Weekend Container Terminal Vessel Planner Jobs in Chicago, IL

Illinois Marine Towing

JOB DESCRIPTION

Dispatcher

I. BASIC FUNCTION

As avitalmember of the Transportation Services Group, the Dispatcherisresponsible forensuringthe smooth,efficientand safelogisticsand vessel operationsfor Illinois Marine Towing (IMT).This role requires proactive planning, clear communication, operational management, and incident prevention to meet and exceed customer expectations. TheDispatcherembodies themissionand values of Canal Barge Company and Illinois Marine Towing while contributingS.A.F.E., efficient, and profitable transportation of equipment for ourclients.

II. KEYRESPONSIBILITIES

1. Maintainaccuratecustomer accounts by tracking the location and status of customer products and providingtimelycommunicationregardingdelivery updates.

2. Maintaincommunication withvesselCaptains to update ordersin real-time.

3. Plan tows based on boat size, horsepower, and weather/water conditions.

4. Optimizevessel movementsto ensure efficient use of company equipment and resources,monitortraffic that boats produce, and communicate with docks and other barge customers to coordinate movements and delays.

5. Utilize Tow Works to createand manageorders andgeneratecustomer invoices.

6. Understandboatprocedures and the Vessel Emergency Response Plan.

7. Workand collaborateas a team to improveoveralloperational success.

8. Coordinate withtheCBClogisticsteam asneededor directed.

9. Remain accessible and responsive to unforeseen issues or changes inlogisticsor operations.

10. Required in person,inthe officeMonday through Friday.Every third week will be on call nights and the weekend.

Other

1. Perform other duties asrequiredand directed by management.

2. Carry out the Business Philosophy, Code of Conduct, Mission and Vision of Illinois Marine Towingand Canal Barge Company.

III. CORE BEHAVIORS & COMPETENCIES

A. VisionaryThinking

• Anticipating future challenges and industry trends,such as evolving port technologies,route optimization,weather patterns, or regulatory changes,to improve operational efficiency.

B. Problem Solving

• Capable offinding solutions by implementing practical solutions that meet both customer needs and organizational goals.

C. ExceptionalCommunicationSkills

• Exceptional communication is critical for delivering clear,timelyinstructions, issuing urgent updates, and reducing misunderstandings in a high-stakes environment.

D. OrganizationalSkills

• Able to manage overlapping timelines, track vessel locations, andmaintainaccuraterecords to prevent conflicts or delays. Using digital systems and logs effectively whilemanagingmultiple priorities is key to successful marine coordination.

E. Heightened Attention to Detail

• Ability to spot discrepancies, verify information thoroughly, and ensure every logistical detail is correcttomaintainsmooth and compliant operations.

F. Critical Thinking Skills

• Ability to assess operational situations logically and make well-reasoned decisions under pressure,interpret weather forecasts, analyze traffic density, prioritize vessel movements, and evaluate risks.

IV. ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIP

The Dispatcher is appointed by and reports to the IMT Traffic Manager.

V. EXPERIENCE& QUALIFICATIONS

1. High School Diplomaor equivalentrequired. Anassociate or bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent work experience.

2. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

3. Ability toworkan on-call rotation.

4. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal,with the ability to muti-task.

5. Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.

6. Ability to build strong relationships and work effectively with vessel Captains, external customers, andtheIMT Crewing department.

7. Strong computer skills, including MicrosoftOffice and Tow Works.

8. Marine industry experience and knowledge of USCG regulations preferred.

9. Logistics Backgroundrequired.

VI. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Ability to sit for extended periods

2. Standing/Walking: Occasionallyrequiredto stand, walk, or moveaboutthe office

3. Physical stamina for site visits

4. Ability to lift & carry up to 25 pounds

5. Manual dexterity and coordination: Frequent use of hands for typing, writing, and operating standard office equipment (keyboard, mouse, telephone, copier, etc.).

VII. KEYOUTCOMES

Successful performance in this role willestablishthe Dispatcher as a trusted, dependable operations partner. Excellence in this position is reflected in consistent, high-quality outcomes that embody CBC and IMT's identity and commitment to humble, hungry, and smart behaviors.