Head of Operations Management (m/w/d)

Pay Rate: $85,000 per year

Schedule: Tuesday - Saturday, 12pm - 10pm

Forward Air is seeking a capable and career-oriented Operations Manager to lead our fast-paced shipping/dock operation. The ideal candidate will supervise and coordinate all activities of dockworkers and other support personnel, provide planning for and direction to control available resources associated with the timely, damage‑free, and safe loading/unloading of freight on assigned shifts. In addition, the candidate will provide dockworker training, performance feedback, and recommend disciplinary actions when necessary. This position reports directly to the Terminal Manager.

Core Responsibilities & Duties

Ensure all work is performed according to Forward Air approved procedures, standards, and specifications for dock operations.

Guarantee FA audit compliance within all areas of the operation.

Review terminal operating reports and adjust labor schedules for increased efficiencies.

Create onboarding strategies for hiring, training, and overall employee retention.

Focus on employee development: organic growth through cross‑training and D.R.I.V.E. reviews.

Ensure accurate daily asset reporting: trailers, forklifts, TAP scanners, load bars and containers.

Manage and react to day‑to‑day operational requirements in a professional and timely manner.

Drive KPI’s set forth by the Terminal Manager.

Directly supervise all activities of dockworkers and support personnel engaged in loading and unloading trucks and trailers.

Assign job tasks to workers according to unloading and loading schedules.

Ensure appropriate load plans and proper load balance to ensure safe vehicle operation.

Coordinate work assignments, monitor performance, and provide training on relevant job duties.

Provide a clean, safe working environment for all personnel and visiting customers.

Foster safe handling, loading, unloading, and storage of hazardous materials as provided by the Department of Transportation.

Must be able to frequently lift and/or move up to fifty (50) pounds.

Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to ninety (90) pounds.

Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Strong team player that thrives in a fast‑paced environment.

Ability to drive performance of direct reports and lead a team in a lean manufacturing environment.

Understand P&L statements and analyze areas for production improvement.

Willingness to work various shifts and days per week.

Prior air freight experience is required.

International/Import experience is a plus.

Five (5) or more years of supervisory experience in a high‑volume, fast‑paced transportation environment.

Demonstrated leadership ability.

Knowledge of proper freight handling techniques.

Knowledge of hazardous materials handling.

Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of operations.

Flexible to work weekends and nights.

Forklift and general freight handling experience.

Skills

Ideal candidate will possess a “can do” attitude with a “will do” work ethic.

Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.

General computer skills - Microsoft Office, Outlook, AS400.

Excellent communication and problem‑solving skills.

Forward Air is an Equal Opportunity employer.

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