Reefer Operations Manager - Lead Cold-Chain Excellence

Damco Spain SL; Elizabeth, Northern (NJ, KY); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

APM Terminals Elizabeth, the Port of New York and New Jersey's leading reefer operation, seeks a Reefer Manager to oversee all temperature-controlled cargo handling. Lead maintenance, monitoring, and regulatory compliance while collaborating with Operations, Planning, and Customer Service to ensure reliable service.

Candidate will drive lean improvements, manage KPI tracking, and mentor teams in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proven track record improving operational processes.
• Leadership experience in fast-paced terminal environments.
• Experience with refrigerated container systems and cold chain management.

Responsibilities

• Manage all reefer operations and maintenance across the terminal.
• Oversee PTI, monitoring, temperature control, fault diagnostics, and emergency actions.
• Coordinate with Operations, Planning, Vessel Ops, Yard, Rail, and Customer Service teams.
• Develop preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance programs; monitor performance.
• Ensure compliance with USDA, CBP, FDA, customer requirements and safety regs.
• Drive safety culture through observations, audits, and risk assessments.

Skills

Continuous improvement

Leadership

Reefer operations

Root cause analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Refrigeration Engineering or related field

Tools

Navis N4/XPS

Reefer monitoring platforms

Power BI

Job description

APM Terminals Elizabeth, the Port of New York and New Jersey's leading reefer operation, seeks a Reefer Manager to oversee all temperature-controlled cargo handling. Lead maintenance, monitoring, and regulatory compliance while collaborating with Operations, Planning, and Customer Service to ensure reliable service.

Candidate will drive lean improvements, manage KPI tracking, and mentor teams in a fast-paced environment.