Our client, a well-established manufacturing organization in the Grant, MI area, is seeking a Transportation Supply Chain Specialist to play a critical role in optimizing inbound logistics, transportation strategies, and overall supply chain efficiency. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, data-driven environment and enjoys owning initiatives that directly impact cost savings, operational performance, and supplier reliability.  In this role, you'll take the lead on analyzing and improving transportation and warehousing strategies across multiple divisions. You'll collaborate closely with materials management and purchasing teams, drive freight cost reduction initiatives, and ensure efficient product flow from suppliers to manufacturing operations. This is a high-impact position with strong visibility and the opportunity to influence supply chain performance at a strategic level.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze transportation and distribution methods to identify the most cost-effective and efficient inbound logistics strategies
• Procure and manage external trucking and transportation services, ensuring compliance with U.S. and international regulations
• Oversee milk run programs, adjusting frequency and routing to maintain optimal cost and efficiency
• Evaluate and optimize ocean freight shipments, including container utilization and monthly cost reviews
• Develop and maintain ocean shipment tracking tools to ensure on-time delivery across ocean, rail, and truck modes
• Identify and implement consolidation opportunities to reduce inbound freight costs
• Lead supply chain cost reduction initiatives across multiple divisions
• Source and manage third-party warehousing, including cost-benefit analysis and performance monitoring
• Audit shipping practices and address exceptions through corrective actions with internal teams
• Monitor supplier on-time delivery performance and implement scoring systems to drive accountability
• Track and eliminate component stock-outs through proactive reporting and cross-functional collaboration
• Analyze internal and external warehouse costs and recommend process improvements
• Continuously identify and implement supply chain optimization and cost-saving initiatives

Qualifications

• Associate's degree strongly preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in supply chain, logistics, or transportation
• Strong understanding of transportation, warehousing, and container utilization principles
• Advanced Excel and computer skills, including database creation and management
• Proven ability to analyze data, identify opportunities, and implement process improvements
• Experience developing and executing transportation strategies (domestic and international)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills across cross-functional teams and external partners
• Ability to work independently with minimal direction while aligning to broader organizational goals

Preferred Experience

• Experience in a manufacturing environment
• Exposure to international shipping and ocean freight management
• Background in managing third-party logistics providers (3PLs)
• Familiarity with supply chain performance metrics and reporting tools
• Experience supporting multi-site or multi-division operations

What Sets You Up for Success

• Strong sense of ownership and accountability
• Highly organized with excellent time management skills
• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving abilities
• Adaptability in a dynamic, fast-changing environment
• Comfortable managing global communication, including occasional off-hours coordination

Titles Encouraged to Apply

• Logistics Analyst
• Transportation Analyst
• Supply Chain Analyst
• Inbound Logistics Specialist
• Freight Optimization Specialist
• Materials Planning Specialist
• Supply Chain Coordinator