Operations Supervisor

Des Plaines, IL, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Salary

Exact $75,000.00

Work Schedule

Weekend Shifts

Fixed Shifts

Night Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

performance bonuses

Training and Development

Employee assistance program

Job Description

Forward Air is a leading provider of time-definite surface transportation and related logistics services, specializing in expedited freight services across the United States and Canada. With a commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction, Forward Air operates a comprehensive network of terminals, employing advanced technology and systems to ensure efficient cargo handling and delivery. As a private company known for its dedication to safety, reliability, and innovation, Forward Air maintains a strong presence in the logistics and transportation industry. The company’s culture emphasizes teamwork, professional growth, and a proactive approach to meeting the challenges of ever-evolving supply chain demands.

The role of Operations Supervisor at Forward Air is vital to maintaining the smooth and efficient operation of freight handling on assigned shifts. This full-time position offers a competitive annual salary of $75,000 and requires working hours from 5 PM to 1:30 AM, Monday through Friday. The Operations Supervisor will play a critical leadership role by overseeing dockworkers, drivers, and support personnel responsible for the loading and unloading of freight. This position not only involves direct supervision and coordination of daily activities but also demands a proactive approach to training, performance management, and safety compliance.

In this role, the Operations Supervisor is responsible for planning and directing all available resources to ensure timely, damage-free, and secure movement of freight. The supervisor facilitates communication between team members, enforces operational standards and procedures, and acts as a problem solver within the terminal environment. Attention to detail and a commitment to safety are essential, as the supervisor will also monitor equipment maintenance and facility conditions to uphold Forward Air’s quality and security standards.

Furthermore, the Operations Supervisor is instrumental in implementing load plans that ensure vehicle safety and efficiency, balancing the load to prevent accidents and damage. The role requires strong leadership skills to motivate teams, manage workforce performance, and provide constructive feedback. Additionally, the supervisor will conduct facility inspections, assist in loading and unloading tasks when necessary, and play a role in workforce training, thus fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

This position suits individuals with considerable management experience in fast-paced, high-volume distribution or logistics environments, preferably within the air freight sector. Ideal candidates possess a blend of leadership aptitude, operational knowledge, and a cooperative team spirit, enabling them to thrive in a demanding and dynamic work setting. Forward Air values employee flexibility, particularly the willingness to work nights and weekends as business needs arise. Through this opportunity, the Operations Supervisor contributes directly to Forward Air’s reputation for dependable service and operational quality.

Job Requirements

Management experience (5-7 years preferred)
Experience in high-volume, fast distribution environment
Bachelor’s degree preferred
Knowledge of freight handling techniques
Prior air freight experience
Ability to lead and motivate teams
Effective communication skills
Flexibility to work nights and weekends
Forklift experience
Knowledge of DOT rules and regulations
Ability to lift up to 90 pounds occasionally

Job Qualifications

Must have management experience (5-7 years preferred) in a high-volume, fast distribution environment
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Management, Logistics, or Industrial Engineering preferred
Previous route planning experience
Strong team player that thrives in a fast-paced environment
Ability to drive performance of direct reports and lead a team in a lean manufacturing environment
Prior air freight experience is required
International/Import experience is a plus
Must possess demonstrated leadership ability
Knowledge of proper freight handling techniques
Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of operations
Must be flexible to work weekends and nights
Forklift and general freight handling experience
Knowledge of Department of Transportation (DOT) rules and regulations
Experience with a contingent workforce during peak seasons
Must be able to frequently lift and/or move up to fifty (50) pounds
Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move up to ninety (90) pounds

Job Duties

Ensure all work is performed according to Forward Air approved procedures, standards, and specifications for dock operations
Directly supervise all activities of dockworkers and support personnel engaged in loading and unloading trucks and trailers
Assign job tasks to workers according to unloading and loading schedules
Provide guidance to subordinates on goals and objectives on a weekly basis
Maintain appropriate load plans
Ensure proper maintenance of facility, forklift equipment, trailers and handling supplies
Execute appropriate load plans and proper load balance to ensure safe vehicle operation
Coordinate work assignments, monitor performance, and provide training on relevant job duties
Maintain facility appearance, condition and security
Perform facility inspections
Assist in the loading and unloading of trailers
Other duties as assigned