Operations Manager

Job Details: Job Location: St. Joseph Branch - St. Joseph, MN, Salary Range: $80000.00 - $90000.00Salary/year, Under the general direction of the Director of Operations, the Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing shipping, receiving, inventory, fleet, and distribution operations for the primary warehouse while supporting seven satellite locations. The role partners closely with Purchasing and Sales to ensure efficient, accurate, safe, and compliant operations across the network. Essential job functions and duties include, but are not limited, to:  Leadership & Management Lead, develop, and support shipping, receiving, and delivery fleet personnel Coaching, training, performance management, and discipline Maintain an active leadership role on the company management team Establish and enforce standardized operating procedures across all locationsOperations, Process Improvement & Metrics Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, service levels, scalability, and cost control Design, monitor, and report on key operational metrics including shipping performance, fleet utilization, inventory accuracy, and route efficiency Analyze data to identify trends, risks, and cost-reduction opportunitiesInventory Management & Accuracy Oversee inventory control practices to maintain high inventory accuracy Monitor inventory levels as supply and demand change Partner with Purchasing and Sales to proactively address in-stock, low-stock, and over-stock risks Support cycle counts, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions Recommend improvements to warehouse layout, slotting, and organizationShipping, Fleet & Route Management Manage incoming freight, outbound shipping, and company-owned delivery fleet operations Lead route planning and scheduling to balance efficiency, cost, compliance, and customer service Create load sheets and ensure proper delivery documentation Ensure compliance with truck weight limits, skid counts, and delivery requirementsCompliance, Safety & Equipment Ensure compliance with all applicable transportation and hazardous materials regulations Obtain and maintain 49 CFR Hazardous Materials certification (if not already certified) Ensure proper hazmat training, documentation, and procedures across all locations Oversee fleet maintenance, inspections, and repairs Arrange maintenance for forklifts and warehouse equipment Promote safe work practices and regulatory complianceCulture & Professional Conduct Foster a positive, accountable, and professional work environment Communicate effectively and model strong leadership behaviors Follow company policies and procedures and consistently strive to exceed expectationQUALIFICATIONSThe employee must have demonstrated experience and/or education as outlined below in order to satisfactorily perform the essential job duties and responsibilities. Qualifications may include, but are not limited to: Education & Experience 2–4 years of distribution warehouse or operations management experience requiredBachelor’s degree in a related field preferred Experience with Netsuite ERP preferred US DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR) certification preferredCommunication & Language Skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from vendors, customers, managers, and team members Ability to read, analyze, and interpret business reports, data, and correspondenceMathematical & Analytical Skills Strong working knowledge of basic and intermediate math, including whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages, and volume calculations Ability to analyze figures related to inventory, freight, routing, and costs with a high level of accuracyTechnical Skills & Other Abilities Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) Ability to prioritize, organize, and manage multiple projects simultaneously Working knowledge of, or interest in, livestock or production-based agriculture is a plus Strong problem-solving skills with a continuous improvement mindsetPhysical Demands Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, bend, and use hands for handling objects and data entry Required to talk and hear clearly Vision requirements include close and distance vision Occasionally required to lift and/or move objects up to 25 pounds, and occasionally up to 50 pounds at waist levelTools & Equipment Used Computer, phone, copier, and other standard office equipment Forklift, box knife, push cart, hand jack, two-wheel cart, and tape gunWork Environment Warehouse and office environment with exposure to varying hot and cold temperatures Noise level is typically moderateRequired Protective Equipment Closed-toe shoes or boots Gloves when handling sharp or abrasive materialsQualifications: