What are the responsibilities and job description for the Logistics and Transportation Lead position at Violet Foods?
Company Description
Violet Foods is a New Jersey-based food manufacturer specializing in high-quality tomato products crafted with tradition and care. With strong connections to local farmers, Violet Foods ensures premium tomatoes are swiftly and consistently transformed into flavorful products. Home to beloved brands such as Don Pepino, Sclafani, and Jersey Fresh, the company combines heritage and modern manufacturing techniques to serve foodservice operators, retailers, and families nationwide. Violet Foods takes pride in delivering authentic products, dependable quality, and honoring its deep local roots.
Role Description
The Logistic and Transportation Lead is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing all logistics operations within the food industry environment. This role ensures the efficient, safe, and timely movement of raw materials, finished goods, and packaging materials while maintaining strict compliance with food safety, quality, and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
Logistics & Transportation
- Lead effort to source Third Party- Logistics (3PL) Providers
- Oversee shipment transactions, EDI set-up and transactions working between internal ERP (Microsoft 365/Aptean F&B), 3PL, factory, warehouses, and customer base
- Work with 3PL to plan, manage, and optimize inbound and outbound logistics for food products
- Coordinate transportation, warehousing, and inventory activities to ensure on time delivery
- Develop and maintain logistics strategies to support production and sales goals
- Monitor daily logistics performance and resolve operational issues promptly
Inventory & Warehouse Operations
- Oversee inventory accuracy, stock rotation (FIFO/FEFO), and spoilage control
- Ensure proper storage conditions (temperature, humidity, sanitation) are maintained
- Collaborate with warehouse teams to improve space utilization and workflow efficiency
- Implement inventory control systems and conduct regular audits
Food Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with food safety regulations (FDA, USDA, HACCP, GMP, FSMA)
- Maintain documentation and traceability for products and shipments
- Support internal and external audits and inspections
- Enforce hygiene, sanitation, and safety standards across logistics operations
Vendor & Transportation Management
- Manage relationships with transportation providers, freight partners, and suppliers
- Negotiate contracts, service levels, and rates to control costs
- Monitor carrier performance and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
- Develop contingency plans for supply disruptions
Cost Control & Continuous Improvement
- Analyze logistics costs and identify opportunities for cost savings
- Implement process improvements and automation where applicable
- Prepare logistics reports, KPIs, and performance metrics for management
- Lead initiatives to improve sustainability and reduce waste
Team Leadership
- Lead, train, and supervise logistics and warehouse staff
- Set performance goals and conduct evaluations
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement
- Coordinate workforce planning to meet seasonal or demand fluctuations
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business, or related field
- 5 years of logistics or supply chain experience, preferably within the food industry
- Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and cold chain logistics
- Experience with ERP, WMS, and inventory management systems
- Proven leadership and team management skills
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and negotiation abilities
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Detail oriented with a strong focus on accuracy and compliance
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and logistics software
Working Conditions
- May require working in warehouse or refrigerated environments
- Flexible hours to support production schedules and transportation needs
- Occasional travel to warehouses, suppliers, or distribution centers