Operations Labor Manager

SSA Marine•La Porte, TX

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. As a key representative of company management, the manager is accountable for safety, security, productivity, labor relations, and operational execution. The position manages workforce deployment and labor relations, plans and executes operations, and ensures compliance with safety, security, and regulatory requirements. It coordinates among vessel personnel, customers, agents, terminal staff, and labor; supports terminal operating systems; and completes required operational reports. The role supervises assigned union labor personnel, including foremen and supervisory clerks. The manager works rotating shifts—including days, evenings, and nights—at multiple terminals, with schedules potentially provided on short notice. The work may involve extreme hot and cold temperatures, extremely dusty conditions, occasional high noise, and hazards associated with fast-moving equipment. The position requires driving approximately 20%. Salary range: $70,000–$80,000 per year. Final compensation may vary based on experience, skill set, geographic market, and other relevant factors.

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 an Operations Management or related field is required; a college degree is preferred.
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; schedules may be provided on short notice.
Ability to work in extreme outdoor temperatures, extremely dusty conditions, and occasional high-noise conditions, including an environment that may be hazardous to people unable to see and hear fast-moving equipment.
Ability to drive 20%.

Nice To Haves

A college degree is preferred.

Responsibilities

Exercise 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 foremen, supervisory clerks, and other operational personnel based on operational requirements and workforce availability.
Interpret, administer, and enforce applicable collective bargaining agreements 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.
Deploy labor and equipment throughout the shift and adjust 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.
Enforce company policy, terminal operating procedures, regulatory requirements, and safe work practices, and maintain accountability for the safety of assigned personnel.
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; report incidents according to company and regulatory protocols.
Verify that all personnel on the operation wear required PPE.
Ensure a respectful, discrimination-free work environment and promptly address workplace concerns or misconduct.
Coordinate 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, and damage reports within established deadlines.
Perform additional supervisory and operational duties as required.