About the Role

We are seeking a hands-on Logistics Manager to lead and optimize all freight operations for a growing manufacturing company located in Elkhart, Indiana. This position reports directly to the Vice President of Operations and owns both inbound and outbound transportation activities.

In this role, you will work closely with freight brokers, dealers, production, and third-party partners to ensure shipments move efficiently, cost-effectively, and on time. The business ships approximately 10–20 loads per week, primarily via flatbed and standard freight. This is an ideal opportunity for someone coming from a brokerage, 3PL, or manufacturing logistics environment who understands how to structure loads, manage freight spend, and drive margin through smart transportation decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all inbound and outbound freight operations, including flatbed and standard shipments
• Source, negotiate, and manage relationships with freight brokers and third-party carriers (no company-owned fleet)
• Optimize load planning to maximize utilization, reduce cost, and improve freight margin
• Own freight P&L performance, including cost control, margin improvement, and budgeting support
• Coordinate closely with production, dealers, customers, and site teams to align shipping schedules and priorities
• Arrange customer and dealer shipments and serve as the primary point of contact for logistics coordination
• Oversee logistics documentation, shipping paperwork, and compliance requirements
• Track shipments, resolve issues, and proactively manage delays or disruptions
• Develop and maintain freight processes, metrics, and reporting to improve performance and visibility
• Continuously evaluate carriers, lanes, and routing strategies to improve service and reduce cost
• Provide clear communication across internal teams and external partners
• Support growth initiatives by scaling freight strategies as volume increases

What We’re Looking For

• 3–7+ years of experience in logistics, transportation, freight brokerage, or supply chain (manufacturing experience a plus)
• Strong understanding of flatbed and standard freight, load planning, and carrier management
• Experience working with freight brokers and third-party carriers (non-asset-based environment)
• Demonstrated ability to manage freight costs, margins, and transportation performance
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities
• Excellent communication skills—comfortable working with customers, dealers, vendors, and internal teams
• Experience with logistics documentation, shipping paperwork, and transportation processes
• Proficient with ERP, TMS, or logistics/shipping systems (or strong aptitude to learn)
• Hands-on, proactive, and business-minded approach to logistics and operations

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary with performance-based bonus/incentive opportunity
• Strong benefits package
• Long-term growth opportunity within a stable, growing manufacturing company