Shipping Manager

SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE

The Shipping Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of shipping operations, inventory management, and team leadership including forklift drivers, office staff, and support personnel. This role ensures that outbound fruit shipments meet customer specifications, are dispatched on time, and comply with quality and food safety standards, while also managing the intake of imported, purchased, and 3PL-managed fruit.

The manager provides both technical and administrative oversight to daily operations and is committed to developing a high-performing, process-oriented team. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience in warehousing or packing operations for perishable commodities, exceptional attention to detail, and strong leadership in a fast-paced environment. This position directly supervises five or more team members and plays a key role in maintaining efficiency, accuracy, and service excellence across the shipping operation.

JOB FUNCTIONS

Shipping Operations Management

• Oversee outbound fruit movement, ensuring all shipments meet customer specifications and are dispatched on time.
• Coordinate inventory movement and storage between internal and external facilities.
• Manage and oversee incoming imported fruit, track inventory, coordinate inspections, and maintain accurate records.
• Maintain continuous communication with the packinghouse and sales departments.
• Oversee manifest administrative functions and ensure accurate reporting to Sales, USDA, and the Indian River Citrus League.

Inventory & Cooler Management

• Report daily inventory levels, exceptions, and outages; identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
• Manage inventory using FIFO (First-In, First-Out) procedures to ensure freshness and accuracy.
• Develop and distribute aged inventory reports; conduct routine floor counts and update the BC365 system as needed.
• Monitor and maintain proper temperature and humidity levels in cooling facilities, including digital recorder functionality and connectivity.
• Ensure cooler operations function efficiently; report and follow up on maintenance issues.

Process Improvement & Oversight 

• Maintain and continuously improve processes within the shipping department.
• Utilize company systems and software (e.g., BC365, Microsoft Office) to enhance efficiency and operational oversight.

Leadership & Administration

• Coach, mentor, develop, and train team members; evaluate and track employee performance.
• Handle administrative responsibilities including inventory reporting, PIQ (Packers Inspection Quality) documentation, labor management, and budgets.
• Maintain Food Safety documentation for the shipping department and cooler operations.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety standards, including forklift operations and employee training.

Collaboration & Problem Solving

• Coordinate with other departments to ensure efficient product movement and exceptional service for internal and external customers.
• Identify trends and issues; troubleshoot and implement effective solutions.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum 2 years experience in distribution leadership required – perishable and/or citrus preferred 
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Supply Chain & Logistics, or related work experience of 5 years  
• Detail oriented, organized, and committed to quality 
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred
• Customer service focused and results driven 
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal and coaching skills
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills with proven problem-solving ability 
• Operational knowledge of food safety standards, regulations, and compliance 
• Knowledge of safe work practices, including OSHA regulations, forklift certification, and training 
• Ability to effectively communicate with multiple levels across the organization 
• Ability to operate a forklift safely and effectively 

WORK HOURS & ENVIRONMENT

50 hours work week and required to work additional hours during peak times or as needed.  Weekends and nights are required as needed.     

• Work is performed indoors in packinghouse environment – cooler 45 degrees F 
• Working around machinery 
• Working around moving vehicles 
• Working in close proximity to others 
• Will be required to wear appropriate safety protection when needed. 

COMPANY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE THE JOB DESCRIPTION AND/OR REQUIRE ADDITIONAL DUTIES AT ITS DISCRETION.  DRUG FREE WORKPLACE, EOE and E-VERIFY