Transport Operations Specialist

Let's introduce ourselves

The Transport Control Specialist ensures uninterrupted inbound and packaging return material flows to the Volvo Cars Charleston plant through proactive transport execution, risk identification, and deviation management. The role manages inbound and return transport flows, including premium and expedited movements required to protect production continuity. Working closely with internal stakeholders and logistics partners, the role maintains shipment visibility, resolves operational issues, and supports carrier performance and continuous improvement. This position requires strong ownership, sound judgment, and the ability to act decisively in time‑critical situations.

What you'll do

Transport Execution & Control

• Execute and monitor inbound, packaging return, premium, and expedited shipments to ensure on-time delivery and uninterrupted production flow.
• Maintain end-to-end shipment visibility and proactively identify risks to service performance.
• Coordinate directly with carriers and internal stakeholders to resolve operational issues efficiently and cost-effectively.
• Support the maintenance and accuracy of transport master data and parameters to reflect operational reality.
• Independently manage assigned transport flows with strong ownership and accountability.

Deviation Management & Escalation

• Assess transport deviations or risks, determine potential production impact, and initiate appropriate recovery actions.
• Evaluate recovery options and select or recommend solutions that balance service, cost, and operational feasibility.
• Perform structured root-cause analysis and contribute to prevention of recurring deviations.
• Communicate deviations, mitigation plans, and status updates clearly to relevant stakeholders.
• Escalate high-impact or unresolved issues in a timely and structured manner.
• Support operational crisis management during network disruptions.

Carrier Performance & Operational Support

• Monitor carrier performance against agreed service expectations and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Challenge and follow up on recurring performance issues with carriers and relevant internal partners.
• Support onboarding and operational implementation of new transport agreements and services.
• Provide operational input to KPI reviews, contract updates, and Statements of Work (SOWs).

Stakeholder Communication

• Collaborate closely with Supply Chain, Packaging, Customs, and other internal functions to align transport execution with production needs.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with carriers and logistics partners.
• Support training and knowledge sharing related to transport processes and systems.
• Contribute to maintaining up-to-date work instructions and process documentation.
• Participate in cross-training to ensure continuity during absence, peak demand, or critical situations.

Mexico Border Operations

• Support inbound and packaging returns transport flows involving Mexico, including coordination related to customs documentation and border clearance.
• Monitor border transit and dwell times and escalate potential delays proactively.
• Collaborate with internal teams, customs partners, and carriers to resolve border-related constraints.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify and contribute to initiatives that improve transport reliability, efficiency, and cost control.
• Participate in operational development, optimization, and network improvement projects.
• Provide operational insights in RFQs, specification reviews, and cost-saving initiatives.
• Represent the transport execution perspective in cross-functional improvement and strategic initiatives.

What you'll bring

• Experience in transportation management or logistics operations, preferably within inbound logistics, automotive supply chains, or freight forwarding.
• Fluency in English is required. Professional-level Spanish proficiency is considered an advantage.
• Ability to manage multiple time-critical shipments in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to handle deviations and corrective actions under pressure.
• Experience with Transportation Management Systems. Comfortable learning and adapting to new systems and digital tools.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Solid understanding of carrier operations and end-to-end logistics flows.
• Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in logistics, supply chain, business, or related field preferred.
• Ability to work nights and weekends when required by operational needs.
• High sense of ownership, accountability, and independent decision-making. 

Let's Talk Benefits

Join Volvo Cars and enjoy a comprehensive range of benefits designed with you in mind. Our programs offer choice, flexibility, and exceptional value, including competitive medical, dental, and vision plans, tax-advantaged savings accounts, and a wellness program with discounts and gifts, most of which start on day one of employment. You'll also have access to voluntary benefits and a robust retirement savings plan with employer contributions. 

As part of our commitment to your well-being, we offer The Family Bond by Volvo Cars, a global paid parental leave policy covering all employees, including adoptive, permanent care foster, and surrogate parents. Additionally, employees and their eligible family members can lease a new Volvo at discounted rates through the Volvo Employee Lease Program (VELP). At Volvo Cars, our benefits extend beyond the workplace to enhance your life and support your family. 

Volvo Car is an equal opportunity employer. The successful candidate must be legally authorized to work in the US without sponsorship.