Warehouse Operations Manager I

NFI Industries•Elwood, IL

20d

About The Position

The Warehouse Operations Manager I is responsible for the efficient day-to-day operation of a warehouse ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 square feet, with particular emphasis on managing warehouse personnel and implementing warehouse action plans. The role tracks and records equipment hours, ensures equipment maintenance schedules are followed, and conducts employee meetings. It reports to the General Manager of the Distribution Center. The manager oversees warehouse operations, including shipping and receiving, staffing and labor planning, productivity, equipment utilization, financial reporting, employee relations and development, safety, security, and regulatory compliance. The position may require travel to other warehouses and participation in department or company meetings. It also requires availability to work irregular or extended hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed by the customer.

Requirements

At least 5 years of supervisory experience in a warehouse or distribution environment.
Experience with Warehouse Management Systems; Manhattan is preferred.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
Working knowledge of warehouse and mechanical equipment.
Working knowledge of OSHA, DOT, HAZMAT, and FDA regulations, and willingness to become certified in one or more of these areas as necessary.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage changing priorities using good judgment in stressful situations.
Experience with or desire to learn performance metrics, process improvement, and Lean/Six Sigma tools.
Excellent talent management and team-building skills.
Excellent verbal, non-verbal, and written communication skills.
Excellent customer service skills, particularly with external clients.
Excellent analytical and mathematical skills.
Ability and availability to work irregular or extended hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed by the customer.
Ability to stand or walk for up to 10–12 hours.
Ability to lift and move totes weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to bend, lift, stretch, and reach both below the waist and above the head regularly.
Ability to walk frequently throughout the fulfillment center and surrounding area; facilities are over a quarter mile in length.
Ability to work in variable noise levels, lighting conditions, and temperatures, and access all areas of the building without limitations.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, or a related field preferred.
Experience with Manhattan Warehouse Management System preferred.
Experience with seasonal workforces is a plus, but not required.
Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop a strategic plan with the General Manager to ensure efficient and cost-effective facility operations and utilization.
Ensure shipping and receiving schedules meet operational goals.
Direct warehouse supervisors and warehouse personnel.
Oversee inbound and outbound shipments to ensure accuracy and timely completion.
Audit compliance with internal and external standard operating procedures.
Ensure equipment is used efficiently and equipment maintenance is coordinated with local vendors.
Review daily work objectives and set productivity requirements to meet building objectives during the shift.
Partner with other leaders to balance labor and staffing levels against daily workload.
Match personnel skills and backgrounds to required work.
Analyze workload against labor hours and equipment, and plan long-term labor needs using sales, forecasts, and historical data.
Recommend programs to the General Manager to improve warehouse operations.
Understand how day-to-day decisions affect financial outcomes; learn business financial processes such as budgeting, forecasting, reading the general ledger, Flash, and profit and loss statements.
Run productivity and labor reports to analyze performance gaps.
Ensure daily pre-shift meetings cover prior productivity, operational problems, workload forecasts, and other relevant company information.
Ensure proper staffing and support hiring for facility operations.
Ensure new employees are onboarded, complete required paperwork, and follow a structured training schedule.
Communicate department and individual performance goals to support facility operational success.
Maintain sound human resources practices with direct reports and ensure adherence to corporate and department policies and procedures.
Work with the General Manager and Human Resources to resolve employee relations issues, discipline matters, problems, and terminations.
Provide feedback, coaching, guidance, and recognition to develop employees' skills.
Participate in employee development and talent selection.
Model the company's purpose, vision, and values.
Coach employees, provide performance feedback, prepare and present formal performance appraisals, and make recommendations and approve annual compensation increases.
Stay current on relevant information, tools, and systems for self-development.
Travel to other warehouses and participate in department or company meetings as necessary.
Ensure the warehouse operates safely, cleanly, and efficiently to meet service standards.
Support and participate in facility safety initiatives.
Implement safety and sanitation schedules to ensure compliance with corporate, OSHA, FDA, AIB, or ASI standards.
Conduct safety observations and coach employees on safety procedures.
Improve procedures and facilities to prevent recurring accidents.
Oversee accident investigations, assess root causes, and implement improvements to prevent associate incidents and injuries.