Logistics Analyst

About J.W. Pepper 

J.W. Pepper was founded in 1876 and is the world’s largest retailer of sheet music, with a particular focus on the K12 education market, offering over 1.2 million products on our website from over 1,000 suppliers. The company is headquartered in Exton, PA, with a large distribution facility in Atlanta, GA. 

Job Summary 

The Logistics Analyst supports daily distribution and supply chain operations by managing inbound and outbound transport, coordinating with carriers, and maintaining accurate shipping documentation. This role ensures timely, cost-effective deliveries while collaborating closely with internal teams and external vendors to streamline transportation workflows. 

Key Responsibilities 

Shipping & Transportation Support 

• Shipment Coordination: Coordinate daily inbound and outbound shipments using approved carriers to ensure on-time delivery. 

• Documentation: Prepare accurate shipping documentation, including bills of lading (BOL), shipping labels, and required paperwork. 

• Tracking & Updates: Track active shipments and provide real-time updates to internal departments and customers as needed. 

• Issue Resolution: Assist in resolving shipping discrepancies, delivery delays, and routine carrier inquiries. 

Carrier & Vendor Coordination 

• Scheduling & Quotes: Schedule carrier pickups/deliveries, request freight quotes, and compare options to balance cost and transit time. 

• Vendor Operations: Communicate with carriers and suppliers to coordinate shipments, resolve issues, and support drop ship orders. 

• Relationship Building: Build positive, professional relationships with freight carriers, parcel providers, and internal teams. 

Logistics Administration & Process Improvement 

• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate shipping records and keep transportation details updated in company systems. 

• Invoice & Claims Management: Review freight invoices for accuracy, flag discrepancies, and assist with freight claims or shipment investigations. 

• Operational Support: Partner with the Distribution Center on daily logistics activities, special projects, and process improvement ideas. 

Requirements & Qualifications 

Experience & Education 

• Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience). 

• Work Experience: 2+ years of experience in logistics, freight forwarding, shipping/receiving, or supply chain coordination preferred 

• Industry Background: Prior experience working in a fast-paced distribution center, manufacturing, or 3PL environment preferred. 

Technical Skills & Knowledge 

• Systems Proficiency: Hands-on experience using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)  

• Transportation Management: Familiarity with Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Freight Management Software, and major parcel/LTL/FTL carrier portals. 

• Documentation & Compliance: Solid understanding of shipping documentation, including Bills of Lading (BOL), commercial invoices, hazardous materials (Hazmat) handling regulations, and basic customs/import-export paperwork. 

• Data & Software: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, with advanced capability in Excel (xlookups, pivot tables, data tracking sheets, and reporting). 

Core Competencies & Soft Skills 

• Problem-Solving: Strong critical thinking and root-cause analysis skills to quickly resolve transit delays, invoice discrepancies, and carrier performance issues. 

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for negotiating freight quotes, interacting with vendors, and collaborating seamlessly across internal departments. 

• Organization & Multitasking: Outstanding detail orientation and time management skills to manage competing priorities, track multiple active shipments simultaneously, and thrive in a high-volume environment. 

• Negotiation & Cost Awareness: Basic commercial acumen with a strong focus on balancing cost-efficiency against transit time commitments.