Operations / TADS Supervisor - Nights

AWCT•Chicago, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Operations/TADS Supervisor must interface with the Assistant Rail Supervisor, yard crew and TADS Coordinators. The overall objective of this position is to assign, direct and assist with rail/yard operations for customer vehicle loading, unloading and baying, while managing direct reports to get work completed safely, efficiently and according to standards. This position provides frontline leadership, supervision, and operational oversight for the TADS Coordinator function supporting rail load building, railcar inventory accuracy, facility paper flow, and coordination with Norfolk Southern and AWCT management. AWCT is family-owned and operated. Our vision: We are the premier provider of finished vehicle logistics in the United States. Our mission: We take pride in delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality service for every customer vehicle. Our values: We respect each person's preferences and perspectives. The Operations Supervisor models behavior that supports the vision, mission, and values.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
Valid state driver's license required and must be maintained
Ability to work outdoors up to 75% of the time in all weather conditions
Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, including the AAR Manual
Mechanical aptitude sufficient to calculate load counts, maintain inventory accuracy, and ensure proper railcar loading
Computer proficiency, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Time & Attendance systems
Ability to pass AWCT Safe Driving, Buck Ramp, and Rail Safety tests with 80% or higher accuracy
Good sense of balance and ability to maintain three points of contact in accordance with safety regulations
Ability to work at heights of at least 15 feet above ground
Ability to safely operate both automatic and manual transmission vehicles
Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in extreme weather conditions
Knowledge of effective coaching, mentoring, and employee development techniques
Ability to administer corrective action and maintain accountability in accordance with policy and collective bargaining requirements
Strong organizational, decision‑making, and problem‑solving skills
Ability to resolve conflict and build effective working relationships
Customer‑focused, results‑oriented mindset
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to adapt to changing operational demands
Treats all individuals with respect and dignity
Maintains a positive attitude and works effectively in a team‑oriented environment
Demonstrates ethical behavior and professionalism at all times

Nice To Haves

Minimum six (6) months of experience leading or supervising others
Six (6) months of rail preparation, loading, or unloading experience preferred
One (1) year or more of supervisory experience in a manufacturing or logistics environment preferred

Responsibilities

Assign, direct, and oversee work for Assistant Rail Supervisors and railcar loading/unloading and yard crews to ensure efficient operations.
Train and assist in onboarding new hourly associates and temporary workers in rail loading and unloading processes.
Perform and oversee daily preventive maintenance on rail equipment, including setting brakes, opening doors, and preparing equipment for safe operations; set chocks for vehicle loading as needed.
Ensure railcars are properly loaded and unloaded in compliance with AAR standards, customer requirements, and AWCT policies, procedures, and processes.
Oversee vehicle movement within the yard to maintain safety, efficiency, and compliance.
Supervise, coach, and provide daily direction to TADS Coordinator personnel to ensure accurate inventory control, rail load building support, and timely completion of assigned duties.
Monitor railcar inventory activity within Norfolk Southern proprietary systems and other inventory tools to maintain real-time accuracy, documentation integrity, and operational compliance.
Coordinate with AWCT management, Norfolk Southern representatives, railroad management, crew members, and other stakeholders regarding railcar arrivals, departures, availability, way billing, and operational status.
Review and verify that required paperwork, way billing, reporting, and facility paper flow are complete, accurate, and submitted according to operational requirements.
Identify, analyze, escalate, and resolve operational issues affecting railcar processing, inventory accuracy, documentation, or customer service to minimize disruptions.
Prepare, review, and communicate daily, weekly, and monthly operational reports for AWCT and Norfolk Southern as directed by facility management.
Support employee training, scheduling, workload prioritization, attendance monitoring, and performance documentation in coordination with facility management and Human Resources.
Conduct operational and safety audits, identify deficiencies, and recommend or implement corrective actions.
Administer and enforce the collective bargaining agreement, including holding hourly associates accountable to contractual requirements.
Manage bargaining‑unit employees, including coaching, mentoring, performance feedback, and issuing disciplinary reprimands when necessary.
Ensure accurate reporting and approval of employee time and attendance for proper wage payment.
Enforce safety programs and maintain a safe, clean workplace in compliance with local, state, federal, and OSHA regulations.
Adapt effectively to changing operational needs and perform additional essential duties as assigned.