Logistics Manager – Rail, Truck & Barge Transportation

Location: Little Rock, AR

We are currently in search of a skilled Logistics Manager to supervise the transportation operations of a prominent industrial facility in Little Rock, Arkansas. This role necessitates practical experience in overseeing multimodal freight transportation, specifically involving rail, over-the-road trucking, and inland waterway barge operations. The ideal candidate will be responsible for streamlining freight costs, handling carrier relationships, and ensuring the efficient and timely movement of materials and goods.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage inbound and outbound transportation using rail, truck, and barge.
• Coordinate railcar scheduling, barge shipments, and over-the-road freight movements.
• Negotiate freight rates, oversee carrier contracts, and keep track of transportation costs and performance KPIs.
• Build relationships with railroad operators, barge companies, freight brokers, and transportation providers.
• Optimize rail, port, and transloading operations to enhance delivery performance and reduce costs.
• Supervise shipping documentation, including bills of lading, rail and barge manifests, and international shipping paperwork.
• Coordinate inventory movements between facilities, warehouses, yards, and customer locations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant DOT, FRA, and transportation regulations.
• Utilize ERP and Transportation Management Systems (TMS) to monitor shipments and analyze freight performance.
• Lead continuous improvement projects focused on logistics efficiency, cost reduction, and carrier performance.

Required Qualifications

• 5–7+ years of experience in logistics, preferably in heavy industrial or large-scale transportation settings.
• Practical experience coordinating rail, truck, and inland waterway barge transportation.
• Thorough understanding of railcar scheduling, railroad coordination, and rail fleet operations.
• Experience managing barge transportation on inland river systems.
• Experience negotiating freight contracts and overseeing third-party transportation providers.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and transportation management software.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Mississippi and Arkansas River transportation networks.
• Familiarity with port operations, transloading, and intermodal logistics.
• Knowledge of international shipping, customs, and export compliance.
• Lean supply chain or Six Sigma training or certification.