Director of Yard, Gate, & Rail Operations

Maersk•Elizabeth, NJ

12d•$130,000 - $160,000

About The Position

At APM Terminals, a global leader in port and terminal operations, we enable global trade and drive sustainable growth. What drives us forward is a mindset of always improving — observing how work happens, identifying what creates value, and removing what gets in the way. We constantly look for smarter, simpler, and safer ways of operating. If you thrive in environments where people value learning and are committed to continuously improve daily operations, join us and be apart of our journey. What We Can Offer At APMT Terminals, we foster a dynamic learning and training culture that empowers our employees to excel. Our commitment to improvement is driven by Lean principles, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to develop their skills and advance their careers. Experience a diverse, multinational workplace where your operational insights directly influence how we work. Drive innovation by integrating advanced terminal technologies, data analytics, and Lean methodologies to shape the future of container operations. Prioritize work-life balance through predictable planning cadences, transparent communication, and supportive leadership practices. Access continuous development opportunities, including leadership coaching, Lean practitioner training, and collaboration with global operational experts. Contribute to a learning culture that values experimentation, constructive problem-solving, and knowledge sharing across the terminal network.

Requirements

Continuous improvement mindset: we are looking for 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.
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or 5–10 years of experience in terminal operations with deep functional knowledge of Yard, Gate, or Rail activities.
Demonstrated ability to plan mid‑ to long‑term operational strategies and manage large-scale operational environments.
Strong agility and decision-making capability, with a track record of quickly adapting processes in dynamic or high-volume operational settings.
Proven collaboration and influencing skills, particularly when working cross-functionally or managing up in a matrixed environment.
Advanced proficiency with operational systems (TOS/GOS/TAS), data analytics tools, and technology-driven optimization.

Responsibilities

Lead daily Yard, Gate, and Rail activities across 350+ acres while ensuring safety, service reliability, and efficient labor deployment.
Oversee the handling of 1.2M+ annual container lifts and weekly vessel operations through effective planning and technology utilization.
Build collaborative, trust-based relationships with Union partners, ensuring fairness, compliance, and consistent adherence to corporate and CBA requirements.
Manage departmental OPEX and CAPEX budgets to meet monthly P&L targets and annual scorecard objectives.
Champion Lean practices by coaching teams, driving standardization, and embedding continuous improvement across all operational processes.
Develop strategic plans that align Yard, Gate, and Rail operations with terminal growth objectives, safety initiatives, and technology enhancements.
Strengthen partnerships with Steamship Lines, landside customers, Port Authority, CBP, chassis providers, and internal commercial teams.
Represent the terminal at industry meetings, collaborating with Regional and Global Operations stakeholders.
Utilize TOS, GOS, TAS, CHE deployment tools, and data analytics platforms to optimize equipment usage and operational flow.
Prepare annual budgets, Policy Deployment plans, and performance reports to support long-term operational excellence and transformation goals.
Lead and develop Managers and Assistant Ops Managers, enhancing engagement, capability building, and performance outcomes.
Oversee a blended local and remote workforce, ensuring consistent work practices, coaching, and discipline aligned with company standards.