What are the responsibilities and job description for the Intermodal Dispatcher – Midwest Focus position at Rapid Intermodal?
Location: Kansas City, MO (serving Midwest markets)
Schedule: Full-time: M-F: shift starts at 5:30 am
Reports to: Lead Dispatch
About Us
Rapid Intermodal is an intermodal drayage carrier serving key Midwest markets with a primary focus on Kansas City and surrounding rail ramps and distribution centers. We specialize in moving containers to and from regional rail hubs and customer facilities, providing reliable, on‑time service to shippers and brokers across the heartland.
Position Summary
The early shift Intermodal Dispatcher plans, schedules, and dispatches container moves for a fleet of local drivers throughout the Kansas City area and broader Midwest region. This role is the frontline connection between drivers, customers, and rail terminals, ensuring time‑sensitive freight moves safely and efficiently each day.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, schedule, and dispatch daily intermodal drayage loads in and around Kansas City and other Midwest lanes, aligning with rail ramp and customer appointment times.
- Communicate clear dispatch instructions to drivers (container, chassis, pickup/delivery addresses, appointment windows, special requirements) using phone, text, and dispatch/TMS tools.
- Monitor driver progress, track container status, and proactively resolve issues such as delays, equipment shortages, access problems, or rail/yard congestion.
- Coordinate closely with rail ramps, yards, and warehouses in the Kansas City region (and other Midwest hubs as needed) to schedule appointments and adjust plans in real time.
- Enter and maintain accurate load data in the TMS, including moves, accessorials, in/out times, and rail billing details.
- Manage container and chassis free time, per diem, and storage exposure by planning turns and returns to minimize avoidable charges.
- Provide timely status updates and ETAs to customers and internal teams, especially when service exceptions occur.
- Support driver compliance and safety by considering hours‑of‑service, company policies, and rail/yard rules when assigning and adjusting loads.
- Assist with collection of PODs and other documents to ensure accurate billing and on‑time invoicing.
Required Qualifications
- Aptitude for logistics
- Willingness to learn and adapt
- Ability to maintain calm logic inside urgent complexities.
- Proficiency with software and comfort using email, spreadsheets, and web‑based rail/yard portals.
- Clear, professional communication skills when working with drivers, customers, and terminal personnel.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail for managing multiple loads, appointments, and equipment assets simultaneously.
- Ability to work on‑site in Kansas City, early shift, starts at 5:30 am.
Even better if you have
- Recent experience as an intermodal/drayage dispatcher, preferably working with Midwest rail ramps or yards. (e.g., Edgerton/Logistics Park Kansas City and other regional facilities).
- Familiarity with common Midwest lanes (MO, KS, NE, IA, OK, AR) and regional customer expectations.
Key Competencies
- Ownership: Takes responsibility for on‑time performance, communication quality, and accurate data entry.
- Customer focus: Balances customer needs with operational realities and driver safety.
- Problem solving: Anticipates issues and resolves them before they impact service or cost.
- Midwest mindset: Professional, courteous, and dependable, with a focus on long‑term relationships.
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive salary, starting at $22/hr, commensurate with experience
- Access to Health Insurance, 401(k), PTO, paid holidays
- Fast growing family-owned company w/ pathways for growth