Assistant Operations Manager

APM Terminals•Elizabeth, NJ

18d•$85,000 - $95,000•Hybrid

About The Position

APM Terminals Elizabeth is seeking an Assistant Manager, Operations to help lead safe, efficient, and customer-focused terminal operations at one of North America's busiest container terminals. This role is ideal for a collaborative operations professional who enjoys working with people, making decisions in real time, and helping teams succeed in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. The Assistant Manager, Operations plays a vital role in coordinating vessel operations, labor allocation, stevedoring activities, and terminal resources to ensure exceptional service for customers while maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence. Working closely with ILA labor, terminal leadership, and frontline supervisors, this individual will help drive vessel productivity, efficient cargo movement, and continuous operational improvement. Success in this position requires a strong balance of leadership, communication, planning, and problem-solving skills. The ideal candidate is comfortable adapting to changing priorities, managing multiple operational demands simultaneously, and building positive working relationships across all levels of the organization.

Requirements

Lean-minded: someone who brings a strong mindset of continuous improvement – someone who is naturally curious, committed to solving problems at the root, and driven to make things better every day
High school diploma or GED required
Experience working within a fast-paced operational environment where priorities can shift quickly
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build trust and influence others
Ability to lead with empathy, professionalism, and consistency in a unionized workforce environment
Proven problem-solving skills and sound operational decision-making abilities
Experience coordinating teams, resources, or labor in an operations-driven setting
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Valid driver's license or ability to obtain one
TWIC card or ability to obtain one
Self-starter who takes initiative, remains calm under pressure, and adapts effectively to change
Collaborative mindset with a desire to support team success and continuous learning

Nice To Haves

college degree preferred

Responsibilities

Lead daily labor allocation and stevedoring activities to support safe and efficient vessel operations
Direct Foremen and Chief Supervisors to ensure operational plans are executed effectively
Determine labor requirements for each shift and coordinate additional labor resources when necessary
Monitor payroll accuracy, attendance, hours worked, and overtime approvals
Support vessel productivity goals while managing labor utilization and operational costs
Coordinate equipment and resource allocation across vessel, yard, rail, gate, and breakbulk operations
Optimize yard space, grounding activities, and chassis utilization to improve terminal flow
Reallocate labor and equipment in response to changing operational requirements
Promote and enforce safety standards while supporting a strong safety culture throughout the terminal
Support performance management and disciplinary processes in alignment with collective bargaining agreements
Develop and execute operating plans that improve service delivery and operational efficiency
Respond quickly and effectively to day-to-day operational challenges and changing vessel schedules