Sr. Manager, Terminal Operations

The Northwest Seaport Alliance; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 122,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The Northwest Seaport Alliance is seeking a Senior Manager, Terminal Operations in Tacoma to lead and optimize marine terminal operations in partnership with ocean carriers, railroads, and internal teams. You will drive safe, cost-competitive, and efficient operational solutions while guiding policy development and program implementation across the gateway.

Ideal candidates bring a minimum of six years in port or terminal operations, with union environment experience preferred, and a bachelor’s

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from a Maritime Academy or business with specialization in transportation or related discipline; four additional years may substitute for a bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum six years of progressively responsible experience in ocean carrier, port, rail, or terminal operator industries.
• Experience in a union environment and management of a unit, team or department is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate marine terminal operations with Class I railroads and the NWSA operations team to deliver best-in-class service.
• Develop and implement operations policies, procedures, programs, and best practices; monitor industry trends and innovations.
• Lead the Trucker Experience program, coordinating with external partners to improve efficiency and service delivery.
• Serve as operational lead for roadway initiatives and advise environmental, government relations, commercial, and facility development teams.
• Develop and maintain internal and external customer relationships; represent the Port with customers, operators, and industry groups.
• Manage container terminal lease matrix with Real Estate and coordinate with stakeholders to resolve issues cost-effectively.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Operations leadership

Education

Maritime Academy or business with transportation specialization

Job description

Anticipated starting salary between $121,644 - $150,216 depending on qualifications.

The Senior Manager, Terminal Operations provides leadership and management for NWSA marine terminal operations. This position partners with Alliance stakeholders in the marine terminal and railroad sectors to develop and deliver safe, cost-competitive, and efficient operational solutions. Through a proactive, collaborative, and innovative approach, the role supports improved marketplace competitiveness and the delivery of first-class service.

• Coordinates marine terminal operations, Class I railroads, and the NWSA operations team to develop and implement innovative solutions that deliver best-in-class service.
• Develops and implements operations policies, procedures, programs, and best practices; monitors industry trends and innovations in marine container terminal, roadway, and rail operations; and coordinates Alliance operations strategies with the Commercial Team and internal stakeholders to foster growth, efficiency, and financial strength.
• Leads NWSA Trucker Experience program, coordinating with WTA on Quarterly Trucker Outreach forum and other initiatives to improve efficiency and service delivery through the gateway.
• Serves as operational lead for roadway initiatives and issues, providing support and guidance to environmental, government relations, commercial, and facility development departments.
• Develops and maintains internal and external customer relationships; represents the Port with customers, terminal operators, community organizations, and industry committees.
• In cooperation with NWSA Real Estate, manages the container terminal lease matrix and coordinates with internal stakeholders, including Maintenance, and external stakeholders to resolve issues in a timely, cost-effective, and professional manner.

Bachelor’s degree from a Maritime Academy or other accredited school in business with specialization in transportation or a related discipline is required. An additional four (4) years of relevant experience may substitute for a bachelor’s degree.

A minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in positions in the ocean carrier, port, rail, or terminal operator industries is required. Experience in a union environment and management of a unit, team or department is desirable.

The desired candidate will bring a collaborative, team-oriented approach to manage processes, and will demonstrate initiative with minimal direction while knowing when to ask questions and seek input from peers and the broader team. The ability to think and act creatively and strategically to achieve the Alliance’s business goals is key to success in this role.

Must have significant knowledge of the maritime industry and port operations; bring energy, enthusiasm, and strong values; lead and implement positive changes; and demonstrate a strong commitment to operational excellence with superior oral, written, and interpersonal skills.