Distribution Center Manager

Lucas James Talent Partners; Ontario; On-site; USD 85,000 - 118,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in warehousing and distribution is seeking a hands-on Distribution Center Manager for its Ontario, California operation. This pivotal role involves managing warehouse operations, driving efficiency, safety compliance, and developing a high-performing team within a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Disability insurance

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of progressive experience in distribution operations.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies (Six Sigma preferred).
• Experience managing hourly teams and overseeing warehouse operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead a distribution center with 10-14 hourly associates.
• Oversee inbound and outbound shipping activities.
• Implement Lean or Six Sigma principles for continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Performance Management

Conflict Resolution

Education

Forklift Certification

Six Sigma Green/Black Belt Certification

Tools

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)

RF Scanning

SAP

Oracle

Microsoft Office

Job description

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Overview:

We’re supporting our client, a privately held company with a national footprint, seeking a hands-on, experienced Distribution Center Manager to lead its Ontario, California operation. This is a high-impact leadership role within a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing all aspects of warehouse operations, driving efficiency, ensuring safety, and developing a high-performing team.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead a one- to two-shift operation, Monday through Friday, with occasional weekend work based on business needs.
• Manage a team of 10–14+ hourly associates, coaching and developing staff to meet daily performance metrics and long-term goals.
• Oversee all inbound and outbound shipping activities, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and safety compliance.
• Set daily priorities and allocate resources and equipment to ensure on-time order fulfillment and shipment preparation.
• Ensure proper use and maintenance of material handling equipment; coordinate with maintenance teams or service providers when necessary.
• Monitor inventory accuracy through cycle counts and enforce standard operating procedures.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean or Six Sigma principles (prior exposure preferred).
• Maintain a clean and organized facility and enforce all safety and PPE standards.
• Execute special projects and additional responsibilities as assigned.

What We’re Looking For:

• 5–7 years of progressive experience in warehouse or distribution operations, including leadership of hourly teams.
• Familiarity with Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), RF scanning, and ERP platforms (SAP, Oracle, or similar systems).
• Valid forklift certification or the ability to obtain certification prior to or shortly after hire.
• Experience with continuous improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma or Kaizen is strongly preferred. Certification (e.g., Six Sigma Green or Black Belt) is a plus.
• Effective communication skills and a bias toward action and accountability.
• Experience with coaching, performance management, and conflict resolution; formal training in these areas is a plus.
• Union experience is helpful but not required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Excel); familiarity with third-party payroll systems is beneficial.
• Exposure to best practices in inventory control and small parcel processing is a plus.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Management and Supply Chain

• Industries

  Warehousing and Storage

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Inferred from the description for this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Disability insurance

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