Manager Transportation Operations

Distribution & Transportation

$75K — $95K *
Transportation
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7+ years of leadership experience in operations, preferably transportation
  • Proven experience managing fleet operations, dispatch, or maintenance teams
  • Bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent experience
  • Strong understanding of transportation logistics and warehouse operations
  • Working knowledge of DOT and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
  • Strong analytical mindset focused on data-driven decisions
  • Excellent communication skills across all organizational levels

Responsibilities

  • Own end-to-end fleet performance, including dispatch and maintenance
  • Ensure on-time delivery and optimize routing and trip efficiency
  • Manage fleet maintenance for safety and compliance
  • Drive accountability for KPIs like service levels and productivity
  • Lead and develop transportation teams, fostering collaboration
  • Support hiring and performance management for team growth
  • Identify inefficiencies and pursue continuous improvement opportunities

Benefits

  • Be at the forefront of continuous improvement and operational excellence
  • Drive service efficiency and impact customer satisfaction
  • Manage critical operations and influence enterprise-level decisions
  • Opportunity to grow and develop teams and leadership skills
Full Job Description
Manager II, Transportation

Drive Operational Excellence. Lead a High-Performing Fleet. Make an Impact.

We're looking for a results-driven Transportation Manager II to lead our private fleet operations and play a critical role in delivering exceptional service to our stores and customers. In this role, you'll oversee transportation, dispatch, maintenance, and salvage functions-ensuring safety, efficiency, and continuous improvement across the network.
You'll lead a talented team, collaborate cross-functionally, and influence strategic decisions that directly impact service levels, cost optimization, and operational performance.

What You'll Do
Lead Operations & Deliver Results
• Own end-to-end fleet performance, including over-the-road operations, dispatch, maintenance, and salvage
• Ensure on-time delivery to stores and optimize routing, utilization, and trip efficiency
• Manage fleet maintenance to ensure safe, compliant, and cost-effective operations
• Drive accountability for KPIs including service levels, cost, safety, and productivity
Build & Develop High-Performing Teams
• Lead, coach, and develop supervisors and their teams across transportation, dispatch, and maintenance
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Support hiring, performance management, and career development
• Serve as a mentor and change agent, helping teams adapt and grow
Collaborate Across the Business
• Partner with Distribution Center leaders, Store Operations, and senior leadership to ensure exceptional service
• Work closely with 3PL partners and vendors to optimize logistics, backhauls, and costs
• Engage with vendors to evaluate performance, negotiate value, and improve outcomes
Drive Continuous Improvement
• Identify inefficiencies and aggressively pursue waste reduction opportunities
• Champion Lean principles and build a culture of continuous improvement
• Lead initiatives to improve throughput, working conditions, and operational effectiveness
• Ensure sustainability of process improvements across the operation
Ensure Compliance & Operational Excellence
• Maintain strict adherence to DOT regulations and safety standards
• Oversee fleet systems including routing, onboard technology, and driver pay programs
• Manage budgets, asset utilization, and inventory for fleet and maintenance operations
• Ensure fleet cleanliness, reliability, and professional standards
What You Bring
Experience & Background
• 5-7+ years of leadership experience in operations (transportation strongly preferred)
• Experience managing fleet operations, dispatch, and/or maintenance teams
• Bachelor's degree preferred (or equivalent experience)
Knowledge
• Strong understanding of transportation logistics and warehouse operations
• Working knowledge of DOT and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
Skills That Set You Apart
• Strong analytical mindset with a focus on data-driven decisions
• Excellent communication skills across all levels-from drivers to executives
• Proven ability to solve complex operational challenges and make sound decisions
• Experience driving cost optimization and efficiency improvements
Work Style & Abilities
• Thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities
• Comfortable managing multiple priorities and leading through change
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule and travel as needed
• Ability to meet physical demands of the role when required
Why Join Us?
• Make an impact: Your work directly drives service, efficiency, and customer satisfaction
• Lead at scale: Manage critical operations and influence enterprise-level decisions
• Grow your career: Develop teams, lead initiatives, and expand your leadership footprint
• Innovate & improve: Be at the forefront of continuous improvement and operational excellence

If you're a strategic, hands-on leader who thrives on improving operations and leading teams to success-we'd love to hear from you.

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