Distribution Center Assistant Plant Manager

Organic Valley•Town of Portland, WI

2d•$80,642 - $100,818•Onsite

About The Position

The Distribution Center (DC) Assistant Operations Manager plays a key leadership role in overseeing daily DC operations to ensure efficiency, safety, and exceptional service. This position fosters collaboration, motivates teams, and drives productivity and quality standards. Acting as the primary backup for the Senior Distribution Operations Manager, the role also supports strategic initiatives, including the implementation and optimization of the Warehouse Management System (WMS) within the CROPP Cooperative Supply Chain. Responsibilities include partnering with IT teams, business units, and key stakeholders to enhance system functionality and performance. This is a safety-sensitive position requiring strong operational expertise and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Requirements

3–5 years of experience in distribution, warehousing, production, or manufacturing environments.
Ability to become certified on material handling equipment.
Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and math skills.
Ability to foster a positive, professional, and collaborative work environment.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and operate material handling equipment for loads up to 2,500 lbs.
Frequent walking and standing; occasional work in cooler or freezer environments.
Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and nights as needed.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in business or a related field preferred.
2–3 years of supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
Working knowledge of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and ERP systems preferred.
Basic understanding of accounting principles and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Occasional travel required.

Responsibilities

Lead and support DC operations through effective planning, delegation, and performance management.
Collaborate with the Senior Distribution Operations Manager to maintain smooth receiving, warehousing, and distribution processes.
Assist in setting and monitoring departmental goals to achieve operational targets.
Ensure adherence to safety protocols, employment practices, audits, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Coordinate daily shift activities with DC Supervisors to maintain workflow and productivity.
Identify and implement process improvements related to workflow, staffing, space utilization, and equipment layout.
Support employee development through training programs and monitor training outcomes.
Prepare and manage operational reports, including monthly performance summaries and report on (MOR) monthly operating results.
Develop expertise in Warehouse Management System (WMS) functions to provide backup support.
Maintain master data settings for materials, pick paths, and replenishment.
Perform device maintenance, troubleshooting, and coordinate repairs as needed.
Manage material and user configurations within Crane WMS.
Execute routine WMS maintenance tasks to prevent inefficiencies and system errors.
Review monthly operational reports for accuracy and adjust workflow and work balance as needed.
Manage sanitation operations in collaboration with the Senior Distribution Operations Manager ensuring quality assurance goals and requirements are achieved.
Handles confidential information with caution.
Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Benefits

Comprehensive Health Insurance - Choice of plans for you and your family, including some that can be paired with an HSA (which CROPP contributes to on your behalf)
Supplemental insurances: we offer accidental insurance, critical illness insurance, and hospital indemnity insurance.
Time Off – 136 hours in the 1st year of employment prorated by start date. Plus 9 paid holidays, plus one floating holiday to use at will.
6 Weeks Paid Parental Leave – For all gendered partners in childbirth or adoption.
Vision & Dental Insurance – Free annual eye exam, discounts on glasses/contacts, flexible dental network, adult ortho.
401k – We match 100% up to the first 3% of an employee’s contribution, and then 50% for 3.1%-5.0% of employee contributions.
Free services at five local Neighborhood Family Clinics.
Tuition Reimbursement – Up to $1,500 per year to support continuing higher education.
Life Insurance - $50,000 policy funded by CROPP for each employee. Supplemental voluntary coverage available for employees, spouses, and children.
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability/AD&D Insurance - $50,000 of life insurance coverage of $50,000 of AD&D coverage funded by CROPP for each employee.
Employee Assistance Program - Free and Confidential for employees, spouses, and dependents.
Free onsite fitness centers available 24/7
Free biometric screenings (cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure) and health coaching.
Financial advisors and seminars
Annual $360 Lifestyle Spending Account