Lead Transload Operator for Savannah, GA Rail Yard - $1,000 Sign-on Bonus

Lead Operator - Sign-On Bonus $1,000

Lead Operator
Department: Operations
Reports To: Operations Manager
Location: 2351 Tremont Road Facility, Savannah, GA

Position Summary Are you a hands-on leader with experience in industrial operations ready to take the next step in your career? As a Lead Operator at Atlantic Marine Warehouse’s 2351 Tremont Road facility in Savannah, GA, you will lead small teams of Transload Operators and labor personnel in the safe and efficient execution of rail transloading, grain handling, material handling, receiving, and shipping activities. This role combines direct leadership and team development with skilled, hands-on operational work to meet customer service objectives, productivity targets, and the highest safety standards. Reporting to the Operations Manager, you will thrive in a fast-paced industrial rail-adjacent environment while championing safety, teamwork, operational excellence, and outstanding housekeeping.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Supervision • Lead, mentor, and support teams of Transload Operators and labor personnel in daily rail transloading, grain transfer, material handling, receiving, warehousing, and shipping activities. • Assign tasks, monitor progress, and provide on-the-job coaching, guidance, and support to help your team succeed. • Perform the same (or more skilled) operational duties alongside your team while stepping in to handle complex tasks as needed. • Foster a positive, collaborative team environment by resolving conflicts fairly, motivating others, and promoting teamwork. • Issue verbal and written disciplinary or corrective actions when necessary, in coordination with management/HR and following company procedures.

Operational & Material Handling • Safely operate forklifts, jockey trucks, container handlers/top lifts, Trackmobiles, and other material handling equipment. • Lead and participate in transloading operations between railcars, trucks, and containers—including opening/closing hatches, gates, and valves; connecting/disconnecting hoses and transfer lines; and operating pumps, conveyors, augers, and grain handling systems. • Ensure proper rail safety procedures are followed at all times, including blue flag protection, derailer placement, and railcar securement. • Utilize terminal management systems (via tablet) for scanning, damage documentation, inventory tasks, and product verification. • Perform accurate product counts, quality checks, sampling, weight verification, and shipment documentation.

Safety & Compliance • Champion and enforce company safety policies, OSHA standards, railroad regulations, and facility procedures. • Lead daily pre-shift equipment inspections, checklists, and 100% PPE compliance for yourself and your team. • Participate in safety meetings and training while ensuring your team reports near-misses, unsafe conditions, and incidents immediately. • Oversee spill prevention, housekeeping (5S standards), and facility cleanliness.

Administrative & Housekeeping • Maintain accurate daily labor logs, team performance records, and other documentation to support prompt payroll processing. • Keep work areas clean, neat, and orderly while directing your team in sustaining 5S principles. • Perform routine equipment cleaning and assist with minor maintenance as needed.

QualificationsRequired: • High School Diploma or GED • At least 2 years of experience in rail transloading, grain handling, bulk material transfer, or industrial warehouse operations • Ability to obtain and maintain a TWIC card • Valid driver’s license • Ability to pass pre-employment screening (background check, drug screen, physical) • Strong communication skills and the ability to train, motivate, and lead team members • Commitment to safety, high attendance, and punctuality.

Preferred: • Previous leadership, team lead, or supervisory experience in an industrial setting • Forklift, jockey truck, or Trackmobile operating experience • Forklift certification (or ability to obtain upon hire) • Basic computer proficiency (email, data entry, Outlook, Excel) • Flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and overtime as required by operational needs.

Physical Requirements • Ability to lift and maneuver materials/equipment up to 50 lbs. regularly (manual labor involved). • Ability to climb ladders/railcars, stand, walk, bend, and perform repetitive tasks for extended periods. • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and at heights when necessary.

Work Environment & Schedule This is a hands-on role in a busy industrial rail yard and grain handling facility in Savannah, GA. You will work around heavy equipment, dust, noise, moving machinery, and outdoor elements as part of a dedicated team committed to safety and excellence. The position features a rotating shift schedule that may include both first and second shift hours (typical second shift: 3:00 PM–11:00 PM), with opportunities for overtime, weekend work, and flexible scheduling based on rail schedules and customer demand.

Operator Progression Path This Lead Operator role is a key leadership step beyond Operator II. Qualified candidates may advance from Operator II based on demonstrated leadership potential, consistent performance, safety record, mentoring ability, and operational needs. Atlantic Marine Warehouse strongly supports internal growth and career development.

Additional Information In addition to the above job duties, employees will be expected to work in various capacities at other locations within the company based on the needs of the company. This job description is not exhaustive or intended to be all-inclusive of all job duties that may apply to an employee of Atlantic Marine Warehouse. Duties may change at any time with or without notice.