Manager, Crew Operations & Dispatch

Parker Towing Company • Northport, AL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Parker Towing Company is seeking a proactive and people-focused Manager, Crew Operations & Dispatch to lead the daily staffing and coordination of vessel crews across our Southern Division fleet. This role is responsible for ensuring vessels are safely and efficiently staffed while supporting operational excellence through workforce planning, team leadership, safety compliance, onboarding, logistics coordination, and continuous process improvement. Working closely with Operations, Human Resources, vessel crews, and customers, this position plays a critical role in keeping our fleet operating safely, efficiently, and on schedule. The ideal candidate is highly organized, thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex scheduling challenges, and has a passion for leading people and building strong relationships.

Requirements

• Experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Leadership or supervisory experience, including coaching, developing, and supporting employees.
• Strong planning, scheduling, and organizational skills.
• The ability to make sound decisions while balancing competing priorities.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• A customer service mindset with the ability to work effectively across departments.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• The ability to quickly learn new software systems and technology.
• Adaptability, flexibility, and a willingness to respond to changing operational needs.
• High School Diploma or GED required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in the marine industry is valuable, but candidates with transferable leadership and operations experience are welcome.
• Experience in marine transportation, logistics, dispatch, manufacturing, emergency services, transportation, construction, utilities, or other operational environments is preferred, but not required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Logistics, Operations Management, Human Resources, or a related field is preferred but not required.
• Previous leadership, supervisory, or management experience preferred.
• Experience in scheduling, dispatch, workforce planning, logistics, customer service, or operations coordination is preferred.
• Equivalent combinations of education, military service, and professional experience will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Lead the daily scheduling and staffing of Southern Division vessel crews to ensure uninterrupted operations.
• Coordinate crew changes while balancing operational needs, employee availability, certifications, and business priorities.
• Ensure accurate and timely submission of crew payroll information.
• Maintain staffing schedules, crew records, and operational documentation.
• Provide after-hours support as needed to address staffing emergencies and ensure vessel coverage.
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Crew Dispatchers.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and service-oriented team culture.
• Support employee performance, professional development, and ongoing training.
• Promote open communication and encourage continuous improvement within the department.
• Conduct daily safety and compliance briefings with vessel crews prior to dispatch.
• Support new hire onboarding and orientation activities.
• Assist with incident reporting, investigations, and corrective action documentation.
• Participate in vessel audits, surveys, and compliance initiatives.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate crew transportation and crew change logistics.
• Work closely with Operations, vessel personnel, vendors, and customers to coordinate fuel deliveries, groceries, and vessel provisioning while minimizing downtime.
• Oversee the maintenance and management of company crew vehicles.
• Assist with operational planning and special projects that support fleet performance.
• Identify opportunities to improve dispatch processes, scheduling efficiencies, and operational workflows.
• Assist in developing and implementing new procedures, training programs, and operational best practices.
• Support department and company initiatives that improve safety, employee engagement, and operational excellence.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• At Parker Towing Company, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the Manager, Crew Operations & Dispatch, you'll play an essential role in supporting our vessel crews, leading a dedicated team, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of our fleet. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, collaborate with experienced operational leaders, and contribute to a company with a long-standing reputation for excellence in the inland marine transportation industry.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED