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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Junction Coordinator

💰 $45,000 - $70,000

LogisticsOperationsTransportationSupply ChainSite Management

🎯 Role Definition

The Junction Coordinator is the operational heartbeat of a busy site, acting as the central point of control for all vehicle and personnel movement. Think of this role as the "air traffic controller" for a distribution center, construction site, or transportation hub. You are the key to ensuring safety, efficiency, and clear communication. This position requires a sharp eye for detail, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. The Junction Coordinator ensures that every truck, delivery, and visitor is managed seamlessly, preventing bottlenecks and maintaining the operational tempo required for success. This role is critical for maintaining a safe and organized environment, directly impacting productivity and the bottom line.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Logistics Assistant or Administrator
  • Traffic Marshall or Banksman
  • Warehouse Associate or Team Lead

Advancement To:

  • Senior Junction/Yard Coordinator
  • Logistics Supervisor or Site Supervisor
  • Operations Manager or Logistics Manager

Lateral Moves:

  • Project Coordinator
  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Dispatcher

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Actively manage and direct the flow of all inbound and outbound vehicle traffic within the designated junction, yard, or site to prevent congestion and maximize efficiency.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for all incoming drivers, providing clear instructions for parking, docking, and maneuvering within the facility.
  • Coordinate loading and unloading schedules with warehouse personnel, drivers, and dispatch to ensure timely turnaround of vehicles.
  • Enforce all site-specific safety protocols, including PPE requirements, speed limits, and restricted area access, conducting safety briefings when necessary.
  • Meticulously maintain accurate logs and records of all vehicle movements, arrival/departure times, and seal numbers using both digital systems and physical paperwork.
  • Conduct regular yard checks and physical inventories to verify trailer and container locations, ensuring system data matches real-world placement.
  • Communicate effectively with internal departments, external carriers, and stakeholders via radio, phone, and email to provide real-time updates and resolve logistical issues.
  • Inspect inbound and outbound trailers for condition, cleanliness, and compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Utilize Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), or proprietary software to check-in/out vehicles and update their status.
  • Prioritize and sequence the arrival and departure of vehicles based on operational needs, shipment priority, and dock availability.
  • Proactively identify and troubleshoot potential delays, such as driver issues, equipment malfunctions, or paperwork discrepancies, and escalate complex problems to management.
  • Verify and process all shipping and receiving documentation, including Bills of Lading (BOL), packing slips, and customs paperwork, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
  • Operate and monitor gate systems and CCTV cameras to maintain site security and oversee traffic flow from a central control point.
  • Manage the allocation of dock doors and parking spaces to optimize the use of site resources and minimize driver wait times.
  • Respond promptly to and document any site incidents, accidents, or security breaches according to established emergency procedures.
  • Generate and distribute reports on key performance indicators such as gate-to-gate time, yard capacity, and carrier performance.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in training new team members or drivers on site-specific procedures, traffic patterns, and safety rules.
  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory analysis related to yard operations and traffic flow.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of junction processes by providing feedback and suggestions for enhanced efficiency and safety.
  • Collaborate with the maintenance team to report and track issues with yard equipment, pavement, or signage.
  • Participate in regular team meetings, safety huddles, and planning sessions to stay aligned with operational goals.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficiency in using Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and/or Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
  • Strong computer literacy, particularly with MS Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, Word) for tracking, reporting, and communication.
  • Competency in operating two-way radio systems and other communication equipment.
  • Knowledge of transportation industry standards and regulations (e.g., DOT rules, hours of service).
  • Ability to read and interpret shipping documents, such as Bills of Lading and customs forms.
  • Experience with yard management software and gate control systems.
  • Basic understanding of supply chain and logistics principles.
  • Skill in performing accurate data entry with high attention to detail.
  • Familiarity with standard safety procedures and protocols in a logistics or industrial environment.
  • Ability to generate and analyze basic operational reports to identify trends.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to give clear, concise directions to a diverse group of people.
  • Superior problem-solving ability and the capacity to think on your feet in a dynamic environment.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills, with a proven ability to multitask and prioritize effectively under pressure.
  • High level of situational awareness and a proactive mindset toward identifying potential issues.
  • Unwavering attention to detail and commitment to accuracy in all tasks.
  • The ability to remain calm, professional, and decisive during high-pressure situations or conflicts.
  • A collaborative, team-oriented attitude with a willingness to support colleagues.
  • Adaptability and flexibility to cope with changing schedules, priorities, and weather conditions.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Logistics and Supply Chain Management
  • Business Administration
  • Operations Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 2-4 years of experience in a similar role within a logistics, transportation, distribution, or manufacturing environment.

Preferred: Direct experience as a Yard Jockey, Dispatcher, or in a coordination role at a high-volume distribution center or manufacturing plant is highly advantageous.

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