Yard Manager

Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc.; Dearborn (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Universal Intermodal Services Inc. seeks an Intermodal Yard Manager to oversee daily yard operations, ensuring efficient and safe handling of containers, chassis, and trailers. Lead yard personnel, coordinate with railroads, drayage carriers, and customers to maintain smooth cargo flow.

The role requires strong leadership, knowledge of intermodal operations, and the ability to work outdoors with flexible hours, including nights and weekends as needed.

Qualifications

• Requires 3–5 years in intermodal/transport/logistics yard ops with supervisory experience.
• Strong knowledge of intermodal equipment, rail ops, and container tracking systems.
• Proficient with yard management systems (YMS) and transportation management systems (TMS).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in fast-paced, outdoor environments and on short notice.

Responsibilities

• Supervise yard operations: container placement, dispatch, receiving, inventory control.
• Lead and manage a team of yard workers, clerks, and equipment operators.
• Monitor gate activity; document inbound/outbound equipment accurately.
• Coordinate with rail providers, trucking, and customers to optimize cargo movement.
• Maintain organized yard layout; maximize efficiency and safety.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Outdoors work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics or related

High school diploma or GED

Tools

YMS

TMS

Excel

MS Office

Job description

About Universal Intermodal Services Inc.

Universal Intermodal services all major US Ports and intermodal Rail Ramps and offers domestic door-to-door drayage to and from Ports, Rails, and Customer Facilities. We operate from over 40 terminals and 11 container yards. We provide Chassis, Containers, Drayage, and Services for Imports, Exports, and Domestic moves.

The Intermodal Yard Manager oversees the daily operations of the intermodal yard to ensure efficient, safe, and cost-effective handling of containers, chassis, and trailers. This role is responsible for managing yard personnel, coordinating with railroads, drayage carriers, and internal teams to maintain a smooth flow of cargo in and out of the facility.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervise all yard operations including container placement, dispatch, receiving, and inventory control.
• Lead and manage a team of yard workers, clerks, and equipment operators, ensuring high performance and adherence to safety protocols.
• Monitor gate activity and ensure accurate documentation of inbound and outbound equipment.
• Coordinate with rail providers, trucking companies, and customers to optimize cargo movement and minimize dwell time.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant yard layout to maximize operational efficiency.
• Enforce safety standards and ensure compliance with OSHA, DOT, and company regulations.
• Track KPIs such as container turn times, yard utilization, and dwell time, and provide reports to upper management.
• Develop and implement procedures to improve operational workflow and reduce costs.
• Manage yard equipment usage, maintenance schedules, and ensure operational readiness.
• Respond promptly to service disruptions, equipment breakdowns, and other operational issues.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in intermodal, transportation, or logistics yard operations, with at least 1–2 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of intermodal equipment, rail operations, and container tracking systems.
• Proficient with yard management systems (YMS), transportation management systems (TMS), and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, outdoor environment and respond to operational demands on short notice.
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.