The Transportation & Logistics Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of outbound and inbound freight operations for Dave Wilson Nursery. This role manages a fleet of company vehicles and/or third-party carriers, coordinates seasonal shipping schedules, ensures compliance with DOT and agricultural transport regulations, and drives continuous improvement in delivery efficiency and cost management.
Responsibilities:
- Manage day-to-day operations of company-owned delivery fleet, including scheduling, maintenance coordination, and driver assignments
- Source, negotiate, and manage relationships with third-party carriers and freight brokers to supplement fleet capacity during peak shipping seasons
- Monitor carrier performance against KPIs including on-time delivery, damage rates, and cost per mile
- Plan and coordinate outbound shipments of trees, rootstock, and other nursery stock to customers across California and beyond
- Collaborate with sales, production, and inventory teams to align shipping schedules with harvest and customer order timelines
- Manage loading dock operations, ensuring proper packing, labeling, and documentation for all outbound freight
- Oversee receiving operations for inbound supplies, equipment, and plant material
- Ensure full compliance with FMCSA/DOT regulations, California agricultural transport laws, and USDA phytosanitary requirements
- Maintain accurate driver qualification files, hours-of-service logs, and vehicle inspection records
- Lead safety programs for drivers and dock staff, conducting training and investigating incidents
- Develop and manage the transportation department budget; identify and implement cost-saving initiatives
- Leverage TMS or routing software to optimize delivery routes and reduce fuel and labor costs
- Analyze shipping data and generate reports for leadership on freight spend, delivery performance, and fleet utilization
- Recruit, hire, train, and manage a team of drivers and logistics coordinators
- Set clear performance expectations and conduct regular reviews
- Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and customer service
Skills and experience required:
- Bachelor’s degree in business, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field or 5+ years related experience in logistics management, with a track record of successful supply chain optimization.
- Working knowledge of DOT regulations, HOS rules, and FMCSA compliance requirements
- Proficiency with routing software, or similar logistics technology
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
- Ability to thrive in a seasonal, fast-paced agricultural environment
- Experience in agriculture, horticulture, nursery, or perishable goods logistics
- Familiarity with California Department of Food & Agriculture (CDFA) plant transport regulations
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
