Director of Transportation & Logistics

About the Organization

The Mattress Recycling Council (MRC), created by the International Sleep Products Association (ISPA), is a nonprofit that designs, launches, and runs statewide mattress recycling programs. Since starting its first program in 2015, it has become one of the world’s largest mattress recycling organizations, recycling more than 2 million mattresses each year. The organization currently operates in four states and continues to expand its programs.

MRC works with mattress collectors, transporters, and recyclers to build efficient, environmentally responsible recycling systems. Its contracted transporters move more than 15,000 loads of used mattresses every year.

Role Summary

This leadership role oversees transportation and reverse logistics for MRC’s California and Oregon programs. The position reports to the Vice President of Operations and focuses on building, managing, and improving the transportation network that moves end-of-life mattresses from collection points to contracted recyclers.

The role covers transportation planning, carrier and recycler management, contract administration, operational analysis, and continuous improvement. It involves close coordination with transport providers, recyclers, local governments, retailers, and internal teams to improve efficiency, control costs, and maintain strong service quality while supporting MRC’s environmental mission.

This opportunity is well suited to a collaborative, data-oriented leader who enjoys tackling complex operational issues, strengthening partnerships, and driving ongoing improvement.

Work Location and Travel

This is a remote position for candidates based in California or Oregon. The role requires approximately 10% to 20% travel across California and Oregon.

Compensation

The salary range is $105,000 to $150,000 per year, depending on experience.

Core Responsibilities

• Create and execute transportation plans that support statewide operations in California and Oregon.
• Improve routing, scheduling, trailer usage, and recycler capacity allocation to raise service levels and lower costs.
• Track transport volumes and anticipate capacity requirements for carriers and recyclers.
• Build contingency plans that keep operations running during service interruptions.
• Manage the full movement of materials from collection sites through recycling and final end use or disposal.
• Oversee sourcing, negotiation, and day-to-day administration of transportation and recycling contracts.
• Develop productive working relationships with transport vendors, recyclers, municipalities, and industry partners.
• Create vendor scorecards and track performance against defined KPIs.
• Run regular performance reviews and put corrective actions in place when needed.
• Study transportation expense patterns and trends to guide decision-making.
• Create dashboards, reports, and performance metrics using Salesforce and related reporting tools.
• Recommend and roll out process improvements, updated SOPs, and logistics solutions that improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.
• Support annual budgeting and forecasting activities.
• Lead assigned logistics and program staff.
• Promote a team culture centered on accountability, service, and continuous improvement.
• Work closely with Operations, Finance, Compliance, Program Management, Communications, and Data Analytics teams.
• Represent MRC with transport vendors, recyclers, retailers, public agencies, and other outside stakeholders.
• Share operational updates and recommendations with senior leadership when needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Transportation Management, Business Administration, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of progressive experience in transportation, logistics, reverse logistics, environmental services, recycling, waste management, or similar operations.
• Proven background in managing transportation networks and third-party transport providers.
• Hands-on experience with vendor contract negotiation and administration.
• Experience building operational KPIs, scorecards, and performance reports.
• Strong analytical, financial, and project management capabilities.
• Advanced skill with Salesforce CRM, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent writing, speaking, and presentation abilities.
• Ability to build effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly throughout California and Oregon.
• Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Experience

• Background in recycling, municipal solid waste, environmental services, or product stewardship programs.
• Experience managing transportation operations across multiple states.
• Exposure to Transportation Management Systems, Power BI, GIS routing tools, or logistics optimization platforms.
• Working knowledge of California and Oregon environmental regulations.
• Experience applying Lean, Six Sigma, or similar continuous improvement methods.

Key Competencies

• Salesforce CRM
• Transportation network optimization
• Vendor and contract management
• Capacity planning and procurement
• Business intelligence and analytics
• Budget management
• Continuous improvement
• Cross-functional leadership

Why This Role Stands Out

This is an opportunity to lead transportation and logistics for one of the country’s most successful Extended Producer Responsibility organizations, supporting environmental sustainability and the circular economy. You will work with an experienced team, help shape transportation strategy, introduce innovative solutions, and strengthen partnerships that improve recycling results across California and Oregon.

MRC provides competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, remote work flexibility, and the chance to contribute to meaningful environmental impact.

Equal Opportunity

The Mattress Recycling Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building an inclusive workplace that welcomes diversity.