Operations Assistant Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Operations Assistant plays a critical role in maintaining the speed, accuracy, and reliability of day-to-day terminal operations. This position exists to ensure freight flows without disruption, operational data remains accurate in real time, and cross-functional teams are aligned on execution.
In a fast-moving logistics environment, even small delays or communication gaps can create downstream inefficiencies. This role directly mitigates those risks by owning load visibility, coordinating with multiple internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring operational systems reflect ground truth.
Success in this role means shipments move predictably, exceptions are identified and escalated early, and the service center operates with precision, accountability, and minimal rework.What you'll do1. Drive operational coordination and load visibility

• Track outbound loads daily and ensure system updates are accurate and timely
• Proactively communicate delays to leadership and cross-functional stakeholders before 11 AM
• Monitor pickup schedules and investigate loads that have not departed by 10 AM
• Escalate operational risks and delays to Linehaul and leadership with clear context

2. Execute administrative and documentation workflows

• Manage driver documentation, including IC paperwork, plates, IFTA, and compliance materials
• Collect and route maintenance records to Safety to ensure compliance standards are met
• Manifest inbound and outbound freight, ensuring documentation accuracy across systems
• File and maintain exception reports and operational records

3. Support delivery execution and customer commitments

• Schedule delivery appointments, including direct deliveries and diverts
• Coordinate redeliveries and obtain ACR (Additional Charge Request) authorization
• Enter ACRs into systems with precision to ensure financial and operational alignment
• Partner with brokers to secure rates for non-service point returns

4. Resolve operational exceptions and improve throughput

• Trace freight and investigate shipment issues across terminals and agent networks
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to resolve delivery disruptions
• Identify recurring issues and escalate patterns that impact service performance
• Support all terminals with system-related and operational inquiries

5. Maintain operational infrastructure and team efficiency

• Monitor functionality of printers and administrative equipment within operations
• Provide general administrative support including data entry, filing, imaging, and reporting
• Preset appointments for inbound freight and linehaul contractors
• Contribute to team-based operational goals and continuous improvement efforts

What you bring

• High school diploma or GED required; equivalent experience considered
• 1-3 months of relevant administrative or operations experience preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact across all levels
• Basic computer proficiency; familiarity with AS/400, Microsoft Office, and imaging tools preferred
• Foundational math skills and comfort working with weights, distances, and monetary values
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow written and verbal instructions
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills in a fast-paced environment
• Capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously with attention to detail
• Problem-solving ability in situations with limited standardization
• Hazardous Materials Handling certification preferred
• Experience in transportation, logistics, or terminal operations is a plus

How you operate

• You prioritize accuracy without sacrificing speed
• You take ownership of outcomes, not just assigned tasks
• You communicate early, clearly, and with purpose
• You thrive in structured environments but can adapt when conditions shift
• You stay organized and focused under operational pressure
• You collaborate effectively across functions to resolve issues quickly
• You approach problems with practicality and a solution-first mindset

About Roadrunner

We're not just moving freight; we're reimagining long-haul shipping. Our Smart Network offers more direct long-haul metro-to-metro routes than any other nationwide LTL carrier in the United States, with service extending into Canada and Mexico and terminals across 40+ metro markets. Powered by AI and machine learning, our operations platform ensures real-time tracking, custodial control, and full shipment visibility. With driver teams executing over-the-road (OTR) moves - and no freight moving on rail - customers experience industry-leading transit times, minimal rehandling, and dramatically reduced risk of loss or damage.

Our 900+ owner-operators benefit from scheduled freight, fewer touches by design, consistent long-haul density, and a differentiated metro-to-metro model that creates predictable earning opportunities.

This precision and performance have earned Roadrunner national recognition by over 3,000 shippers, and was ranked this year #1 in Operations, #1 in Technology, and #1 in Value in the Quest for Quality Awards, as well as honors as a Top 100 Trucking Company by Inbound Logistics and a Top Tier Service Carrier by Mastio.

We're growing fast. Roadrunner is building something special with great people, a winning culture and a differentiated service offering in the marketplace. Join us today to grow your career!

We Run Safe. We Run Smart. We Run Together.

Compensation & Setup

• Pay: $18.00 to $20.00 per hour
• Location: Onsite - Chicago, IL
• Benefits: Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands

• Light physical activity performing non-strenuous daily activities of an administrative nature.
• While performing the duties of the job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, reach/handle items, work with fingers, have color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors) and talk and hear others in conversations via the phone or in person.
• The employee is occasionally asked to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb or balance and lift objects up to 25 lbs.

Work Environment

• The noise level is loud based on multiple printers and forklifts running outside of the door.
• Works in well-lighted, heated and/or air-conditioned indoor office setting with adequate ventilation.
• Might be required to occasionally work near toxic or caustic chemicals, moving mechanical parts and/or fumes or airborne particles.

* The above statements reflect the general details necessary to describe the principal functions of the position and are not intended to be all inclusive. The position and any of the requirements listed above are subject to change at any time according to the changing needs of the company.

* Roadrunner is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind.

* We will not accept unsolicited candidates from external recruiters or recruiting agencies. Thank you!

#LI-OnsiteChicago, IL