Operations Manager

About the role

The Operations Manager reports directly to the management of a small to large size transportation Service Center. This position oversees a diverse range of LTL operations across multiple shifts within a fast-paced environment, including working in various weather conditions on the dock. The role is responsible for keeping freight moving within safety and business guidelines while maintaining strong, positive relationships with customers.

Responsibilities

• Lead, guide, and direct employees, including setting goals, monitoring performance, providing coaching, counseling, and development.
• Manage an efficient, clean, and safe LTL operation, including dock planning and scheduling.
• Oversee hiring, training, and terminations, ensuring all paperwork is processed according to company guidelines.
• Administer and execute assigned portions of the Service Center Business plan as directed by the Service Center Manager.
• Manage all Service Center operations in the absence of the Service Center Manager or Assistant Service Center Manager.
• Enforce compliance with all company policies, safety rules, and government regulations.
• Ensure the Service Center meets all assigned KPIs.
• Oversee timely pickup and delivery of freight and verify freight for billing accuracy.
• Monitor loading of trucks to ensure proper handling and distribution of freight for safe transport.
• Enforce safety measures to maintain balance of freight for safe truck operation.
• Direct investigations into customer complaints and recommend solutions to address them.
• Coordinate drivers, assign trucks, and plan delivery routes for pickup and delivery of freight.
• Record transport details, including departure times, delivery times, and other pertinent information.
• Conduct safety interviews with drivers, including post-accident reports, workers' compensation interviews, and road observation discussions.
• Provide safety training following accidents, workers' compensation incidents, or notices of violations.
• Regular attendance is required.

This is not an all-inclusive list of job requirements. Operational, safety, and other needs may require the employee to perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or General Educational Degree (GED), or equivalent combination of education and experience. Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of supervisory experience preferred.
• Knowledge of all aspects of an LTL service center preferred.
• Strong computer skills (AS/400 and MS Office a plus).
• Excellent leadership skills, including hiring, coaching, counseling, training, mentoring, and terminating employees.
• Customer service focus.
• Some travel required.
• Excellent verbal, written, and listening communication skills.
• Strong planning and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of hazardous materials preferred.
• Strong work ethic and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to work an average of 50 hours per week, including nights, weekends, and in various weather conditions.
• Ability to lift approximately 20 lbs. or more as required by job functions.
• Ability to comply with all company policies, rules, procedures, and Code of Conduct.
• Ability to work independently or in a team setting.
• Capability to work under tight time constraints in a high-volume environment with multiple priorities.
• Ability to read, interpret, and comply with written information, such as safety rules and procedure manuals.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen, random drug/alcohol tests, and a criminal history background check.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Regularly required to talk or hear.
• Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Frequently required to sit and use hands to operate computers and other standard office equipment.
• Occasionally required to stand, walk, lift, twist, turn, and reach with hands and arms.
• Must be capable of lifting a minimum of 20 lbs. or more as required by job functions.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Frequently exposed to work near moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne particles.
• May be required to work in high or precarious places, with hazardous materials, and in various weather conditions.
• Noise levels in the work environment range from quiet to loud, depending on job functions.

About the Company

Estes is the largest privately owned freight carrier in North America. As an asset-based transportation provider with a global footprint, Estes delivers reliable freight solutions and exceptional service. With nearly a century of freight shipping expertise, Estes operates a robust fleet and a vast network of over 10,000 doors and 280 terminals. The company offers comprehensive transportation solutions, including Less Than Truckload (LTL), Volume LTL, Truckload, Time Critical Guaranteed, Custom Shipping and Logistics, and Final Mile.

Our mission is to deliver responsive freight solutions so our employees and customers can focus on what matters most. Estes fosters a family-inspired culture built on integrity and trust, driving the way we work. We value a diverse workforce and believe outcomes improve when our team brings together different viewpoints.