Rail Logistics Specialist

Louis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods. Our activities span the entire value chain from farm to fork, across a broad range of business lines, we leverage our global reach and extensive asset network to serve our customers and consumers around the world. Structured as a matrix organization of six geographical regions and ten platforms, Louis Dreyfus Company is active in over 100 countries and employs approximately 18,000 people globally. Overall Purpose and Objective of Position This position serves to optimize the execution of truck and rail shipments of biofuels and vegetable oils into and out of a large vertically integrated oilseeds processing facility. The ideal candidate has a keen interest in the food and biofuels space with an ambition to grow with LDC as it expands its US footprint, while maintaining a focus on safety, sustainability, and customer service. Primary Responsibilities/Essential Functions Support scheduling and executing biodiesel truck and rail logistics to suit customer needs Maintain fleet consisting of oil, biodiesel, refined glycerin and canola railcars. Update forecast in a timely manner to support daily decision making for purchases and sales Coordinate daily loading / unloading of rail to prioritize loading / unloading rail to align with operations according to available inventory and railcar availability.  Participates in planning meetings focusing on inventory management (biodiesel and vegetable oil) Coordinates inbound bean oil truck and rail logistics with the commercial and operations teams Establishes and maintains freight pricing matrices to and from customer/supplier origins and destinations Communicates customer quality requirements and requests to the lab and operations teams Prepares and aggregates paperwork needed for inbound and outbound shipments Liaise daily with Biodiesel & Ingredients sales teams on associated markets Focus on cost savings for logistics to support business needs. Resolve pricing discrepancies. Build relationships with freight providers, expand network or truck carriers, optimize preferred carriers for common lanes Assist in merchandising by-products. Additional Responsibilities Cross-train on other roles in the office. Develop competence in LDC products varying qualities Perform other duties as assigned. Company Conformance Statements In the performance of their respective tasks and duties, all employees are expected to conform to the following: Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision. Interact professionally with co-workers, Company business associates and the general public. Work together in a cooperative spirit to serve the best interests of the Company. Operate in a fully responsible manner and comply with the law and Company policy. Equipment Used Typical office equipment: PC, telephone, Working Conditions Primarily climate-controlled office environment.  Periodic visits to industrial operations areas are necessary with exposure during such visits to variety of temperatures and prevailing weather conditions. Interact closely with personnel in other departments and company locations, interact closely with middle and senior level management, domestic travel to visit customers required (up to 30% at times).  Call-ins or the extension of regular working hours (50-60 hours per week) are occasionally needed to complete time-sensitive projects or respond to emergencies.  Some weekend work is required. Decision Making/Accountability Exercises judgment, within established parameters, to arrive at appropriate logistics decisions and actions for the purpose of adding value to the firm; assesses risk pertaining to logistics. Education/Professional Certifications/Licenses   Basic qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree (or higher) is required, preferably in a Finance, Science or Logistics discipline and a minimum of 3 years relevant experience. In lieu of a Bachelor’s degree, must have at least 5 years of experience working in logistics, supply chain management or customs clearance of food grade products. Experience Basic qualifications: Supply chain risk management & inventory management Direct verbal and written experience managing customer expectations, demands, and resolving complaints Experience in liquid bulk logistics including the operation and maintenance of bulk tank trucks and tank cars. Preferred qualifications:  Familiarity with biofuels, vegetable oils, or liquid food grade products Financial acumen with regard to logistics budgeting, freight value estimation, network modeling, and forecasting. General understanding of food grade hygiene procedures and quality documentation. Understanding import/export processes including ISF process, FDA pre notify process, and customs clearance. Familiarity with freight invoice payment, claims settlement, and procurement events/bid processes. Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (including any physical demands) The following are required: Strong verbal and written communication skills Professionalism when interacting with customers over the phone, email, and in person. Attention to detail is critical Negotiation skills with vendors or customers Manages a to-do list and prioritizes workload Strong problem-solving skills Ability to organize multiple responsibilities to meet deadlines Ability to work with minimal supervision Proficiency with spreadsheet and word processing software, preferably MS Word and Excel & SharePoint What We Offer We provide a dynamic and stimulating international environment, which will stretch and develop your abilities and channel your skills and expertise with outstanding career development opportunities in one of the largest and most solid private companies in the world. - Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental and vision care coverage, flexible spending account plans, employee assistance program, life insura