Warehouse Lead (1st shift)

CJ Logistics HR Team•Elwood, IL

41d•Onsite

About The Position

The Warehouse Lead coordinates and oversees daily warehouse operations as directed by management. The role may assign work, coach employees, and provide operational support, serving as a resource for process improvement, training, and maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and productivity. The position is on-site in a warehouse and distribution center, with a first-shift schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Work hours may vary by shift assignment and may include evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime based on business needs. The Warehouse Lead may also perform production work using material handling equipment, including forklifts and electric pallet jacks, to support workflow, business demands, staffing coverage, and operational targets. The work environment includes varying temperatures, noise, dust, odors, airborne particles, concrete flooring, mechanical equipment, and warehouse vehicle traffic. Required PPE includes steel-toed shoes, safety glasses, and high-visibility vests. CJ Logistics provides integrated logistics services and supply chain solutions, with a focus on social responsibility and sustainability through growth with customers and communities. The company serves regulated industries including food and beverage, consumer-packaged goods, healthcare and medical supplies, and tire and automotive.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent, or equivalent relevant experience.
At least three years of related experience.
Extensive knowledge of warehouse practices, policies, and procedures.
Demonstrated ability to teach, coach, and delegate operational tasks.
Ability to operate forklift equipment, including electric pallet jacks assigned to the building.
Basic math and reading skills.
Strong interpersonal communication and conflict-resolution skills.
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Ability to operate material handling equipment, including forklifts and electric pallet jacks.
Ability to meet the stated physical demands, including lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling up to 50 pounds and occasionally lifting heavier items with or without assistance.
Ability to work in the described warehouse environment and wear required PPE.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in warehouse or logistics environments.
Prior experience leading or training warehouse teams.
Exposure to basic employment law and workplace safety regulations.
Familiarity with warehouse management systems (WMS).
Familiarity with labor management systems and process improvement methods.
Familiarity with electronic record-keeping and label printing systems.
Experience collaborating with customer operations or inventory teams.

Responsibilities

Assign daily tasks to warehouse production employees and support staff to promote efficient workflow and coverage.
Monitor warehouse-floor operations and provide real-time problem-solving and support.
Assist with scheduling and planning warehouse activities as directed by the Supervisor.
Perform production work using material handling equipment, including forklifts and electric pallet jacks, as needed to support workflow and business demands.
Serve as a role model and resource for operational excellence across warehouse roles.
Coach and provide on-the-job training to new and existing employees on operational procedures and safety practices.
Collaborate with the Warehouse Trainer to certify employee skill sets and support ongoing development.
Conduct regular audits of warehouse processes, policies, and trailer operations to ensure compliance.
Foster positive employee relations and assist with conflict resolution as needed.
Support process improvement initiatives and participate in site safety and leadership training.
Promote and enforce PPE use and adherence to safety protocols.
Communicate with warehouse staff, supervisors, and management to share updates and resolve issues.
Encourage a positive workplace culture through leadership, team building, and recognition.
Perform other related duties as assigned or required.