The Dry Operations Shift Lead is the frontline leader on shift, directly running day-to-day terminal operations for the safe handling, storage, and transfer of dry bulk materials including rail, vessel, and truck operations. This role executes the plan set by the Dry Operations Supervisor in real time — directing operators, making in-the-moment calls, and ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations for the duration of the shift.
Roles
- Core Values:
- Model and enforce safety, integrity, accountability, and operational excellence on the shift floor, in person, for every task.
- Shift Execution:
- Directly run loading and unloading operations for the shift:
- Railcars
- Vessels
- Trucks
- Equipment Operations Oversight:
- Serve as first point of contact for conveyors, loaders, excavators, and support equipment during the shift; escalate to the Supervisor as needed.
- Safety Leadership:
- Enforce JHAs, permits, and safety protocols at the point of work; stop work when conditions are unsafe.
- Team Leadership:
- Directly lead operators for the shift — assign tasks, coordinate breaks/coverage, and keep activities on schedule.
Responsibilities
Shift Operations Execution
- Run safe and efficient product handling in real time for the shift:
- Vessel discharge/loading
- Rail loading/unloading
- Truck loading
- Make in-the-moment sequencing and priority calls as conditions change during the shift
- Ensure product flow through:
- Conveyors
- Hoppers
- Storage areas
Rail Operations Support
- Execute car spotting and load sequencing as directed by the Dry Operations Supervisor and Rail Supervisor
- Ensure proper connection/disconnection of railcars during the shift
Equipment & Maintenance
- Confirm assigned equipment is inspected at the start of shift and remains properly maintained throughout
- Monitor during the shift:
- Fluid levels
- Filters
- Greasing systems
- Report equipment issues immediately to the Supervisor and initiate work orders
Safety & Compliance
- Conduct and enforce, task by task, for the shift:
- JHAs
- Permit systems
- Serve as first responder on shift and report immediately to the Supervisor:
- All incidents
- Near misses
- Hazards
- Enforce compliance in real time with:
- OSHA
- Environmental requirements
Housekeeping & Quality
- Keep all work areas, conveyors, and equipment clean throughout and at the end of the shift
- Monitor product condition in real time and address as it occurs:
- Contamination
- Spillage
- Dust
Shift Handoff & Communication
- Provide a detailed shift-to-shift turnover to the incoming Shift Lead and the Dry Operations Supervisor
- Keep the Supervisor informed of operational status, issues, and priorities throughout the shift
- Complete shift logs and reports
Operational Support
- Act as signalman for cranes and equipment when needed
- Perform deckhand duties when required
- Complete and submit daily inspection reports
Expectations
- Achieve:
- 100% safe operation on every shift
- 100% railcar completion without issue
- Maintain:
- Clean and organized work areas throughout the shift
- High operational efficiency
- Demonstrate:
- Hands-on, visible leadership on the shift floor
- Sound, timely decision-making under real-time conditions
- Integrity and accountability
- Clear escalation to the Supervisor on issues beyond shift-level authority
Performance Focus / KPIs
- Shift throughput (TPH targets)
- Vessel and truck turnaround during shift
- Equipment uptime during shift
- Safety performance / incident-free shifts
- Housekeeping standards
- Quality and completeness of shift handoff
- Overtime Management based off KPI targets
Qualifications and Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- 4+ years of operation experience
- Experience with:
- Loader, excavator, bobcat, conveyors, Vessels
- Demonstrated ability to lead and direct other operators on shift
- Ability to obtain:
- TWIC card
- Valid driver's license
- Must pass drug screen, physical, background check
Physical Demands
- Outdoor work in all weather conditions
- Climbing, lifting, and confined space work
- Operating heavy equipment
- Lifting up to 50 lbs
- Wearing required PPE at all times
Position Details
- Rotating shift position — days, nights, weekends, and holidays as scheduled
- Subject to call-out
- Reports to the Dry Operations Superintendent
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