Salvage - Lead Dock Runner

Goodwill Greater New York and Northern New Jersey (GWNYNJ) believes that the power of work and sustainable fashion is how we unlock the good in our communities. For over 100 years, we have helped people get jobs, stay employed, and progress in careers across New York and Northern New Jersey. We believe that diversity drives innovation and strengthens our workplace. We are committed to fostering our inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute fully. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, experiences, and abilities.

Dock Runner Job Description

Job Title: Dock Runner

Department: Warehouse / Donated Goods Operations Location: Goodwill Reports To: Warehouse Manager

Position Summary

The Dock Runner supports daily warehouse operations by efficiently moving donated goods, assisting with loading and unloading trucks, ensuring items are accurately distributed to the appropriate areas and trucks/trailers in timely manner. This role is essential for maintaining a safe, organized, and productive dock environment that supports Goodwill’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with loading and unloading trucks and trailers.
• Transport donated goods from the dock to designated processing or storage areas.
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe dock areas, including removal of debris and empty pallets.
• Communicate with forklift drivers, dock associates, and supervisors to support workflow.
• Sort and stage donations as needed to ensure efficient processing.
• Operate pallet jacks, forklift or other warehouse equipment.
• Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and Goodwill operational policies.
• Report hazardous conditions, damaged equipment, or safety concerns immediately.
• Assist in preparing outgoing shipments and ensuring accurate documentation.
• Provide general support to warehouse teams as directed.
• Ensure donations are received, handled, and sorted according to Goodwill NY/NJ standards (sellable, outlet, salvage, recycling, trash).
• Conduct or support pre-shift safety huddles, reinforce safety rules, and immediately address unsafe behavior or conditions.
• Report and document incidents, near-misses, and equipment defects; partner with management on corrective actions.
• 100% compliance on loads for next day.
• Oversees consumable controls and non consumable control in a weekly basis.
  
  

People leadership

• Serve as the on-the-floor lead for dock workers, runners, and possibly transitional/mission participants during the shift.
• Train new dock staff and participants on dock processes, donation handling standards, and safety practices.
• Provide real-time coaching, feedback, and basic performance input to supervisors (e.g., reliability, pace, teamwork).
• Help support a respectful, mission-aligned culture where donors, drivers, and team members are treated with dignity.
  
  

Communication and reporting

• Communicate shift priorities, changes, and expectations at the start of shift and as conditions change.
• Track basic productivity metrics (loads processed, loads departures and arrival time in daily basis, trailers turned, etc.) and share with warehouse leadership.
• Relay issues with delays behavior, recurring quality problems, or store/driver concerns to appropriate leaders.
• Coordinate end-of-shift housekeeping: trash removal, cardboard to baler, securing equipment, and locking dock doors as required.
  
  

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous warehouse, logistics, or retail back-room experience a plus.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work in fast-paced, physically demanding environments.
• Strong teamwork, communication, and time-management skills.
• Dependability and strong work ethic are essential.
• Ability to follow instructions and always operate safely.
• Work schedule open availability Monday – Saturday 8 am – 6 pm.
  
  

Physical Requirements

• Frequent lifting, bending, pushing, and pulling.
• Ability to work in varying temperatures (dock doors open, warehouse environment).
• Ability to safely operate pallet jacks and other warehouse equipment (training provided).
  
  

Work Environment

• Busy warehouse dock with constant movement of goods and equipment.
• Collaborative team environment focused on supporting Goodwill’s mission of job creation and community impact.
  
  

We believe in creating space for everyone to do their best work and have individual and collective impact. We believe in challenging the status quo and setting ambitious goals in the name of doing more good. We believe that being your best self and helping others do the same is how we bring our mission alive. Even if you don’t think you meet all the qualifications listed for the job, we would love to hear from you!

If you require a reasonable accommodation at any point in the application or interview process, or if you are unable to apply through our recruitment portal, please contact us at humanresources@goodwillny.org. We are happy to assist and ensure you have an equal opportunity to apply.