Shipping Lead

Job Description Shipping Lead at Milgard Windows and Doors (Part of MITER Brands) in Tacoma, WA Compensation Range: $26.81 - $33.00 Day Shift: Monday through Friday The Shipping Lead supports the Shipping Supervisor in achieving daily departmental goals while reinforcing expectations and best practices with team members. This role serves as a key resource for the shipping team, providing leadership, training, and work direction in the absence of the supervisor. The Shipping Lead leads by example through safe work practices, strong performance, professionalism, and a commitment to quality. This position is cross-trained and proficient in all non-exempt shipping functions and partners closely with internal teams to ensure efficient shipping operations, inventory accuracy, and on-time deliveries. The ideal candidate demonstrates integrity, accountability, and strong communication skills while fostering a positive and productive work environment. The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday; however, occasional Saturday work, mandatory overtime, and schedule adjustments may be required during peak business periods and may occur with limited notice. About MITER Brands MITER Brands is one of the nation's largest manufacturers of residential windows and doors, serving both the new construction and replacement markets. United by a passion for quality and a relentless pursuit of excellence, MITER Brands brings together industry-leading brands to deliver innovative products and exceptional customer experiences across North America. The company employs more than 8,000 team members and serves thousands of customers each year through its family of trusted window and door brands. At MITER Brands, people are at the center of everything we do. We are committed to fostering a people-first culture where safety, teamwork, integrity, and continuous improvement drive our success. Our team members are empowered to make an impact, grow their careers, and help us achieve our purpose: Building the most valued window and door brand in America Essential Duties and Responsibilities Safety & Compliance Promote and maintain a safe work environment by following all safety policies, procedures, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements. Ensure team members adhere to safety standards and PPE requirements at all times. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe shipping area before the end of each shift. Shipping Operations & Inventory Management Follow and enforce quality standards related to material handling, loading procedures, securement practices, and inventory management. Understand daily and weekly departmental priorities and effectively communicate expectations to team members. Monitor workflow and ensure all assigned tasks are completed accurately and on time. Verify proper labeling and identification of all shipping-related products, including windows, doors, screens, specialty items, and custom products. Maintain inventory accuracy by following established inventory control procedures, color-coding systems, and logging requirements. Effectively manage returned products and communicate the status of returned materials as needed. Coordinate and manage add-on items and last-minute shipment changes. Leadership & Team Development Provide guidance, training, and support to shipping team members, including onboarding and training new employees. Assist in evaluating new team members during their introductory period and provide feedback to the Shipping Supervisor. Maintain efficient department operations in the absence of the supervisor. Foster a positive, engaged, and accountable team environment through open, honest, and respectful communication. Address routine performance concerns and refer more serious employee issues to the Shipping Supervisor. Loading & Transportation Train team members on proper truck loading procedures and shipment preparation. Understand and apply best practices related to stop sequencing, customer-specific requirements, weight distribution, space utilization, and product protection. Effectively plan and organize truck loads while maintaining quality and safety standards. Build crates, package products, and prepare materials for shipment as needed. Communicate effectively with drivers, transportation partners, production teams, and customer service personnel to ensure seamless operations. Administrative & Additional Responsibilities Assist the Shipping Supervisor with daily administrative and closing duties. Complete required shipping documentation accurately and ensure proper closeout procedures are followed. Operate department equipment as needed and demonstrate a willingness to learn new equipment and processes. Support special projects, seasonal activities, and other duties as assigned, including winter dock procedures and other operational needs. Qualifications Previous experience in shipping, warehouse, logistics, or manufacturing operations preferred. Demonstrated leadership ability and experience directing the work of others. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Ability to effectively prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment. Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Ability to build positive working relationships across departments. Ability to operate a forklift and successfully obtain and maintain company forklift certification. Willingness to work overtime and adjusted schedules as business needs require. Physical Requirements Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift throughout the workday. Ability to lift and move materials in accordance with company safety guidelines. Ability to work in a warehouse or manufacturing environment with varying temperatures and conditions. This position plays a critical role in ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate shipping operations while supporting team development and operational excellence. #MITERtac What We Offer At MITER Brands, we invest in your health, wealth, and wellness. Our comprehensive benefits package supports you and your eligible spouse/dependents while helping you achieve your personal and professional goals. We offer competitive pay, a 401(k) with company match, and generous paid time off to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance. Health & Wellness Three comprehensive medical plan options Prescription drug coverage Dental insurance Vision insurance Teladoc virtual healthcare services Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Annual Wellness Clinic Financial Protection Company-paid Life Insurance Voluntary Life Insurance Company-paid Short-Term Disability Company-paid Long-Term Disability Supplemental Hospital Indemnity Insurance Critical Illness Insurance Accident Insurance Additional Benefits Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays 401(k) retirement plan with company match Tuition Reimbursement Program Legal Insurance Identity Theft Protection Pet Insurance Team Member Discount Program MITER Brands, including MI Windows and Doors, Milgard, and PGT Innovations, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other protected status under applicable law. Work Authorization and Sponsorship Disclosure: The Company does not offer employer sponsorship at this time. Therefore, candidates must provide truthful and complete information regarding their eligibility to work in the U.S. and any current or future need for employment sponsorship. Misrepresentation regarding work authorization or sponsorship need at any stage of the hiring process will result in disqualification from consideration, rescission of an employment offer, or termination of employment. WE HAVE ONE PURPOSE: BUILD THE MOST VALUED WINDOW AND DOOR BRAND IN AMERICA. But, like all great things, that journey starts by bringing together a team of the most passionate, experienced and dedicated window experts in the industry. From our team to our customers and our communities, we strive to inspire deeper engagements and new possibilities for all. Because we believe that business is always personal.