The Outbound Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all outbound warehouse activities, including order picking, packing, staging, and shipping. This role ensures efficient, accurate, and timely fulfillment of outbound orders while maintaining a safe and productive environment. The manager leads and develops outbound teams, drives continuous improvement, and ensures operational performance meets company standards in a high-volume distribution setting.
1. Daily Operations Management
Direct and oversee outbound functions: picking, packing, staging, and shipping.
Ensure timely and accurate order fulfillment based on customer and carrier requirements.
2. Team Leadership
Manage, coach, and develop outbound supervisors and warehouse associates.
Lead daily team huddles, communicate expectations, and drive accountability.
Conduct performance evaluations and support employee development.
3. Performance & Metrics
Monitor KPIs including pick rate, order accuracy, shipping compliance, and labor utilization.
Analyze performance data and implement corrective actions for continuous improvement.
4. Process Improvement
Identify process bottlenecks and operational inefficiencies.
Collaborate cross-functionally to implement Lean principles and improve workflow.
5. Inventory & Equipment Coordination
Partner with inventory control to ensure product availability and order readiness.
Ensure safe operation and upkeep of material handling equipment.
6. Safety & Compliance
Enforce OSHA and company safety policies.
Lead safety inspections, incident investigations, and team safety training.
7. Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with inbound, replenishment, and transportation departments to maintain operational flow.
Liaise with customer service teams to resolve order or delivery concerns promptly.
Education & Experience:
High school diploma or GED required; degree preferred.
3–5 years of experience in warehouse operations, including 2+ years leading outbound or shipping teams.
3–5 years of supervisory experience with responsibility for hiring, discipline, and performance reviews.
Skills & Abilities:
Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
Proven experience using WMS, RF scanners, and routing/shipping systems.
Solid understanding of outbound warehouse flow and performance metrics.
Ability to manage competing priorities and work flexible hours (including evenings/weekends).
Proficiency in process improvement and continuous operational enhancement.
Strong problem-solving and organizational abilities.
Flexible availability required (including evenings and weekends).
Work involves exposure to high noise levels, dirt/dust, and moving equipment.
Physical activity includes lifting and carrying up to 40 lbs, climbing stairs, and extended standing/walking.
Face-to-face leadership and collaboration with warehouse and cross-functional teams.
Direct authority over team leads and supervisors; responsible for performance management and operational success.
Decisions significantly impact departmental productivity, safety, and customer satisfaction.
Involves regular contact with internal teams and external partners.
Contributes to budgeting, resource planning, and execution strategy for outbound operations.