Operations Labor Manager

SSA Marine•Tacoma, WA
•$95,000 - $122,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Operations Labor Manager directs and coordinates assigned operations, ensuring the safe, efficient, compliant, and cost-effective use of union labor, equipment, and operational resources. The role exercises independent judgment and management authority over labor personnel and operational staff in accordance with company policies, operational requirements, and applicable collective bargaining agreements. The manager represents company management and is accountable for safety, security, productivity, labor relations, and operational execution. The position supervises assigned union labor personnel, including foremen and supervisory clerks. It requires work in rotating shifts across days, evenings, and nights at multiple terminals; schedules may be provided on short notice depending on operational needs. The work environment can include extreme hot or cold outdoor temperatures, very dusty conditions, occasional high noise levels, and hazards associated with fast-moving equipment. Driving is required for 20% of the work.

Requirements

  • At least 5 years of experience managing related union labor.
  • At least 5 years of experience in terminal operations, cargo stowage and stability, and local union dispatching rules.
  • Equivalent experience working in Operations Management or a related field is required if the candidate does not have a college degree.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience.
  • Familiarity with computerized terminal operating systems.
  • Knowledge of applicable safety and accident-prevention codes and regulations.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must possess, or be able to obtain and maintain, a valid TWIC card.
  • Ability to direct a large, diverse workforce in a fast-paced operational environment.
  • Sound judgment and problem-solving skills under time pressure.
  • Ability to plan and organize work across varied hours, shifts, and days.
  • Effective communication with union workforce, management, and external stakeholders.
  • Ability to work rotating shifts, including days, evenings, and nights, at multiple terminals, with schedules potentially provided on short notice.
  • Ability to work in extreme outdoor temperatures, very dusty conditions, and occasional high-noise conditions, and in an environment with hazards from fast-moving equipment.
  • Ability to drive as required; driving is 20% of the work.

Nice To Haves

  • A college degree is preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Exercise independent judgment and management authority over hiring, assignment, direction, evaluation, discipline, and termination of assigned labor personnel in accordance with company policy and applicable collective bargaining agreements.
  • Direct and assign the work of foremen, supervisory clerks, and other operational personnel based on operational requirements and workforce availability.
  • Interpret, administer, and enforce applicable collective bargaining agreements consistently in day-to-day operations.
  • Investigate workplace incidents, safety violations, and labor complaints; prepare reports and recommendations; and escalate matters to senior management as appropriate.
  • Determine workforce composition and equipment needs to execute operational plans safely, efficiently, and within budget.
  • Manage labor and equipment deployment throughout shifts, adjusting assignments as conditions change to meet performance and operational commitments.
  • Monitor productivity against established standards, identify performance gaps, and implement corrective action.
  • Review operational documentation and verify equipment and gear are ready and compliant before operations begin.
  • Ensure the safety of assigned personnel and enforce company policy, terminal operating procedures, regulatory requirements, and safe work practices.
  • Plan, conduct, and document daily safety meetings in coordination with Health, Safety & Environment personnel, and address identified hazards.
  • Ensure compliance with HAZMAT, OSHA, and other applicable regulatory requirements, and report incidents according to company and regulatory protocols.
  • Verify that required PPE is worn by all personnel on the operation.
  • Promote a respectful, discrimination-free work environment and promptly address workplace concerns or misconduct.
  • Serve as the primary coordination point during operations among vessel personnel, customers, agents, terminal staff, and labor.
  • Support and troubleshoot terminal operating systems and ensure operational data accuracy.
  • Complete and submit shift production, payroll, safety, damage, and other required reports by established deadlines.
  • Perform additional supervisory and operational duties as required.
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