Truckload Capacity Planner

Ascend is transforming the regional truckload sector by leveraging technology, building density, and offering driver-friendly routes and policies—making us the carrier of choice for shippers that demand high performance and flexibility at competitive rates, and the employer of choice for drivers seeking a better work-life balance.
JOB TITLE Truckload Capacity Planner CLASSIFICATION Exempt ORGANIZATION Ascend Transportation WORKING CONDITIONS Appendix A DEPARTMENT Operations STATUS Full-time REPORTS TO Regional Operations Manager GRADE 10e PURPOSE The primary accountability of Ascend's Truckload Capacity Planner is for the daily load planning of inbound and outbound freight, including asset utilization.
The Truckload Capacity Planner will identify opportunities to optimize the fleet.
Also to address internal and external customer needs while consistently meeting or exceeding service, empty mile, and trailer pool targets.
ACCOUNTABILITIES • Ensure all customer freight commitments are met.
• Ensure customer service is met through repowering, relaying, or rescheduling freight.
• Accountable for the outbound strategy of tractors inbound to his/her geographic area.
• Limit idle trailers by assigned market of responsibility.
• Ensure trailer pool compliance with customer base in assigned territory.
• Work with FM to ensure driver/truck utilization is maximizing driver hours of service (HOS).
• Maintain customer trailer pools at agreed on set amount.
• Ensure all trailers are accounted for and utilize.
• Ensure all drivers have a preplan 30 minutes before empty call to reduce dwell time.
• Work with all FM to insure you timely PTA from drivers.
• Ensure you have a good handle on your planning area for quick and Work with CSR to ensure every customer is planned with on time pick up and on time delivery.
• Know customer compliance expectations for each account in your service area.
• Manage each customer to their specific metrics for on time service (OTS).
• Manage late warning alerts on your planning screens.
• Ensure we are reducing empty miles in your service area by planning trucks accordingly.
• Utilize truck load wizard and Manhattan to maximize bookings and empty miles.
• Back fill freight needs with broker freight where needed at the best rate possible.
• Utilize Truckload Wizard to optimize freight opportunities.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with Operations Personnel, Drivers, and management of all levels.
• Models and promotes Ascends Values: Zero Safety Events; Be Courageous; Act with Integrity; Inspire Trust; Teamwork; Have Fun and Build a Legacy.
QUALIFICATIONS • Minimum 1 year in fleet operations or transportation experience.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND TRAITS • Working knowledge of DOT regulations.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to deliver exceptional service through positive engagement and patience.
• Ability to work in a team environment to continuously improve results.
• Ability to negotiate under difficult circumstances both internally and externally.
• Ability to manage multiple and diverse customer relationships.
• Ability to balance multiple activities during a given time period.
• Ability to meet deadlines and deliver exceptional service through positive engagement and patience.
• Able to promote a culture of trust and safety.
EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, & LICENSE REQUIREMENTS • High School Diploma or GED.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT Ascend is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, inclusive environment where all individuals may grow and thrive, respecting the different experiences that each employee brings to their job.
Ascend believes that a diverse work environment results in a better experience for employees and customers and makes Ascend stronger.
With our mission of diversity and inclusion in mind, we provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), religion, age, disability, citizenship, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression), marital status, ancestry, genetic information, veteran and/or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or Ascend policy.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this position.
It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for this position, other duties outside of normal responsibilities may be performed as necessary to meet the needs of the organization.
Nothing in this position description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.
Employee’s acknowledgment constitutes employee’s understanding of the principal accountabilities and duties of the position and certifies that they are physically able to perform the necessary duties in the work environment.
Employee Signature ______________________________________ Date: ________________ Employee Printed Name ___________________________________________ WE OFFER • Medical, Dental, Vision - 1st of month after hire • 401(k) - 5% match • Employee Assistance Benefit • Enhanced Benefits (STD, LTD, Critical Care) • Paid Holidays • Paid Time Off