation and continuous improvement