Shipping Lead

Northern Manufacturing Co.; Kentucky; On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Northern Manufacturing Co. is seeking a Shipping Lead to oversee daily shipping operations in our Kentucky facility. You will help prioritize shipments, coordinate with production and finishing teams, and ensure all materials are properly packaged and documented for on-time delivery.

You will lead the shipping team, enforce safety and quality standards, and support training and development within the department. Strong communication and ERP experience are a plus in this hands-on leadership role.

Qualifications

• Experience in shipping/logistics in manufacturing
• Strong understanding of shipping processes and documentation
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Attention to detail and organizational skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office

Responsibilities

• Support daily shipping operations to ensure on-schedule outbound shipments
• Prioritize shipments based on customer requirements and production completion
• Coordinate with production and finishing teams for ready-to-ship materials
• Ensure packaging, labeling, crating, and documentation meet requirements
• Prepare shipping documents such as bills of lading and packing lists
• Provide day-to-day direction and training to shipping team
• Operate or obtain forklift/tow motor certification

Skills

Shipping operations

Documentation accuracy

ERP systems

Forklift certification

Leadership experience

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

ERP systems

Shipping software

Job description

Description

The Shipping Lead is responsible for supporting daily execution within the shipping department to ensure accurate, timely, and efficient delivery of finished goods. This role helps coordinate workflow, prioritize shipments, and ensure all materials are packaged, documented, and shipped in accordance with customer and company requirements.

The Shipping Lead works closely with the Finishing & Logistics Supervisor to maintain flow, address issues, and ensure alignment between production completion and shipment. This position provides day-to-day guidance to team members, reinforces expectations, and supports training and development within the department.

Daily Execution & Workflow Support

• Support daily shipping operations to ensure outbound shipments are completed accurately and on schedule
• Help prioritize shipments based on customer requirements, deadlines, and production completion
• Coordinate with production and finishing teams to ensure materials are ready for shipment
• Identify and elevate issues that may impact shipping timelines, accuracy, or customer expectations

Shipping & Documentation Accuracy

• Ensure all shipments meet requirements for packaging, labeling, crating, and documentation
• Build crates and skids and band, wrap, and secure materials for transport
• Prepare and verify shipping documents including bills of lading, packing lists, tracking information, and freight paperwork
• Process rate quotes for daily truck shipments as needed
• Assist estimating and sales with freight and shipping rate quotes as needed
• Confirm accuracy of shipped materials, including quantities, part numbers, and condition
• Support communication of shipment details, including photos and documentation as required

Leadership & Team Support

• Provide day-to-day direction, task delegation, and support to shipping team members
• Communicate priorities, expectations, and work standards clearly
• Ensure work is completed safely, efficiently, and according to schedule
• Assist in training new employees and developing skills within the department
• Reinforce accountability and a team-focused mindset

Safety & Work Environment

• Ensure all team members are following safety procedures and operating equipment safely
• Support safe loading, unloading, and material handling practices
• Maintain clean, organized shipping and receiving areas

Systems & Continuous Improvement

• Utilize shipping systems and tools (ERP, RF scanners, etc.) to ensure accurate and efficient processing
• Identify opportunities to improve packaging methods, shipping processes, and overall efficiency
• Assist in troubleshooting issues with shipping systems, carriers, or processes

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Demonstrated experience in shipping, logistics, or material handling in a manufacturing environment
• Strong understanding of shipping processes, documentation, and packaging requirements
• Self-motivated and able to prioritize work and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Effective communication skills (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with ERP systems and shipping software preferred
• Basic math and measurement comprehension
• Ability to operate or obtain certification for forklift/tow motor
• Prior leadership or lead experience preferred