Terminal Operations Manager

Terminal Manager - Parker Towing

Fort Wayne, IN

Parker Towing, a division of Guardian Fleet Services

The Terminal Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing the daily operations of a transportation terminal. This includes managing personnel, coordinating logistics, ensuring safety compliance, and fostering a productive work environment. This position reports to the Regional Vice President.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Oversight: Manage budgets, control operating costs, track cash flow, and set competitive pricing for services. Oversee payroll-related processes, including reviewing and approving employee timecards, monitoring labor costs, and managing overtime to ensure operational efficiency and compliance.
• Operations & Dispatch: Supervise daily towing, roadside recovery, and vehicle impound operations. Manage incoming dispatch calls from private motorists, commercial accounts, and local police departments. Supervise and optimize terminal operations to ensure efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance. Schedule and coordinate trucks, drivers, and support staff to meet operational demands. Step in during major recovery operations, accidents, or urgent operational bottlenecks
• Staff Management: Hire, train, schedule, mentor drivers, operators, and yard personnel. Conduct regular team meetings to share updates and address concerns. Manage on-call rotations for emergency and after-hours response. Promote a positive workplace culture and support employee development.
• Fleet Maintenance: Ensure all tow trucks and recovery units stay up to date on inspections, maintenance, and Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIR). Coordinate fast repairs with internal mechanics or external vendors.
• Safety & Compliance: Enforce federal, state, and local safety rules, including Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and Hours of Service (HOS) regulations. Conduct safety briefings and maintain clean driver qualification files.
• Customer & Municipal Relations: Serve as the primary liaison with customers, carriers, and stakeholders to facilitate smooth transactions. Resolve customer service complaints professionally. Act as the primary contact for local law enforcement agencies, property managers, and commercial accounts.

Human Resources Support – Active partner with HR. Participate in recruiting, virtual job fairs, interviewing, onboarding, and employee orientation. Track employee certifications, drug testing, and safety training requirements. 

• Address attendance, conduct, communication, performance, policy concerns, prepare corrective-action document in coordination with Human Resources
• Coordinate uniforms, badges, and employee documentation.
• Track performance metrics and implement strategies for continuous improvement.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and ensure timely distribution of goods.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, suppliers, and partners.
• Prepare and manage terminal budgets, ensuring cost-effective operations.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Strong working knowledge of DOT/FMCSA rules and HOS tracking. Proficient with dispatch software, computer logs, and general office tools. Excellent crisis-management and problem-solving skills under pressure.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in transportation or terminal operations.
• CDL Class A license is a plus.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Proven ability to motivate, mentor, and train staff.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for client and stakeholder engagement.
• In-depth knowledge of logistics, operations, personnel management, and safety regulations.
• Exceptional decision-making, problem-solving, and organizational abilities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and pull up to 50 lbs.
• Frequent bending, reaching, crawling, and climbing.
• Continuous use of hands and physical stamina required.
• Good hearing and vision are essential for safety and performance.

Benefits Offered:

• Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
• Medical, Dental, & Vision plans
• $15k Employer paid Life Insurance and AD&D
• Pet Insurance (NEW!)
• 401(k) plan
• Short Term & Long-Term Disability
• Hospital Indemnity
• Cancer Plan
• Accident Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Referral Bonus

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local laws. We believe that diversity strengthens our organization and are dedicated to providing a workplace free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merits, and business needs.