Operations Labor Manager

SSA Marine; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 71,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

SSA Marine is seeking an Operations Labor Manager to lead union labor and operational teams across multiple terminals. You will direct hiring, scheduling, performance, and disciplinary actions in alignment with CBAs and company policy.

The role emphasizes safety, compliance, and efficient resource use to meet production and budget goals. You will coordinate with vessel personnel, customers, and terminal staff, ensuring accurate reporting and operational readiness while maintaining a constructive

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; management experience considered.
• Preferably 3 years managing union labor in a comparable environment.
• Valid CPR certification, driver’s license, and TWIC card required.
• Working knowledge of terminal operations, cargo stowage and safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Direct hiring, assignment, evaluation, discipline, and termination of labor personnel per policy and CBAs.
• Direct the work of foremen, supervisory clerks, and other personnel based on requirements and workforce availability.
• Interpret, administer, and enforce collective bargaining agreements in day‑to‑day operations.
• Plan workforce composition and equipment needs to execute operations safely and within budget.
• Monitor productivity and implement corrective actions; review documentation for readiness and compliance.

Skills

People leadership

Problem solving

Time management

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Terminal operating systems

Job description

The Operations Labor Manager directs and coordinates assigned operations, ensuring the safe, efficient, compliant, and cost-effective use of union labor, equipment, and operational resources. This position exercises independent judgment and management authority over labor personnel and operational staff in accordance with company policies, operational requirements, and applicable collective bargaining agreements. The Operations Labor Manager serves as a key representative of company management and is accountable for safety, security, productivity, labor relations, and operational execution.

Essential Responsibilities

Workforce Management and Labor Relations

• Exercises independent judgment and management authority over the hiring, assignment, direction, evaluation, discipline, and termination of assigned labor personnel, in accordance with company policy and applicable collective bargaining agreements.
• Directs and assigns the work of foremen, supervisory clerks, and other operational personnel based on operational requirements and workforce availability.
• Maintains working knowledge of applicable collective bargaining agreements and is responsible for their consistent interpretation, administration, and enforcement in day-to-day operations.
• Investigates workplace incidents, safety violations, and labor complaints; prepares reports and recommendations; and escalates matters to senior management as appropriate.

Operational Planning and Execution

• Determines workforce composition and equipment needs to execute operational plans safely, efficiently, and within budget.
• Manages the deployment of labor and equipment throughout the shift, adjusting assignments as conditions change to meet performance and operational commitments.
• Monitors productivity against established standards, identifies performance gaps, and implements corrective action.
• Reviews all operational documentation and verifies that equipment and gear are ready and compliant prior to the start of operations.

Safety, Security, and Compliance

• Accountable for the safety of all assigned personnel; enforces company policy, terminal operating procedures, regulatory requirements, and safe work practices.
• Plans, conducts, and documents daily safety meetings in coordination with Health, Safety & Environment personnel; addresses identified hazards.
• Ensures compliance with HAZMAT, OSHA, and other applicable regulatory requirements; reports incidents in accordance with company and regulatory protocols.
• Verifies that required PPE is worn by all personnel on the operation.
• Ensures a respectful, discrimination-free work environment and promptly addresses workplace concerns or misconduct.

Coordination and Reporting

• Serves as the primary coordination point during operations among vessel personnel, customers, agents, terminal staff, and labor.
• Supports and troubleshoots terminal operating systems; ensures accuracy of operational data.
• Completes and submits required reports, including shift production, payroll, safety, and damage reports, within established deadlines.
• Performs additional supervisory and operational duties as required.

Capabilities

• Ability to direct a large, diverse workforce in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Sound judgment and problem-solving skills under time pressure.
• Ability to plan and organize work across varied hours, shifts, and days.
• Effective communication with union workforce, management, and external stakeholders.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; equivalent management experience considered.
• Preferably 3 years managing union labor in a comparable environment.
• Valid CPR certification, driver's license, and TWIC card required.
• Working knowledge of terminal operations, cargo stowage and stability, and local union dispatching rules.
• Demonstrated leadership experience.
• Familiarity with computerized terminal operating systems.
• Knowledge of applicable safety and accident-prevention codes and regulations.

Work Environment

• Must be able to work in rotating shifts, days, evenings, and nights at multiple terminals. Schedule may be provided on short notice due to operations.
• Must be able to work in extreme outdoor temperatures, both hot and cold, extremely dusty conditions, and occasionally, conditions of high levels of noise.
• The ability to work in an environment that may be hazardous to people unable to see and hear fast-moving equipment.
• The ability to drive 20%.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Yes-Assigned union labor personnel, including foreman and supervisory clerks.

Salary Range

$71,177-78,000 per year per year

The posted compensation range is based on the applicable geographic market for the position and may vary depending on factors such as related experience and skill set. Final compensation will be determined based on these items and other relevant factors.

Our Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Eligible employees (and their families) may qualify for medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as having basic life and accidental death insurance, paid disability insurance, including paid parental leave if eligible, and an Employee Assistance Program. Employees will receive paid sick and vacation time, and company holidays if eligible. The company also offers paid bereavement leave, and paid jury duty. Eligible employees can enroll in our company's 401k plan, as well as a retirement plan. Employees will be eligible for discretionary and/or metric-based bonuses dependent on their position.