Terminal Operations Manager – Safety-Driven Growth

Watco Transloading; Louisville, Northern (KY, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Watco is hiring a Marine Terminal Manager in Louisville, KY, responsible for overall terminal operations, safety, and financial performance. The role leads a team, ensures regulatory compliance, and drives continuous improvement to meet customer needs.

The position emphasizes hands-on leadership, collaboration across departments, and a focus on safety and service quality. Occasional extended hours may be required to support operational needs.

Qualifications

• Must be able to pass and/or obtain all required reporting, testing, and certifications for the position and location.
• Valid Driver’s License required.
• Business degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 1 year of operational leadership experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead, train, mentor, and develop a high-performing team while fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Promote and model Watco’s Foundation and Customer First Principles, maintaining professionalism and effective communication across all levels
• Serve as a visible, hands‑on leader in the field to guide daily operations and ensure alignment with company objectives
• Ensure operational excellence and compliance with all Watco safety rules, company procedures, and local, state, and federal regulations
• Conduct and participate in regular safety meetings, audits, and job briefings; empower team members to stop unsafe actions and correct issues immediately
• Manage terminal operations to ensure the safe and efficient handling of customer cargo, optimizing resources and schedules to meet customer needs
• Oversee facility and equipment maintenance, repairs, and inspections; develop and implement continuous improvement plans for operational efficiency
• Collaborate across departments to maintain smooth workflows and resolve operational challenges promptly
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers; ensure service quality, contractual compliance, and timely communication of issues or changes
• Oversee management and financial performance of the terminal, including budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and capital planning
• Review and approve invoices and expenditures, ensuring accuracy and adherence to financial goals
• Identify and implement opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and revenue growth
• Ensure team members receive proper training, performance reviews, and ongoing development to support operational and career growth goals
• Maintain accurate documentation, records, and reports to support compliance, performance tracking, and company standards
• Participate in strategic planning and execution of initiatives to drive operational excellence, business growth, and customer satisfaction

Skills

Leadership

Safety compliance

P&L management

Customer relations

Education

Business degree or equivalent

Job description

Watco is hiring a Marine Terminal Manager in Louisville, KY, responsible for overall terminal operations, safety, and financial performance. The role leads a team, ensures regulatory compliance, and drives continuous improvement to meet customer needs.

The position emphasizes hands-on leadership, collaboration across departments, and a focus on safety and service quality. Occasional extended hours may be required to support operational needs.